This verse illustrates the final disgrace of Jezebel, highlighting the certainty of divine judgment.
The prophet’s words in 2 Kings 9:37 foretell the disgraceful end of Queen Jezebel, a notorious figure from Israel’s history. Scripture says “and the corpse of Jezebel will be as dung on the face of the field in the property of Jezreel, so they cannot say, ‘This is Jezebel.’” (v.37). These words bring to a shocking close the account of Jezebel’s life, who was the wife of King Ahab of Israel (c. 874 - 853 BC). Her dangerous influence led Israel into idolatry and apostasy, violating God’s covenant. Her name has since become synonymous with deception and wickedness. The place mentioned here, Jezreel, was a city in the northern region of Israel, featuring a broad valley that saw many pivotal events in biblical history.
When the verse states “the corpse of Jezebel will be as dung” (v.37), it implies both a literal and symbolic judgment. In literal terms, her remains would be unrecognizable, scattered to such an extent that her identity could not be discerned. Symbolically, this humiliating outcome contrasts starkly with her proud, royal life. This was no random occurrence: it happened just outside Jezreel, a place where many kings of Israel once felt secure, but which also became the scene of God’s righteous judgment. This harsh outcome demonstrated that no earthly power, no matter how strong or cunning, can stand against the sovereign plans of the Lord (Proverbs 21:30).
Jezebel’s end stands as a strong reminder in Scripture to rely on God rather than trust in controlling circumstances through human power or idolatry. Like many before and after her, she faced the consequences of leading God’s people astray and arrogantly opposing His prophets. Though we see these sobering events in the Old Testament, the New Testament teaches us that God’s grace is extended through Jesus to all who repent and believe (Romans 10:13). Yet her story remains an enduring illustration of judgment, cautioning believers to heed God’s commands.
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2 Kings 9:37 meaning
The prophet’s words in 2 Kings 9:37 foretell the disgraceful end of Queen Jezebel, a notorious figure from Israel’s history. Scripture says “and the corpse of Jezebel will be as dung on the face of the field in the property of Jezreel, so they cannot say, ‘This is Jezebel.’” (v.37). These words bring to a shocking close the account of Jezebel’s life, who was the wife of King Ahab of Israel (c. 874 - 853 BC). Her dangerous influence led Israel into idolatry and apostasy, violating God’s covenant. Her name has since become synonymous with deception and wickedness. The place mentioned here, Jezreel, was a city in the northern region of Israel, featuring a broad valley that saw many pivotal events in biblical history.
When the verse states “the corpse of Jezebel will be as dung” (v.37), it implies both a literal and symbolic judgment. In literal terms, her remains would be unrecognizable, scattered to such an extent that her identity could not be discerned. Symbolically, this humiliating outcome contrasts starkly with her proud, royal life. This was no random occurrence: it happened just outside Jezreel, a place where many kings of Israel once felt secure, but which also became the scene of God’s righteous judgment. This harsh outcome demonstrated that no earthly power, no matter how strong or cunning, can stand against the sovereign plans of the Lord (Proverbs 21:30).
Jezebel’s end stands as a strong reminder in Scripture to rely on God rather than trust in controlling circumstances through human power or idolatry. Like many before and after her, she faced the consequences of leading God’s people astray and arrogantly opposing His prophets. Though we see these sobering events in the Old Testament, the New Testament teaches us that God’s grace is extended through Jesus to all who repent and believe (Romans 10:13). Yet her story remains an enduring illustration of judgment, cautioning believers to heed God’s commands.