1 Kings 15:27

KJV

And Baasha the son of Ahijah, of the house of Issachar, conspired against him; and Baasha smote him at Gibbethon, which [belonged] to the Philistines; for Nadab and all Israel laid siege to Gibbethon.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Baasha {H1201} the son {H1121} of Ahijah {H281}, of the house {H1004} of Issachar {H3485}, conspired {H7194} against him; and Baasha {H1201} smote {H5221} him at Gibbethon {H1405}, which belonged to the Philistines {H6430}; for Nadab {H5070} and all Israel {H3478} laid siege {H6696} to Gibbethon {H1405}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Ba'sha the son of Achiyah, from the descendants of Yissakhar, conspired against him; and Ba'sha attacked him at Gib'ton, which belonged to the P'lishtim; for at the time Nadav and all Isra'el were besieging Gib'ton.

Berean Standard Bible

Then Baasha son of Ahijah of the house of Issachar conspired against Nadab, and Baasha struck him down at Gibbethon of the Philistines while Nadab and all Israel were besieging the city.

American Standard Version

And Baasha the son of Ahijah, of the house of Issachar, conspired against him; and Baasha smote him at Gibbethon, which belonged to the Philistines; for Nadab and all Israel were laying siege to Gibbethon.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 15:27 records a pivotal moment in the early history of the northern kingdom of Israel: the violent overthrow of King Nadab by Baasha, a commander from the tribe of Issachar. This assassination, which occurred while Nadab was besieging the Philistine city of Gibbethon, marked the abrupt end of the Jeroboam dynasty and served as a direct fulfillment of the prophetic judgment pronounced against Jeroboam's house due to their profound idolatry and leading Israel into sin. The verse starkly illustrates the volatile nature of Israel's monarchy, characterized by frequent coups and instability, in contrast to the enduring Davidic line in Judah.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the book of 1 Kings, which chronicles the history of the Israelite monarchy from the reign of Solomon through the divided kingdom. Specifically, it follows the brief and wicked reign of Nadab, son of Jeroboam I, who "walked in the way of his father and in his sin which he had committed to make Israel sin" (1 Kings 15:26). The narrative consistently emphasizes the spiritual state of the kings as the primary lens through which their reigns are judged. The immediate preceding verses establish Nadab's short two-year reign and his continuation of Jeroboam's idolatry. The event at Gibbethon provides the setting for the prophecy's fulfillment, as Baasha seizes the opportunity during a military campaign. Following this verse, [1 Kings 15:28](/1_kings/15-28 "1 Kings 15:28 - Baasha Begins His Reign") details Baasha's ascension, and [1 Kings 15:29](/1_kings/15-29 "1 Kings 15:29 - Baasha Destroys Jeroboam's House") explicitly states how Baasha "struck down all the house of Jeroboam" in fulfillment of the word of the Lord spoken by Ahijah the Shilonite. This rapid succession of events underscores the swift and decisive nature of divine judgment.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is the early period of the divided monarchy, roughly 910-909 BC. Following the schism after Solomon's death, the northern kingdom of Israel (often referred to as Ephraim) lacked the dynastic stability of the southern kingdom of Judah, which remained under the continuous rule of the Davidic line. The frequent coups and assassinations, like the one described here, were characteristic of Israel's political landscape, reflecting a lack of divine endorsement for its kings, many of whom were "set up... but not by me" as later described in [Hosea 8:4](/hosea/8-4 "Hosea 8:4 - Kings Set Up Without God's Will"). Gibbethon was a Levitical city in the territory of Dan (Joshua 21:23) but was under Philistine control at this time, indicating ongoing border conflicts and strategic importance. Sieges were common military operations, and kings often led their armies, making them vulnerable to internal plots. The concept of a "house" or dynasty was crucial in ancient Near Eastern monarchies, and the complete destruction of a royal house, as seen here, was a brutal but effective way to consolidate power and prevent future claims to the throne.
* **Key Themes:** The primary themes emerging from this verse include **Divine Judgment and Prophecy Fulfillment**, underscoring God's absolute sovereignty over human affairs and His faithfulness to His word, even when executed through human treachery. The prophecy against Jeroboam's house, delivered by Ahijah in [1 Kings 14:7-16](/1_kings/14-7 "1 Kings 14:7-16 - Ahijah's Prophecy Against Jeroboam"), is here brought to a dramatic conclusion, demonstrating that no human scheme can thwart God's ultimate purposes. Another significant theme is **Dynastic Instability and the Cycle of Sin**, particularly in the northern kingdom. Unlike the enduring Davidic covenant in Judah, Israel's monarchy was plagued by a recurring pattern of kings who "walked in the sin of Jeroboam," leading to divine disfavor and violent regime changes. This instability highlights the consequences of rejecting God's chosen path and establishing idolatrous worship. Finally, the theme of **Usurpation and Betrayal** is evident in Baasha's actions, showcasing the corrupting influence of unchecked ambition and the pursuit of power outside of God's will, a pattern that would repeat throughout Israel's history.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **conspired (Hebrew, קָשַׁר, _qashar_):** This verb signifies a secret plot, a binding together of individuals for a treasonous purpose, or a rebellion against legitimate authority. It highlights the clandestine and treacherous nature of Baasha's actions, indicating a deliberate and premeditated act of disloyalty and a subversion of the established order. The use of this word immediately frames Baasha's ascent to power as illegitimate and violent.
