1 Kings 16:1

KJV

¶ Then the word of the LORD came to Jehu the son of Hanani against Baasha, saying,

KJV (with Strong's)

Then the word {H1697} of the LORD {H3068} came to Jehu {H3058} the son {H1121} of Hanani {H2607} against Baasha {H1201}, saying {H559},

Complete Jewish Bible

The word of ADONAI came to Yehu the son of Hanani against Ba'sha:

Berean Standard Bible

Then the word of the LORD came to Jehu son of Hanani against Baasha, saying:

American Standard Version

And the word of Jehovah came to Jehu the son of Hanani against Baasha, saying,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Kings 16:1 marks a pivotal moment in the narrative of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, introducing the divine judgment against King Baasha. This verse signifies the direct intervention of the Lord through the prophet Jehu, son of Hanani, initiating a new phase of accountability for the monarchy. It underscores God's unwavering commitment to His covenant and His readiness to confront the persistent idolatry and wickedness that characterized the reigns of Israel's kings, setting the stage for the downfall of Baasha's dynasty and highlighting the consistent pattern of divine oversight in Israel's history.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the detailed account of King Baasha's twenty-four-year reign, which is summarized in [1 Kings 15:16-34](/1_kings/15-16-34 "1 Kings 15:16-34 - Baasha's Reign"). Baasha, from the tribe of Issachar, ascended to the throne through a violent coup, assassinating Nadab, son of Jeroboam, and subsequently eradicating Jeroboam's entire household. This act, ironically, fulfilled the prophecy of Ahijah the Shilonite against Jeroboam's dynasty, as recorded in [1 Kings 15:27-29](/1_kings/15-27-29 "1 Kings 15:27-29 - Baasha's Coup and Fulfillment of Prophecy"). Despite being an instrument of God's judgment against Jeroboam, Baasha himself failed to learn from the tragic history of his predecessor. Instead, he perpetuated and even intensified the very sins of idolatry and rebellion against the Lord that had brought about Jeroboam's downfall, as explicitly stated in [1 Kings 15:34](/1_kings/15-34 "1 Kings 15:34 - Baasha's Continued Sin"). Thus, [1 Kings 16:1](/1_kings/16-1 "1 Kings 16:1 - The Word of the LORD to Jehu") serves as the divine response to Baasha's persistent wickedness, signaling that his reign, like Jeroboam's, would not escape divine scrutiny and judgment, thereby continuing the cyclical pattern of sin and divine retribution in the Northern Kingdom.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period of the Divided Monarchy (Israel in the North, Judah in the South) was characterized by profound political instability, frequent coups, and a recurring cycle of idolatry, particularly in the Northern Kingdom. Kings often rose to power through violence and maintained their rule by consolidating power, frequently at the expense of covenant fidelity. The worship of Yahweh was routinely syncretized with, or outright replaced by, the worship of Baal and Asherah, especially through the golden calves established by Jeroboam I at Dan and Bethel, as detailed in [1 Kings 12:28-30](/1_kings/12-28-30 "1 Kings 12:28-30 - Jeroboam's Idolatry"). In this volatile environment, prophets served as God's primary spokesmen, often confronting powerful monarchs with divine messages of warning, judgment, or instruction. The mention of Jehu as "the son of Hanani" is significant; Hanani himself was a prophet who courageously rebuked King Asa of Judah for his reliance on Syria instead of the Lord, as recounted in [2 Chronicles 16:7-10](/2_chronicles/16-7-10 "2 Chronicles 16:7-10 - Hanani Rebukes King Asa"), suggesting a family lineage dedicated to fearless and unwavering prophetic ministry.
* **Key Themes:** This verse introduces and reinforces several crucial themes prevalent throughout the books of Kings. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Accountability**, emphasizing that no king, regardless of their political power or initial role in God's plan, is exempt from divine judgment for their actions, particularly their covenant infidelity. Secondly, it powerfully asserts **The Authority of God's Word**, as "the word of the LORD came" directly to Jehu, underscoring that the subsequent message is not human opinion but an authoritative, undeniable pronouncement from the sovereign God. This theme is foundational to understanding the prophetic books as well, such as [Jeremiah 1](/jeremiah/1 "Jeremiah 1 - Jeremiah's Call and Commission"). Thirdly, it foreshadows the **Consequences of Disobedience**, setting the stage for the severe repercussions that Baasha's dynasty will face due to his persistent wickedness and his failure to turn from the sins of Jeroboam, as prophesied in [1 Kings 16:2-4](/1_kings/16-2-4 "1 Kings 16:2-4 - Prophecy Against Baasha"). Finally, the appearance of Jehu underscores the **Crucial Role of the Prophet** as God's messenger, acting as a moral and theological check on the monarchy and calling the nation to account for its covenant fidelity.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Word (Hebrew, _dâbâr'_):** This term, often translated "word," carries a much broader semantic range than just spoken utterance. From the root meaning "to speak," it can also mean "thing," "matter," "affair," "event," or "command." In the context of "the word of the LORD came," it signifies a divine decree or revelation that is not merely linguistic but carries inherent power and certainty, implying that what God declares will inevitably come to pass. It points to the active, dynamic nature of God's communication, which shapes reality and dictates outcomes.
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** This is the sacred, covenantal name of God, often transliterated as Yahweh. It emphasizes God's self-existence, eternality, and His covenant relationship with Israel. The use of this name here underscores that the message delivered by Jehu originates from the sovereign, covenant-keeping God of Israel, not from a lesser deity or human authority. It highlights the ultimate source of authority and judgment in the narrative.
* **Baasha (Hebrew, _Baʻshâʼ'_):** Derived from an unused root meaning "to stink," this name literally means "offensiveness." While the etymology of a name does not always directly reflect the character of its bearer in biblical narrative, in this case, it ironically foreshadows the offensive and wicked reign of King Baasha. His actions, particularly his perpetuation of idolatry, were indeed an offense to the Lord, leading directly to the divine judgment pronounced against him in this verse.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then the word of the LORD came":** This opening phrase is a classic prophetic formula, signaling a direct, authoritative, and unsolicited divine revelation. It immediately establishes the divine origin and absolute authority of the message that follows, indicating that what is about to be spoken is not human opinion or political maneuvering, but the very decree of God. This phrase sets the tone for a pronouncement of ultimate significance and consequence, highlighting God's active engagement in human history.
* **"to Jehu the son of Hanani":** This identifies the specific recipient of God's word. Jehu is not merely a messenger but a divinely chosen vessel. The inclusion of his father's name, Hanani, a known prophet who courageously confronted King Asa of Judah ([2 Chronicles 16:7](/2_chronicles/16-7 "2 Chronicles 16:7 - Hanani Rebukes King Asa")), adds a layer of credibility and perhaps implies a hereditary prophetic calling or a family known for its unwavering courage in speaking truth to power. This detail authenticates Jehu's prophetic office and prepares the audience for a message of similar gravity.
* **"against Baasha, saying":** This specifies the target and purpose of the divine message. The word "against" (Hebrew _ʾel_) indicates opposition and judgment. The message is not general but specifically directed at King Baasha, holding him personally accountable for his actions and the spiritual state of the nation under his rule. The concluding "saying" introduces the direct divine pronouncement that follows in the subsequent verses, detailing the nature and extent of God's judgment against Baasha and his dynasty.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs a **Prophetic Formula**, "the word of the LORD came to..." This is a ubiquitous literary and theological device in the Old Testament, serving to authenticate the divine origin and absolute authority of the message being delivered. It immediately signals to the reader that the subsequent words are not human invention but direct revelation from Yahweh, carrying His weight and certainty. This formula underscores the **Divine Sovereignty** over human affairs, even over kings and nations, demonstrating that God is actively involved in history and holds rulers accountable. Furthermore, the verse functions as **Foreshadowing**, setting the stage for the detailed prophecy of judgment against Baasha's house that immediately follows, building narrative tension and preparing the reader for the unfolding of divine justice and the continued cycle of disobedience and judgment in the Northern Kingdom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
First Kings 16:1 serves as a powerful testament to God's active involvement in the affairs of human history, particularly in holding His chosen people and their leaders accountable to the covenant. It underscores the principle that divine judgment is not arbitrary but a just response to persistent disobedience and idolatry, even for those who might initially be used by God for His purposes (as Baasha was in fulfilling the prophecy against Jeroboam). The "word of the LORD" coming directly to a prophet highlights the consistent role of prophetic ministry as God's voice of truth, warning, and judgment in a world prone to rebellion. This divine initiative demonstrates God's unwavering commitment to His righteousness and His covenant relationship with Israel, even when they stray, affirming that He is a God who sees, speaks, and acts in history.

