King James Version

What Does 2 Kings 9:21 Mean?

“And Joram said, Make ready. And his chariot was made ready. And Joram king of Israel and Ahaziah king of Judah went out, each in his chariot, and they went out against Jehu, and met him in the portion of Naboth the Jezreelite. Make ready: Heb. Bind met: Heb. found”

Context

Then he sent out a second on horseback , which came to them, and said, Thus saith the king, Is it peace? And Jehu answered, What hast thou to do with peace? turn thee behind me.

And the watchman told, saying, He came even unto them, and cometh not again: and the driving is like the driving of Jehu the son of Nimshi; for he driveth furiously. driving: or, marching furiously: Heb. in madness

And Joram said, Make ready. And his chariot was made ready. And Joram king of Israel and Ahaziah king of Judah went out, each in his chariot, and they went out against Jehu, and met him in the portion of Naboth the Jezreelite. Make ready: Heb. Bind met: Heb. found

And it came to pass, when Joram saw Jehu, that he said, Is it peace, Jehu? And he answered, What peace, so long as the whoredoms of thy mother Jezebel and her witchcrafts are so many?

And Joram turned his hands, and fled, and said to Ahaziah, There is treachery, O Ahaziah.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(21) **Make ready.**—Literally, *bind*—*i.e.*, the horses to the chariot. **And his chariot was made ready.**—Literally, *And one bound his chariot.* **Against Jehu.**—Rather, *to meet Jehu.* Joram was curious to know why his messengers had not returned, as well as why the commander-in-chief had left the seat of war. Had he suspected treachery, he would hardly have left the shelter of the walls of Jezreel, and ventured forth without a guard. **In the portion of Naboth.**—Naboth’s vineyard, which now formed part of the pleasure-grounds of the palace. (See 1Kings 21:16.)

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Kings. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Kings 9:21 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.