1 Kings 20:6

KJV

Yet I will send my servants unto thee to morrow about this time, and they shall search thine house, and the houses of thy servants; and it shall be, [that] whatsoever is pleasant in thine eyes, they shall put [it] in their hand, and take [it] away.

KJV (with Strong's)

Yet I will send {H7971} my servants {H5650} unto thee to morrow {H4279} about this time {H6256}, and they shall search {H2664} thine house {H1004}, and the houses {H1004} of thy servants {H5650}; and it shall be {H1961}, that whatsoever is pleasant {H4261} in thine eyes {H5869}, they shall put {H7760} it in their hand {H3027}, and take it away {H3947}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But I am going to send my servants to you tomorrow around this time; they will ransack your house and the houses of your servants; and whatever they see that they like they will seize and remove.'"

Berean Standard Bible

But about this time tomorrow I will send my servants to search your palace and the houses of your servants. They will seize and carry away all that is precious to you.’”

American Standard Version

but I will send my servants unto thee to-morrow about this time, and they shall search thy house, and the houses of thy servants; and it shall be, that whatsoever is pleasant in thine eyes, they shall put it in their hand, and take it away.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 1 Kings 20:6, King Ben-Hadad of Aram delivers a chilling message to King Ahab of Israel, escalating his demands beyond an initial agreement. This verse reveals Ben-Hadad's intent to send his servants the following day to meticulously search Ahab's palace and his officials' homes, seizing not just general wealth, but specifically "whatsoever is pleasant" in their eyes. This act was designed to inflict maximum humiliation, stripping the Israelites of their dignity, personal treasures, and any semblance of sovereignty, demonstrating Ben-Hadad's absolute contempt and desire for total subjugation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a pivotal moment in the unfolding narrative of the Aramean siege of Samaria. Immediately preceding it, Ben-Hadad had sent an envoy demanding Ahab's silver, gold, wives, and children, to which Ahab, in a desperate bid for peace, surprisingly assented, declaring, "My lord, O king, I am thine, and all that I have" [1 Kings 20:4](/1-kings/20-4 "1 Kings 20:4 - Ahab's Initial Submission"). However, Ben-Hadad's follow-up message in [1 Kings 20:5-6](/1-kings/20-5 "1 Kings 20:5-6 - Ben-Hadad's Escalated Demands") reveals his true, more insidious intent. His initial demand was a test of submission; this second demand is a declaration of total, humiliating plunder, designed to leave Ahab and his people utterly stripped of personal value and dignity. This escalation forces Ahab to consult with the elders of Israel, leading to their collective refusal of Ben-Hadad's new terms, setting the stage for divine intervention and an unexpected turn of events in [the subsequent verses of 1 Kings 20](/1-kings/20 "1 Kings 20 - The War with Aram").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The ancient Near East was characterized by frequent warfare, with sieges being a common tactic to subdue cities and kingdoms. When a city fell or a king surrendered, the conquering power often imposed harsh terms, including tribute, vassalage, and plunder. However, the specific demand to seize "whatsoever is pleasant in thine eyes" goes beyond standard war spoils. It reflects a deliberate strategy of psychological warfare and ultimate humiliation. In this cultural context, a king's possessions, especially personal and cherished items, were deeply intertwined with his honor, status, and even the perceived favor of his gods. To have these items arbitrarily taken by foreign servants, rather than as part of a formal treaty or tribute, was an act of profound degradation, signaling the complete loss of sovereignty and personal agency. Samaria, as the capital of Israel, was a symbol of national identity, and its potential plunder would have been a devastating blow to the morale of the entire kingdom.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within [1 Kings 20](/1-kings/20 "1 Kings 20 - The War with Aram") and the broader book. It highlights the **arrogance and hubris of unchecked power**, exemplified by Ben-Hadad, whose escalating demands demonstrate a contempt for any agreed-upon terms and a desire for absolute domination. This pride often precedes a fall, a theme echoed throughout Scripture, as seen in [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Before Destruction"). Furthermore, the verse underscores the **vulnerability of the subdued** and the precarious position of a nation or individual who has yielded to an enemy, becoming entirely subject to their arbitrary will. It also introduces the theme of **divine intervention in unexpected ways**, as God, despite Ahab's wickedness, ultimately delivers Israel from Ben-Hadad's tyranny, demonstrating His sovereignty over nations and His commitment to His covenant people, even when they are undeserving, as revealed later in [1 Kings 20:13-21](/1-kings/20-13 "1 Kings 20:13-21 - God's Deliverance of Israel").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **search (Hebrew, _chāphaś_):** This verb implies a thorough, meticulous, and intrusive investigation, often with the intent to uncover hidden things or to leave nothing untouched. It suggests a violation of privacy and personal space, emphasizing the invasive nature of Ben-Hadad's intended plunder, far beyond a simple collection of tribute. It conveys a sense of forceful inspection and discovery.
* **pleasant (Hebrew, _machmad_):** Derived from a root meaning "to desire, covet," _machmad_ refers to something highly desirable, precious, delightful, or cherished. It goes beyond mere material wealth to encompass items of sentimental value, personal significance, or aesthetic beauty that bring joy or comfort. By demanding "whatsoever is pleasant," Ben-Hadad aimed to inflict maximum psychological and emotional distress, stripping the Israelites not just of their riches, but of their most beloved and personal possessions, thereby maximizing their humiliation.
* **take it away (Hebrew, _lāqaḥ_):** While a common verb meaning "to take, seize, receive," in this context, _lāqaḥ_ signifies a complete and irreversible appropriation. There is no negotiation, no promise of return, and no compensation. It underscores the absolute power dynamic, where the items are simply taken by force, cementing the subjugation and demonstrating the utter lack of recourse for the victims.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Yet I will send my servants unto thee to morrow about this time":** This opening clause establishes the immediacy and certainty of Ben-Hadad's threat. The phrase "to morrow about this time" conveys a sense of impending doom, allowing no time for counter-negotiation or preparation, thereby increasing the psychological pressure on Ahab and his people. It highlights the aggressor's total control over the timeline and the situation.
* **"and they shall search thine house, and the houses of thy servants":** This specifies the scope of the intended plunder. It is not limited to the royal palace but extends to the residences of Ahab's officials. This demonstrates Ben-Hadad's intent to dismantle the entire power structure and dignity of Israel, from the king down through his administration, ensuring a comprehensive and humiliating subjugation of the entire leadership class.
* **"and it shall be, [that] whatsoever is pleasant in thine eyes, they shall put [it] in their hand, and take [it] away":** This climactic clause reveals the nature and extent of the plunder. The focus on "whatsoever is pleasant in thine eyes" signifies a targeted assault on personal value and cherished possessions, not just general wealth. The phrase "put it in their hand, and take it away" emphasizes the arbitrary, forceful, and complete seizure of these items, leaving no room for resistance or appeal. It is a declaration of absolute dominance and a deliberate act of stripping away dignity and personal identity.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several potent literary devices to convey the gravity of Ben-Hadad's threat. **Hyperbole** is evident in the sweeping nature of the demand—"whatsoever is pleasant in thine eyes"—suggesting an intent to seize every single desirable item, an exaggerated claim designed to instill terror and demonstrate absolute power. This extreme demand also functions as **foreshadowing**, hinting at the eventual downfall of Ben-Hadad himself, whose unchecked arrogance and pride will lead to his defeat, a common biblical motif. Furthermore, there is a subtle **irony** in Ahab's initial, seemingly pragmatic concession to Ben-Hadad's first demands (1 Kings 20:4) only leading to a far more oppressive and humiliating second demand. The "pleasant" items themselves serve as **symbolism**, representing not merely material wealth but the very dignity, personal security, and sovereignty of Ahab and his kingdom. Their arbitrary seizure symbolizes the complete violation and subjugation of Israel.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse vividly portrays the dangers of unchecked pride and the escalating nature of evil when confronted with perceived weakness. Ben-Hadad's arrogance, believing himself invincible, leads him to overstep all boundaries, demanding not just tribute but total humiliation. Theologically, this serves as a powerful reminder that God opposes the proud and brings low those who exalt themselves, often through unexpected means. Even when His people, like Ahab, are disobedient, God's sovereignty can intervene to protect His larger purposes and demonstrate His power over worldly rulers. The stripping away of "pleasant" things can also prompt reflection on what truly holds value in our lives, contrasting fleeting material possessions with eternal spiritual treasures.

* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Goes Before Destruction")
* [James 4:6](/james/4-6 "James 4:6 - God Opposes the Proud")
* [Psalm 75:6-7](/psalm/75-6 "Psalm 75:6-7 - God Judges and Exalts")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The chilling demand of Ben-Hadad in 1 Kings 20:6 offers profound lessons for contemporary life. It compels us to consider the nature of compromise and when yielding to pressure can embolden an aggressor, leading to greater loss of dignity and freedom. There are times when a firm stand, even against overwhelming odds, is necessary to preserve what is truly valuable, whether it be personal integrity, spiritual conviction, or communal well-being. For those in positions of power, Ben-Hadad's hubris serves as a stark warning against the intoxicating effects of unchecked authority and the temptation to exploit the vulnerable. True leadership, whether in a family, workplace, or nation, is marked by humility, justice, and a respect for the dignity of others, not by ruthless exploitation. Furthermore, the focus on "whatsoever is pleasant" prompts us to examine our own attachments. What are the "pleasant things" in our lives that we hold most dear? Are they material possessions, status, comfort, or something deeper? This passage challenges us to consider if our ultimate security and joy are found in earthly treasures, which can be stripped away, or in the unshakeable kingdom of God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **When faced with escalating demands or oppressive situations, how do we discern when to compromise and when to stand firm?**
* **What are the "pleasant things" in my life that I might be clinging to, and how does this passage challenge my perspective on their true value?**
* **In what ways might unchecked pride manifest in my own life or in the institutions I am part of, and how can I guard against it?**
* **How does the sovereignty of God, even in seemingly hopeless situations, encourage me to trust Him with my own vulnerabilities?**