* **smote (Hebrew, נָכָה, _nakah_):** A common biblical verb, _nakah_ denotes striking, beating, or killing. In this context, it unequivocally means to strike a fatal blow. It conveys the brutal and decisive nature of Nadab's assassination, emphasizing the sudden and complete end of his life and reign. The directness of the word leaves no ambiguity about the violence involved.
* **siege (Hebrew, צוּר, _tsur_):** This term describes the military action of surrounding a city with hostile forces to compel its surrender. It sets the scene for Nadab's vulnerability, as his attention and resources were focused externally on the Philistine enemy. The fact that the coup occurred during a siege suggests a moment of strategic weakness for the king, exploited by his ambitious commander.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Baasha the son of Ahijah, of the house of Issachar, conspired against him":** This clause introduces Baasha, identifying him by his father's name (Ahijah, not the prophet) and his tribal affiliation (Issachar). The phrase "conspired against him" immediately establishes the treacherous nature of his actions, indicating a deliberate plot to overthrow King Nadab. This act of conspiracy highlights the political instability and moral decay within the northern kingdom's leadership.
* **"and Baasha smote him at Gibbethon, which [belonged] to the Philistines":** This part describes the violent execution of the conspiracy. Baasha "smote" (killed) Nadab, emphasizing the fatal and decisive nature of the blow. The location, Gibbethon, is crucial. It was a city in the territory of Dan but under Philistine control, suggesting a strategic military campaign by Nadab. The fact that the king was killed on the battlefield, while leading his troops, underscores his vulnerability and the opportunistic nature of Baasha's coup.
* **"for Nadab and all Israel laid siege to Gibbethon":** This final clause provides the immediate context and rationale for the assassination's timing and location. Nadab's engagement in a military siege meant his focus was divided, and his forces potentially stretched, creating an opportune moment for a commander like Baasha to act. The phrase "all Israel laid siege" indicates a national military effort, making Nadab's downfall a public and significant event for the entire kingdom.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Irony** is prominent, as King Nadab, leading a national military effort against the Philistines, is not defeated by an external enemy but by an internal betrayal from within his own ranks. The very act of asserting royal authority through military leadership becomes the stage for his downfall. There is also a strong element of **Prophecy Fulfillment**, as the narrative implicitly (and explicitly in subsequent verses) links Baasha's actions to the divine judgment pronounced against Jeroboam's house by the prophet Ahijah (1 Kings 14). This serves to underscore God's sovereignty, demonstrating that even through human sin and treachery, His word will be accomplished. The rapid succession of kings and violent coups in the northern kingdom also exemplifies **Foreshadowing**, hinting at the ongoing instability and cycles of sin and judgment that will characterize much of Israel's future history, contrasting sharply with the more stable Davidic dynasty in Judah.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The assassination of Nadab by Baasha is a profound theological statement on divine judgment and the consequences of disobedience. It powerfully illustrates God's sovereignty over human history, demonstrating that even through the wicked acts of men, His purposes are ultimately fulfilled. The swift and brutal end of Jeroboam's dynasty, initiated by Nadab's death, serves as a stark warning that rebellion against God's commands—particularly the establishment of idolatry—will not go unpunished. This event highlights the precarious nature of power when divorced from divine anointing and obedience, contrasting the instability of Israel's monarchy with the enduring covenant God made with David. It underscores that true authority and security come from aligning with God's will, not from human strength or political maneuvering.

* [1 Kings 14:10](/1_kings/14-10 "1 Kings 14:10 - Prophecy Against Jeroboam's House")
* [1 Kings 15:29](/1_kings/15-29 "1 Kings 15:29 - Baasha Destroys Jeroboam's House")
* [Hosea 8:4](/hosea/8-4 "Hosea 8:4 - Kings Set Up Without God's Will")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Kings 15:27 offers enduring lessons for believers today, reminding us of the profound and often far-reaching consequences of disobedience, especially when it involves spiritual rebellion against God. The instability and violence that plagued the northern kingdom serve as a cautionary tale about the corrupting influence of unchecked ambition and the pursuit of power outside of God's will. Even amidst the chaos of human treachery and political upheaval, the narrative powerfully demonstrates God's unwavering sovereignty. His word, spoken through His prophets, is always fulfilled, assuring us that His purposes will prevail regardless of human schemes. This should inspire both humility and confidence: humility in recognizing our dependence on God's guidance and the perils of straying from His path, and confidence in His ultimate control over all things, even when circumstances seem chaotic or unjust. We are called to seek God's kingdom and righteousness first, trusting that He orchestrates all events for His glory and our good.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the instability of the northern kingdom's monarchy, as seen in Nadab's overthrow, contrast with God's covenant with David, and what does this teach us about true leadership and divine authority?**
* **In what ways do we see the "consequences of disobedience" or the "corrupting influence of power" play out in our own lives, communities, or in society today?**
* **How can we discern God's sovereign hand at work even amidst chaos, betrayal, and injustice, and what comfort or challenge does this bring to our faith?**

### FAQ

**Who was Nadab and why was his reign so short?**

Answer: Nadab was the son and successor of Jeroboam I, the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel. His reign was remarkably short, lasting only two years (see [1 Kings 15:25](/1_kings/15-25 "1 Kings 15:25 - Nadab's Reign Begins")). His brief time on the throne was characterized by his continuation of his father's idolatrous practices, which were a direct affront to God's commands. His short reign and violent end were a direct fulfillment of the prophecy delivered by Ahijah the prophet against Jeroboam's house, foretelling its complete destruction due to their sin.

**What was the significance of Gibbethon in this event?**

Answer: Gibbethon was a city located in the tribal territory of Dan, but at the time of Nadab's reign, it was under Philistine control. Its strategic location made it a point of conflict between Israel and the Philistines. Nadab's decision to lead "all Israel" in a siege against Gibbethon presented a critical opportunity for Baasha. While the king and his forces were engaged in a demanding military campaign, their focus was external, making Nadab vulnerable to an internal plot. Thus, Gibbethon became the stage for the coup, not just a random location, but a place where the king's attention was diverted.

**How does this event fulfill prophecy?**

Answer: Nadab's assassination by Baasha and the subsequent purge of Jeroboam's entire household (as described in [1 Kings 15:29](/1_kings/15-29 "1 Kings 15:29 - Baasha Destroys Jeroboam's House")) directly fulfilled the prophecy spoken by the prophet Ahijah the Shilonite in [1 Kings 14:10-11](/1_kings/14-10 "1 Kings 14:10-11 - Ahijah's Prophecy Against Jeroboam's House"). Ahijah had foretold that God would "utterly sweep away the house of Jeroboam, as one sweeps away dung until it is all gone," and that those belonging to Jeroboam who died in the city would be eaten by dogs, and those in the open country by birds. This brutal fulfillment underscored God's faithfulness to His word and His judgment against Jeroboam's idolatry.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The turbulent narrative of 1 Kings 15:27, marked by dynastic instability, violent usurpation, and the tragic consequences of human sin, ultimately points to the profound need for a perfect and eternal King—Jesus Christ. The repeated failures of Israel's kings, who seized power through treachery and perpetuated idolatry, highlight the futility of human attempts to establish lasting peace and righteous rule apart from God's design. Unlike Nadab, whose reign ended in betrayal and death, Jesus is the true Son of David, whose kingdom "will have no end" ([Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32 "Luke 1:32-33 - Jesus' Eternal Kingdom")). He did not come to seize power through violence or conspiracy, but to lay down His life as the ultimate sacrifice for His people ([John 10:18](/john/10-18 "John 10:18 - Jesus Lays Down His Life")). The judgment upon Jeroboam's house for their idolatry foreshadows the ultimate divine judgment that all humanity faces, a judgment from which only Christ can deliver through His atoning work ([Acts 17:31](/acts/17-31 "Acts 17:31 - God Will Judge the World Through Christ")). In Christ, we find the stable, righteous, and eternal reign that Israel's kings could never provide, fulfilling the deepest longings for true justice and peace ([Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - The Prince of Peace")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Kings 14:14

Moreover the LORD shall raise him up a king over Israel, who shall cut off the house of Jeroboam that day: but what? even now.

Joshua 21:23

And out of the tribe of Dan, Eltekeh with her suburbs, Gibbethon with her suburbs,

Joshua 19:44

And Eltekeh, and Gibbethon, and Baalath,

1 Kings 16:15

¶ In the twenty and seventh year of Asa king of Judah did Zimri reign seven days in Tirzah. And the people [were] encamped against Gibbethon, which [belonged] to the Philistines.

1 Kings 16:9

And his servant Zimri, captain of half [his] chariots, conspired against him, as he was in Tirzah, drinking himself drunk in the house of Arza steward of [his] house in Tirzah.

1 Kings 15:16

And there was war between Asa and Baasha king of Israel all their days.

1 Kings 15:17

And Baasha king of Israel went up against Judah, and built Ramah, that he might not suffer any to go out or come in to Asa king of Judah.