* [Amos 3:7](/amos/3-7 "Amos 3:7 - God Reveals His Plan to His Servants")
* [Jeremiah 1:9-10](/jeremiah/1-9-10 "Jeremiah 1:9-10 - God's Commission to Jeremiah")
* [Hebrews 4:12](/hebrews/4-12 "Hebrews 4:12 - The Living and Active Word of God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This verse reminds us that God is actively engaged with human history and holds all individuals, especially those in positions of leadership, accountable for their actions. It challenges us to consider the profound implications of our choices, recognizing that our decisions, particularly those that impact others, are weighed in the divine balance. Just as Baasha was confronted by God's word through Jehu, we are called to be attentive to God's voice in our lives, primarily through His written Word, the Bible, and through faithful spiritual guidance. This verse encourages us to live lives of integrity and obedience, understanding that persistent rebellion against God's revealed will ultimately leads to undesirable consequences. It also offers comfort, knowing that God, in His perfect justice, will ultimately address all unrighteousness, providing hope for those who suffer under unjust leadership and a clear warning for those who wield power irresponsibly. It calls us to examine our own lives for areas where we might be fulfilling one aspect of God's will while neglecting others, urging us toward holistic faithfulness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the phrase "the word of the LORD came" challenge my understanding of God's active involvement in the world today?**
* **In what ways might I, like Baasha, be fulfilling a purpose for God yet simultaneously walking in disobedience in other areas of my life?**
* **What are the responsibilities that come with any position of leadership or influence I hold, and how can I ensure I am stewarding them faithfully before God?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater attentiveness to God's "word" in my own life, whether through Scripture, prayer, or the counsel of godly individuals?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of "the word of the LORD came"?**

Answer: This phrase, a common prophetic formula in the Old Testament (Hebrew: _davar YHWH hayah el_), signifies a direct, undeniable, and authoritative divine revelation. It means that the message delivered by the prophet is not from human initiative, opinion, or political agenda, but originates directly from God Himself. It carries His authority, certainty, and power, indicating that what God declares will inevitably come to pass. This formula highlights God's active involvement in human affairs and His sovereign control over history, emphasizing that the prophetic message is a divine imperative, not a human suggestion. It is seen throughout the prophetic books, such as when [the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah](/jeremiah/1-2 "Jeremiah 1:2 - The Word of the LORD Came to Jeremiah") or [to Ezekiel](/ezekiel/1-3 "Ezekiel 1:3 - The Word of the LORD Came to Ezekiel").

**Who was Jehu, son of Hanani, and why was he chosen?**

Answer: Jehu, son of Hanani, was a prophet commissioned by God to deliver a message of judgment against King Baasha of Israel. He is distinct from the later King Jehu who reigned over Israel. His father, Hanani, was also a prophet who famously confronted King Asa of Judah for his unfaithfulness, as recorded in [2 Chronicles 16:7](/2_chronicles/16-7 "2 Chronicles 16:7 - Hanani Rebukes King Asa"). This suggests that Jehu came from a family known for its prophetic ministry and courage in speaking truth to power, even to kings. He was chosen not because he sought the office, but because "the word of the LORD came" to him, indicating divine initiative and selection for this specific, critical task of pronouncing judgment against a wicked king. His family background likely prepared him for the difficult and dangerous task of confronting a monarch.

**Why was King Baasha being judged by God?**

Answer: King Baasha was being judged by God primarily for his persistent wickedness and idolatry, despite having been used by God to fulfill a prophecy against the house of Jeroboam. While Baasha assassinated Nadab and eradicated Jeroboam's lineage as prophesied by Ahijah ([1 Kings 15:27-29](/1_kings/15-27-29 "1 Kings 15:27-29 - Baasha's Coup and Fulfillment of Prophecy")), he himself "walked in the way of Jeroboam and in his sin, which he made Israel to sin" ([1 Kings 15:34](/1_kings/15-34 "1 Kings 15:34 - Baasha's Continued Sin")). This refers to his continuation of the calf worship established by Jeroboam at Dan and Bethel, which led the entire nation into idolatry and rebellion against the Lord. Baasha's judgment underscores the principle that God holds kings accountable for their personal sin and for leading their people astray from the covenant, demonstrating that even those used by God are not exempt from His righteous standards.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The appearance of "the word of the LORD" coming to a prophet like Jehu in [1 Kings 16:1](/1_kings/16-1 "1 Kings 16:1 - The Word of the LORD to Jehu") foreshadows the ultimate and perfect embodiment of God's Word in the person of Jesus Christ. While prophets delivered God's message in fragments and through human vessels, Jesus is the very **Logos**, the Word made flesh, as declared in [John 1:1-3](/john/1-1-3 "John 1:1-3 - The Word Was God") and [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"). He is not merely a messenger of God's word, but the living, breathing, and complete revelation of God Himself. Just as Jehu's word brought judgment against Baasha's sin, Christ's coming brought both judgment against sin and the offer of salvation. He is the one through whom God speaks His final and decisive word to humanity, as explicitly stated in [Hebrews 1:1-2](/hebrews/1-1-2 "Hebrews 1:1-2 - God Has Spoken Through His Son"). In Him, the themes of divine accountability and the consequences of disobedience are fully realized, as He bore the judgment for humanity's sin on the cross, offering redemption to all who believe. Thus, the transient prophetic word delivered to Jehu points forward to the eternal and saving Word, Jesus, who perfectly fulfills God's righteous demands and offers ultimate reconciliation between God and humanity.

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

2 Chronicles 19:2

And Jehu the son of Hanani the seer went out to meet him, and said to king Jehoshaphat, Shouldest thou help the ungodly, and love them that hate the LORD? therefore [is] wrath upon thee from before the LORD.

2 Chronicles 20:34

Now the rest of the acts of Jehoshaphat, first and last, behold, they [are] written in the book of Jehu the son of Hanani, who [is] mentioned in the book of the kings of Israel.

1 Kings 16:7

And also by the hand of the prophet Jehu the son of Hanani came the word of the LORD against Baasha, and against his house, even for all the evil that he did in the sight of the LORD, in provoking him to anger with the work of his hands, in being like the house of Jeroboam; and because he killed him.

2 Chronicles 16:7

¶ And at that time Hanani the seer came to Asa king of Judah, and said unto him, Because thou hast relied on the king of Syria, and not relied on the LORD thy God, therefore is the host of the king of Syria escaped out of thine hand.

2 Chronicles 16:10

Then Asa was wroth with the seer, and put him in a prison house; for [he was] in a rage with him because of this [thing]. And Asa oppressed [some] of the people the same time.

1 Kings 15:33

In the third year of Asa king of Judah began Baasha the son of Ahijah to reign over all Israel in Tirzah, twenty and four years.