### FAQ
**Why did Ben-Hadad escalate his demands after Ahab had already agreed to the initial terms?**

Answer: Ben-Hadad's escalation was a calculated move to assert absolute dominance and humiliate Ahab and Israel completely. Ahab's initial, swift concession likely revealed a perceived weakness or fear, which Ben-Hadad exploited. The first demand was a test of submission; the second, more egregious demand to take "whatsoever is pleasant" was designed to strip the Israelites of their dignity, personal identity, and any remaining sense of sovereignty, demonstrating Ben-Hadad's contempt and leaving no doubt as to who held ultimate power. This was not about practical spoils as much as it was about psychological warfare and total subjugation, pushing Ahab to a point of no return, as seen in [1 Kings 20:7-8](/1-kings/20-7 "1 Kings 20:7-8 - Ahab Consults with Elders and Refuses").

**What was the deeper significance of taking "whatsoever is pleasant in thine eyes" beyond mere plunder?**

Answer: The phrase "whatsoever is pleasant in thine eyes" (Hebrew: _machmad ‘êneyka_) signifies far more than just general wealth or material possessions. It refers to items that are highly desirable, cherished, or hold deep personal, sentimental, or aesthetic value. By specifically targeting these items, Ben-Hadad aimed to inflict maximum psychological and emotional pain. It was an act of profound humiliation, designed to strip the Israelites not just of their riches but of their most beloved comforts, personal memories, and sources of joy. This deliberate violation of personal space and dignity was intended to crush their spirit and underscore their utter powerlessness, serving as a powerful symbol of complete conquest and degradation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The oppressive demands of Ben-Hadad, seeking to strip Ahab and his people of all dignity and cherished possessions, find their ultimate spiritual parallel in the tyranny of sin and death over humanity. Humanity, in its fallen state, is vulnerable and enslaved, much like Ahab initially was to Ben-Hadad's escalating threats. We are born into a condition where the "pleasant things" of our lives—our innocence, our peace, our very life—are subject to the relentless demands of sin, which ultimately leads to death, the ultimate stripping away of all earthly possessions and even life itself. However, in Christ, we find the ultimate deliverer. Jesus, the true King, did not yield to the demands of the oppressor. Instead, He willingly allowed Himself to be stripped of everything—His divine glory ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humiliation")), His earthly possessions, His reputation, and ultimately His very life on the cross. He was the one whose "pleasantness" was taken away, despised and rejected by men. Yet, through this ultimate act of self-emptying and sacrifice, He conquered sin and death, triumphing over the powers and authorities that held humanity captive ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). He became the true "pleasant thing" for those who believe, offering an eternal inheritance and dignity that can never be taken away, a treasure far surpassing any earthly possession ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, Author and Perfecter of Faith")). In Him, we receive true freedom from the tyranny of sin and the promise of a glorious future where no oppressor can ever again demand what is "pleasant in our eyes."

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

Isaiah 44:9

¶ They that make a graven image [are] all of them vanity; and their delectable things shall not profit; and they [are] their own witnesses; they see not, nor know; that they may be ashamed.

1 Samuel 13:19

Now there was no smith found throughout all the land of Israel: for the Philistines said, Lest the Hebrews make [them] swords or spears:

1 Samuel 13:21

Yet they had a file for the mattocks, and for the coulters, and for the forks, and for the axes, and to sharpen the goads.

Jeremiah 25:34

Howl, ye shepherds, and cry; and wallow yourselves [in the ashes], ye principal of the flock: for the days of your slaughter and of your dispersions are accomplished; and ye shall fall like a pleasant vessel.

2 Samuel 24:14

And David said unto Gad, I am in a great strait: let us fall now into the hand of the LORD; for his mercies [are] great: and let me not fall into the hand of man.

Genesis 27:15

And Rebekah took goodly raiment of her eldest son Esau, which [were] with her in the house, and put them upon Jacob her younger son:

2 Kings 18:31

Hearken not to Hezekiah: for thus saith the king of Assyria, Make [an agreement] with me by a present, and come out to me, and [then] eat ye every man of his own vine, and every one of his fig tree, and drink ye every one the waters of his cistern: