1 Kings 22:2

KJV

And it came to pass in the third year, that Jehoshaphat the king of Judah came down to the king of Israel.

KJV (with Strong's)

And it came to pass in the third {H7992} year {H8141}, that Jehoshaphat {H3092} the king {H4428} of Judah {H3063} came down {H3381} to the king {H4428} of Israel {H3478}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then, in the third year, Y'hoshafat the king of Y'hudah came down to the king of Isra'el.

Berean Standard Bible

However, in the third year, Jehoshaphat king of Judah went down to visit the king of Israel,

American Standard Version

And it came to pass in the third year, that Jehoshaphat the king of Judah came down to the king of Israel.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Kings 22:2 marks a critical juncture in the narrative of the divided monarchy, detailing the visit of Jehoshaphat, the pious King of Judah, to Ahab, the notoriously wicked King of Israel, in Samaria. This seemingly diplomatic encounter, occurring after three years of relative peace, sets the stage for a significant and ultimately disastrous military alliance against Aram, highlighting the complex and often fraught relationship between the Northern and Southern Kingdoms and foreshadowing the consequences of an unholy partnership.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the conclusion of a period of peace between Israel and Aram (Syria), specifically referencing the "third year" after Ahab's controversial treaty with Ben-Hadad, as detailed in [1 Kings 20:34](/1_kings/20-34 "1 Kings 20:34 - Ahab's Treaty with Ben-Hadad"). The preceding chapters in [1 Kings](/1_kings/20 "1 Kings 20 - Ahab's Wars with Aram") have established Ahab's character as a king who consistently defies God's prophets and commands, even showing leniency to an enemy God intended for destruction. The arrival of Jehoshaphat, a king commended for his devotion to the Lord (e.g., [1 Kings 22:43](/1_kings/22-43 "1 Kings 22:43 - Jehoshaphat's Righteous Reign")), abruptly shifts the narrative focus from Ahab's individual transgressions to an inter-kingdom alliance, directly leading into the pivotal confrontation with false prophets and the tragic battle for Ramoth-Gilead.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period of the divided monarchy saw fluctuating relations between the Northern Kingdom of Israel and the Southern Kingdom of Judah, ranging from open hostility to uneasy alliances. This particular meeting occurs during a time when both kingdoms faced external threats, particularly from Aram. Kings often formed alliances through visits, treaties, and even dynastic marriages, as seen later with Ahab and Jehoshaphat's families. Samaria, the capital of Israel, was a center of Baal worship under Ahab and Jezebel, contrasting sharply with Jerusalem, the capital of Judah, where Jehoshaphat was actively promoting the worship of Yahweh. The "coming down" from Jerusalem to Samaria reflects the geographical reality, as Jerusalem is situated at a higher elevation. This diplomatic visit was a common practice for solidifying political and military agreements in the ancient Near East, but its spiritual implications, given the moral disparity between the two kings, were profound.

