King James Version

What Does 1 Kings 22:1 Mean?

1 Kings 22:1 in the King James Version says “And they continued three years without war between Syria and Israel.” — study this verse from 1 Kings chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And they continued three years without war between Syria and Israel.”

1 Kings 22:1 · KJV

Context

1

And they continued three years without war between Syria and Israel.

2

And it came to pass in the third year, that Jehoshaphat the king of Judah came down to the king of Israel.

3

And the king of Israel said unto his servants, Know ye that Ramoth in Gilead is ours, and we be still, and take it not out of the hand of the king of Syria? still: Heb. silent from taking it

Read 1 Kings 22 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And they continued three years without war between Syria and Israel.

This verse contributes to the broader narrative of ahab's death and jehoshaphat's alliance, 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.

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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.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this passage illustrate the importance of complete obedience to God's word without compromise?
  2. What does Elijah's ministry reveal about God's character and His commitment to His covenant people?
  3. How does this verse point toward or prepare for the coming of Christ and His eternal kingdom?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 9 words
וַיֵּשְׁבוּ1 of 9

“And they continued”

way·yê·šə·ḇū

H3427
שָׁלֹשׁ2 of 9

“three”

šā·lōš

H7969
שָׁנִים3 of 9

“years”

šā·nîm

H8141
אֵין4 of 9

“without”

'ên

H369
מִלְחָמָה5 of 9

“war”

mil·ḥā·māh

H4421
בֵּין6 of 9

“between”

bên

H996
אֲרָם7 of 9

“Syria”

'ă·rām

H758
וּבֵין8 of 9

“and”

ū·ḇên

H996
יִשְׂרָאֵל9 of 9

“Israel”

yiś·rā·'êl

H3478

Study 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 22:1 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 22:1 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Kings 20:34

Places in This Verse

Syria 1Region · Modern: Damascus · 33.51°N, 36.31°E89 verses across 10 books
View all places in 1 Kings 22 →

Test Your Knowledge

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