1 Kings 13:9

For so was it charged me by the word of the LORD, saying, Eat no bread, nor drink water, nor turn again by the same way that thou camest.

For so was it charged {H6680} me by the word {H1697} of the LORD {H3068}, saying {H559}, Eat {H398} no bread {H3899}, nor drink {H8354} water {H4325}, nor turn again {H7725} by the same way {H1870} that thou camest {H1980}.

For this is the order I received through the word of ADONAI: 'Don't eat food or drink water, and don't return by the road you took when you came.'"

For this is what I was commanded by the word of the LORD: โ€˜You must not eat bread or drink water or return by the way you came.โ€™โ€

for so was it charged me by the word of Jehovah, saying, Thou shalt eat no bread, nor drink water, neither return by the way that thou camest.

Commentary

In 1 Kings 13:9, the unnamed man of God from Judah explains the strict divine mandate given to him by the Lord, which prohibits him from eating, drinking, or returning by the same path after delivering his prophetic message to King Jeroboam in Bethel. This verse is pivotal, setting the stage for the tragic events that unfold later in the chapter.

Context

This verse immediately follows the dramatic confrontation between the man of God and King Jeroboam at the idolatrous altar in Bethel. The prophet, sent by the Lord, had boldly prophesied against Jeroboam's altar and given a sign, leading to Jeroboam's hand withering and the altar splitting apart. After Jeroboam's hand is miraculously restored through the prophet's prayer, the king invites the man of God to his house for refreshment and a reward. Verse 9 is the prophet's firm refusal, rooted in a specific, non-negotiable divine command. This command highlights the Lord's absolute authority and the prophet's required adherence to it, especially given the context of Jeroboam's egregious sin of establishing golden calves for worship.

Key Themes

  • Absolute Obedience to Divine Command: The core message is the necessity of strict and unquestioning obedience to God's specific instructions. The man of God emphasizes that his actions are not his own choice, but "charged me by the word of the LORD." This highlights the importance of hearing and heeding God's voice precisely.
  • Separation and Purity in Ministry: The prohibitions against eating, drinking, and returning the same way symbolize a call to separation from the corrupt environment of Bethel and from any potential compromise with Jeroboam's idolatrous kingdom. It underscores the purity and integrity required of God's messengers.
  • The Seriousness of God's Word: The severity of the command, and the dire consequences for its eventual violation, underscore the profound seriousness with which God regards His own pronouncements. It implies a test of the prophet's faithfulness and integrity in carrying out a difficult mission. The subsequent events in the chapter dramatically illustrate the consequences of failing to uphold God's specific commands.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "charged me by the word of the LORD" uses the Hebrew verb tsavah (ืฆึธื•ึธื”), which means "to command, to appoint, to charge." It conveys a strong, authoritative, and binding instruction, emphasizing that this was not merely advice but a direct and non-negotiable directive from God Himself. The specific nature of the prohibitions (no bread, no water, no returning the same way) suggests a unique, consecrated mission, perhaps akin to a Nazirite vow in its restrictive elements, though for a temporary, specific purpose.

Significance and Application

This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of discerning and strictly adhering to God's specific will, especially when engaged in His service. For believers today, it highlights:

  • The Clarity of God's Instructions: When God gives a clear command, there is no room for negotiation or personal interpretation.
  • Avoiding Compromise: Like the prophet, we are called to maintain spiritual integrity and avoid entanglement with influences that could compromise our mission or faith, even if they appear hospitable or beneficial.
  • The Weight of Obedience: The narrative of the man of God tragically illustrates that even after fulfilling a major part of God's will, disobedience in a seemingly minor detail can lead to severe consequences. This reinforces the principle found in John 14:15, where Jesus links love for Him with keeping His commandments.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Numbers 16:26 (2 votes)

    And he spake unto the congregation, saying, Depart, I pray you, from the tents of these wicked men, and touch nothing of theirs, lest ye be consumed in all their sins.

  • 1 Samuel 15:22 (2 votes)

    And Samuel said, Hath the LORD [as great] delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey [is] better than sacrifice, [and] to hearken than the fat of rams.

  • Job 23:12 (2 votes)

    Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary [food].

  • Deuteronomy 13:13 (2 votes)

    [Certain] men, the children of Belial, are gone out from among you, and have withdrawn the inhabitants of their city, saying, Let us go and serve other gods, which ye have not known;

  • Deuteronomy 13:18 (2 votes)

    When thou shalt hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, to keep all his commandments which I command thee this day, to do [that which is] right in the eyes of the LORD thy God.

  • Romans 16:17 (2 votes)

    ยถ Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.

  • John 15:9 (2 votes)

    ยถ As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.