* **Key Themes:** The primary themes emerging from this verse and its immediate context include the **dangers of unequal alliances**, particularly when a righteous leader partners with a wicked one. Jehoshaphat's visit to Ahab exemplifies the temptation for godly individuals or nations to compromise their convictions for political or military expediency, a theme echoed in [2 Chronicles 19:2](/2_chronicles/19-2 "2 Chronicles 19:2 - Jehu's Rebuke of Jehoshaphat"). The verse also subtly introduces the theme of **divine judgment and prophetic authority**, as this alliance will soon lead to Ahab's confrontation with Micaiah, the true prophet of Yahweh, and his subsequent demise, fulfilling earlier divine pronouncements against him (e.g., [1 Kings 20:42](/1_kings/20-42 "1 Kings 20:42 - The Prophet's Word to Ahab")). Furthermore, it underscores the ongoing **inter-kingdom relations** and the complex dynamics between Israel and Judah, which often impacted their national destinies.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **third year (Hebrew, _shalishit'_):** This temporal marker is crucial, indicating a period of three years of peace following the conflict described in [1 Kings 20](/1_kings/20 "1 Kings 20 - Ahab's Wars with Aram"). Specifically, it refers to the duration of the treaty Ahab made with Ben-Hadad of Aram. This detail establishes a backdrop of relative calm before the storm, setting the stage for the renewed conflict over Ramoth-Gilead. It also subtly highlights Ahab's continued defiance, as his earlier mercy to Ben-Hadad was condemned by a prophet, and this "peace" is merely a temporary reprieve before God's judgment on Ahab's house.
* **came down (Hebrew, יָרַד, _yarad'_):** While literally describing the geographical descent from the higher elevation of Jerusalem (Judah's capital) to the lower Samaria (Israel's capital), this verb can carry symbolic weight. In biblical narrative, "going down" can sometimes imply a spiritual or moral decline, or a movement towards a place of less divine favor. While not explicitly stated here, the subsequent narrative reveals the spiritual danger Jehoshaphat faced by aligning himself with Ahab, suggesting a subtle foreshadowing of the moral compromise inherent in this journey.
* **king of Judah (Jehoshaphat) / king of Israel (Ahab):** This juxtaposition is central to the verse's significance. Jehoshaphat is consistently portrayed as a king who "walked in the ways of his father David" and "sought the LORD" ([1 Kings 22:43](/1_kings/22-43 "1 Kings 22:43 - Jehoshaphat's Righteous Reign"); [2 Chronicles 17:3-6](/2_chronicles/17-3 "2 Chronicles 17:3-6 - Jehoshaphat's Good Reign")). Ahab, conversely, is described as doing "more evil in the sight of the LORD than all who were before him" ([1 Kings 16:30](/1_kings/16-30 "1 Kings 16:30 - Ahab's Wickedness")). The meeting of these two diametrically opposed figures immediately signals a tension that will drive the subsequent narrative, underscoring the stark moral and spiritual divide between the two kingdoms.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And it came to pass in the third year":** This opening phrase establishes the specific temporal setting for the events that follow. It links the current narrative to previous events, particularly the three-year peace treaty between Israel and Aram (Syria) that followed Ahab's victory over Ben-Hadad. This period of quietude is now drawing to a close, setting the stage for renewed conflict and the unfolding of God's judgment.
* **"that Jehoshaphat the king of Judah":** This identifies the first key protagonist. Jehoshaphat, the son of Asa, was a king of the Southern Kingdom of Judah, known for his generally righteous reign and his efforts to promote the worship of Yahweh among his people. His presence in the Northern Kingdom is significant, as it indicates a diplomatic overture or alliance between the two long-divided kingdoms.
* **"came down to the king of Israel":** This describes Jehoshaphat's action and destination. He traveled from Jerusalem, the capital of Judah, to Samaria, the capital of Israel, to meet with Ahab. The phrase "came down" is a geographical descriptor, as Samaria was at a lower elevation than Jerusalem. This meeting signifies a formal visit, likely for the purpose of forging or strengthening an alliance, which will soon lead to a joint military campaign against Ramoth-Gilead.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several key literary devices that enrich its meaning and foreshadow the unfolding narrative. **Foreshadowing** is prominent, as the seemingly benign diplomatic visit immediately signals that significant events are about to transpire, particularly an alliance that will lead to conflict and judgment. The meeting of Jehoshaphat and Ahab creates a powerful **Juxtaposition** between a relatively righteous king and an exceedingly wicked one, highlighting the moral and spiritual tension inherent in their alliance. This contrast sets up the dramatic conflict between true and false prophecy that follows. Furthermore, the verse functions as a **Narrative Bridge**, smoothly transitioning the reader from the preceding period of peace and Ahab's individual transgressions to the collective action of the two kingdoms and the subsequent divine judgment that falls upon Ahab.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Kings 22:2, by detailing the alliance between Jehoshaphat and Ahab, introduces a profound theological theme concerning the dangers of spiritual compromise and the wisdom of discerning partnerships. While political alliances were common, the text subtly critiques the formation of such a bond between a king who sought the Lord and one who actively promoted idolatry and defied God's prophets. This alliance, driven by political expediency rather than divine counsel, ultimately leads Jehoshaphat into a perilous situation and contributes to Ahab's downfall. It underscores the principle that associations, especially those that compromise one's spiritual integrity, can have severe consequences, even for those with good intentions.

* [2 Chronicles 18:1](/2_chronicles/18-1 "2 Chronicles 18:1 - Jehoshaphat's Alliance with Ahab")
* [2 Chronicles 19:2](/2_chronicles/19-2 "2 Chronicles 19:2 - Jehu's Rebuke of Jehoshaphat")
* [2 Corinthians 6:14](/2_corinthians/6-14 "2 Corinthians 6:14 - Do Not Be Unequally Yoked")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The brief account in 1 Kings 22:2 serves as a powerful cautionary tale for believers today, prompting us to critically examine the nature of our associations and alliances. Jehoshaphat, a king commended for his faithfulness, found himself drawn into a dangerous partnership with Ahab, a king notorious for his wickedness. This illustrates that even those with sincere intentions can be led astray or into precarious situations when they align themselves with those who do not share their fundamental spiritual values or moral compass. The narrative challenges us to consider whether our friendships, business partnerships, or even social affiliations are drawing us closer to God's will or subtly compromising our walk of faith. Discernment is paramount; we are called to be in the world, but not of it, carefully choosing our closest companions and commitments to ensure they align with our devotion to Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do our personal and professional associations influence our spiritual walk and decision-making?**
* **What criteria should guide our choices in forming close alliances or partnerships, especially when spiritual convictions differ?**
* **In what ways might we be tempted to compromise our values for perceived benefits, much like Jehoshaphat's political alliance?**
* **How can we cultivate discernment to recognize and avoid "unequally yoked" situations in our lives?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "the third year" mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: The "third year" refers to the duration of the peace treaty between King Ahab of Israel and Ben-Hadad of Aram (Syria), which was established after Ahab's victory in [1 Kings 20](/1_kings/20 "1 Kings 20 - Ahab's Wars with Aram"). This period of three years of relative calm sets the stage for the renewed conflict over Ramoth-Gilead, which Ahab intends to reclaim. It signifies the end of a diplomatic lull and the beginning of a new phase of military action, directly leading to the events of [1 Kings 22](/1_kings/22 "1 Kings 22 - Ahab's Death at Ramoth-Gilead").

