King James Version

What Does 1 Kings 22:17 Mean?

1 Kings 22:17 in the King James Version says “And he said, I saw all Israel scattered upon the hills, as sheep that have not a shepherd: and the LORD said, These have...” — study this verse from 1 Kings chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And he said, I saw all Israel scattered upon the hills, as sheep that have not a shepherd: and the LORD said, These have no master: let them return every man to his house in peace.”

1 Kings 22:17 · KJV

Peace

Context

15

So he came to the king. And the king said unto him, Micaiah, shall we go against Ramothgilead to battle, or shall we forbear? And he answered him, Go, and prosper: for the LORD shall deliver it into the hand of the king.

16

And the king said unto him, How many times shall I adjure thee that thou tell me nothing but that which is true in the name of the LORD?

17

And he said, I saw all Israel scattered upon the hills, as sheep that have not a shepherd: and the LORD said, These have no master: let them return every man to his house in peace.

18

And the king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat, Did I not tell thee that he would prophesy no good concerning me, but evil?

19

And he said, Hear thou therefore the word of the LORD: I saw the LORD sitting on his throne, and all the host of heaven standing by him on his right hand and on his left.

Read 1 Kings 22 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And he said, I saw all Israel scattered upon the hills, as sheep that have not a shepherd: and the LORD said, These have no master: let them return every man to his house in peace.

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 temple represents God's dwelling among His people and foreshadows Christ as Immanuel ('God with us').

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
וַיֹּאמֶר1 of 9

“And he said”

way·yō·mer

H559
רָאִיתִי2 of 9

“I saw”

rā·'î·ṯî

H7200
אֶת3 of 9

“-”

'eṯ

H853
כָּל4 of 9

“all”

kāl

H3605
יִשְׂרָאֵל5 of 9

“Israel”

yiś·rā·'êl

H3478
נְפֹצִים6 of 9

“scattered”

nə·p̄ō·ṣîm

H6327
אֶל7 of 9

“on”

'el

H413
הֶהָרִים8 of 9

“the hills”

he·hā·rîm

H2022
כַּצֹּאן9 of 9

“as sheep”

kaṣ·ṣōn

H6629

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 22:17 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 22:17 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Numbers 27:17Matthew 9:361 Kings 22:34-362 Chronicles 18:16-17Zechariah 13:7Ezekiel 34:4-6

Test Your Knowledge

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