King James Version

What Does 1 Kings 22:19 Mean?

1 Kings 22:19 in the King James Version says “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 ...” — study this verse from 1 Kings chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“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.”

1 Kings 22:19 · KJV

Context

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.

20

And the LORD said, Who shall persuade Ahab, that he may go up and fall at Ramothgilead ? And one said on this manner, and another said on that manner. persuade: or, deceive

21

And there came forth a spirit, and stood before the LORD, and said, I will persuade him.

Read 1 Kings 22 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
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.

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 · 11 words
וַיֹּאמֶר1 of 11

“And he said”

way·yō·mer

H559
לָכֵן2 of 11

“Therefore”

lā·ḵên

H3651
שְׁמַע3 of 11

“hear”

šə·ma'

H8085
דְּבַר4 of 11

“the word”

də·ḇar

H1697
יְהוָה5 of 11

“of the LORD”

Yah·weh

H3068
רָאִיתִי6 of 11

“I saw”

rā·'î·ṯî

H7200
אֶת7 of 11

“-”

'eṯ

H853
יְהוָה8 of 11

“the LORD”

Yah·weh

H3068
יֹשֵׁב9 of 11

“sitting”

yō·šêḇ

H3427
עַל10 of 11

“on”

'al

H5921
כִּסְאוֹ11 of 11

“His throne”

kis·'ō·w

H3678

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 22:19 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 22:19 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Job 2:1Job 1:6Daniel 7:9-10Isaiah 6:1-3Psalms 103:20-21Matthew 18:10

Test Your Knowledge

1 Kings 22 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter1 Kings Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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