**What was the relationship between the kingdoms of Judah and Israel at this specific time?**

Answer: At this point, the relationship between Judah and Israel was one of uneasy alliance, a departure from earlier periods of open hostility following the division of the kingdom. Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, had forged ties with Ahab, the king of Israel, which included a marriage alliance between their families (Jehoshaphat's son Jehoram married Ahab's daughter Athaliah, though this is mentioned later in [2 Kings 8:18](/2_kings/8-18 "2 Kings 8:18 - Jehoram's Wicked Reign")). Jehoshaphat's visit to Ahab in Samaria signifies a strengthening of this alliance, likely for mutual defense or shared military objectives, specifically the campaign to reclaim Ramoth-Gilead from Aram.

**Why did Jehoshaphat, a righteous king, visit the wicked King Ahab?**

Answer: Jehoshaphat's visit to Ahab was primarily for political and military reasons. The narrative strongly implies a desire to strengthen the alliance between the two Hebrew kingdoms, possibly to present a united front against the common enemy, Aram. While Jehoshaphat was a righteous king who sought the Lord, his decision to ally with Ahab, who was notoriously wicked, demonstrates a political pragmatism that overlooked spiritual discernment. This alliance, despite its seemingly practical benefits, is later condemned by the prophet Jehu in [2 Chronicles 19:2](/2_chronicles/19-2 "2 Chronicles 19:2 - Jehu's Rebuke of Jehoshaphat"), highlighting the spiritual dangers of such an "unequal yoke."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The seemingly mundane diplomatic visit in 1 Kings 22:2, setting the stage for an ill-fated alliance, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus. While Jehoshaphat, a righteous king, compromised his spiritual integrity by aligning with the wicked Ahab, Christ stands as the perfect King who never compromises with sin or evil. He is the true [King of Judah](/matthew/2-2 "Matthew 2:2 - King of the Jews"), whose kingdom is not of this world ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - My Kingdom Is Not of This World")), and therefore, He never forms unholy alliances with the powers of darkness or the systems of this fallen world. Unlike Ahab, who surrounded himself with false prophets, Jesus is the [Prophet like Moses](/deuteronomy/18-15 "Deuteronomy 18:15 - A Prophet Like Me"), the very [Word of God made flesh](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh"), who speaks only truth and leads His people in righteousness. The tragic outcome of Ahab and Jehoshaphat's alliance underscores humanity's tendency to seek earthly solutions through compromise, whereas Christ offers a perfect, uncompromising salvation through His sacrifice. He unites His people, not through political expediency, but through His atoning blood, forming a new covenant community that is called to be separate from the world's corruption ([2 Corinthians 6:17-18](/2_corinthians/6-17 "2 Corinthians 6:17-18 - Come Out From Them")). In Christ, we find the ultimate King who perfectly embodies righteousness and wisdom, never needing to "come down" to the level of ungodly alliances, but rather drawing all people up to Himself ([John 12:32](/john/12-32 "John 12:32 - I Will Draw All People to Myself")).

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 15:24

And Asa slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David his father: and Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his stead.

1 Kings 22:1

¶ And they continued three years without war between Syria and Israel.

Matthew 12:40

For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.

2 Chronicles 18:1

¶ Now Jehoshaphat had riches and honour in abundance, and joined affinity with Ahab.

2 Chronicles 18:27

And Micaiah said, If thou certainly return in peace, [then] hath not the LORD spoken by me. And he said, Hearken, all ye people.

1 Kings 22:44

And Jehoshaphat made peace with the king of Israel.

1 Kings 22:41

¶ And Jehoshaphat the son of Asa began to reign over Judah in the fourth year of Ahab king of Israel.