King James Version

What Does 1 Kings 22:47 Mean?

1 Kings 22:47 in the King James Version says “There was then no king in Edom: a deputy was king.” — study this verse from 1 Kings chapter 22 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“There was then no king in Edom: a deputy was king.”

1 Kings 22:47 · King James Version

Context

45

Now the rest of the acts of Jehoshaphat, and his might that he shewed, and how he warred, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?

46

And the remnant of the sodomites, which remained in the days of his father Asa, he took out of the land.

47

There was then no king in Edom: a deputy was king.

48

Jehoshaphat made ships of Tharshish to go to Ophir for gold: but they went not; for the ships were broken at Eziongeber. made: or, had ten ships

49

Then said Ahaziah the son of Ahab unto Jehoshaphat, Let my servants go with thy servants in the ships. But Jehoshaphat would not.

Read 1 Kings 22 full chapter

Commentaries3 scholars

KJV Study CommentaryPublic Domain
There was then no king in Edom: a deputy was king.

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.

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.

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?

Compare 3 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
וּמֶלֶךְ1 of 5

“And king”

ū·me·leḵ

H4428
אֵין2 of 5

“there was no”

'ên

H369
בֶּאֱדוֹם3 of 5

“in Edom”

be·'ĕ·ḏō·wm

H123
נִצָּב4 of 5

“a deputy”

niṣ·ṣāḇ

H5324
מֶלֶךְ5 of 5

“was king”

me·leḵ

H4428

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 22:47 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 22:47 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Samuel 8:142 Kings 3:92 Kings 8:20Genesis 27:40Psalms 108:9-10Genesis 36:31-43

Places in This Verse

EdomRegion · Modern: Buseira · 30.75°N, 35.60°E111 verses across 21 books
View all places in 1 Kings 22 →

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