King James Version
What Does 1 Kings 20:2 Mean?
“And he sent messengers to Ahab king of Israel into the city, and said unto him, Thus saith Benhadad,”
1 Kings 20:2 · KJV
Context
1
And Benhadad the king of Syria gathered all his host together: and there were thirty and two kings with him, and horses, and chariots: and he went up and besieged Samaria, and warred against it.
2
And he sent messengers to Ahab king of Israel into the city, and said unto him, Thus saith Benhadad,
3
Thy silver and thy gold is mine; thy wives also and thy children, even the goodliest, are mine.
4
And the king of Israel answered and said, My lord, O king, according to thy saying, I am thine, and all that I have.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryAnd he sent messengers to Ahab king of Israel into the city, and said unto him, Thus saith Ben-hadad,
This verse contributes to the broader narrative of ahab's wars with syria, within the book's focus on prophetic ministry of Elijah confronting Baalism.
The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theological message about kingship, covenant, and faithfulness to Yahweh. This verse demonstrates the consequences when God's people—especially their leaders—either follow or forsake the covenant established at Sinai.
This verse contributes to the broader narrative of ahab's wars with syria, within the book's focus on prophetic ministry of Elijah confronting Baalism.
The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theological message about kingship, covenant, and faithfulness to Yahweh. This verse demonstrates the consequences when God's people—especially their leaders—either follow or forsake the covenant established at Sinai.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
First Kings was written during or after the Babylonian exile (6th century BCE), reflecting on the monarchy period (10th-9th centuries BCE) to explain why the kingdoms fell. Elijah's ministry (c. 860-850 BCE) occurred during Ahab's reign, a time of intense spiritual crisis in Israel.
Ancient Near Eastern kingship ideology viewed kings as divine representatives responsible for maintaining cosmic order through right worship. Archaeological discoveries from sites like Megiddo, Hazor, and Samaria confirm the historical reliability of 1 Kings' descriptions of building projects and administrative structures.
Ancient Near Eastern kingship ideology viewed kings as divine representatives responsible for maintaining cosmic order through right worship. Archaeological discoveries from sites like Megiddo, Hazor, and Samaria confirm the historical reliability of 1 Kings' descriptions of building projects and administrative structures.
Reflection Questions
- How does this passage illustrate the importance of complete obedience to God's word without compromise?
- What does Elijah's ministry reveal about God's character and His commitment to His covenant people?
- How does this verse point toward or prepare for the coming of Christ and His eternal kingdom?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 13 wordsמַלְאָכִ֛ים2 of 13
“messengers”
H4397a messenger; specifically, of god, i.e., an angel (also a prophet, priest or teacher)
יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל6 of 13
“of Israel”
H3478he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
הָעִֽירָה׃7 of 13
“into the city”
H5892a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
ל֗וֹ9 of 13
H0כֹּ֚ה10 of 13
H3541properly, like this, i.e., by implication, (of manner) thus (or so); also (of place) here (or hither); or (of time) now
בֶּן12 of 13
H0Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 1 Kings. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
1 Kings 20:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 1 Kings 20:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge