2 Kings 10:23

KJV

And Jehu went, and Jehonadab the son of Rechab, into the house of Baal, and said unto the worshippers of Baal, Search, and look that there be here with you none of the servants of the LORD, but the worshippers of Baal only.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Jehu {H3058} went {H935}, and Jehonadab {H3082} the son {H1121} of Rechab {H7394}, into the house {H1004} of Baal {H1168}, and said {H559} unto the worshippers {H5647} of Baal {H1168}, Search {H2664}, and look {H7200} that there be {H3426} here with you none of the servants {H5650} of the LORD {H3068}, but the worshippers {H5647} of Baal {H1168} only.

Complete Jewish Bible

Yehu and Y'honadav the son of Rekhav entered the house of Ba'al and said to the worshippers of Ba'al, "Search to see that none of the servants of ADONAI is here with you, only worshippers of Ba'al."

Berean Standard Bible

Next, Jehu and Jehonadab son of Rechab entered the temple of Baal, and Jehu said to the servants of Baal, “Look around to see that there are no servants of the LORD here among you—only servants of Baal.”

American Standard Version

And Jehu went, and Jehonadab the son of Rechab, into the house of Baal; and he said unto the worshippers of Baal, Search, and look that there be here with you none of the servants of Jehovah, but the worshippers of Baal only.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Kings 10:23 captures a pivotal and chilling moment in Jehu's divinely ordained purge of Baal worship from Israel. Having meticulously orchestrated a deceptive gathering of all Baal's prophets, priests, and devotees under the guise of a grand sacrifice, Jehu, accompanied by the steadfast monotheist Jehonadab, enters the house of Baal to ensure that only those exclusively dedicated to the Canaanite deity are present, setting the stage for a dramatic and decisive act of judgment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at the climax of Jehu's violent but divinely sanctioned purge against the house of Ahab and the pervasive Baal worship in Israel. Preceding this, Jehu has been anointed by a prophet of Elisha with the commission to destroy Ahab's dynasty and eradicate Baalism ([2 Kings 9:6-10](/2_kings/9-6 "2 Kings 9:6-10 - Jehu's Anointing")). He has already executed King Joram of Israel and King Ahaziah of Judah, along with Jezebel ([2 Kings 9:24-37](/2_kings/9-24 "2 Kings 9:24-37 - Deaths of Joram, Ahaziah, and Jezebel")), and then systematically eliminated Ahab's seventy sons and forty-two relatives of Ahaziah ([2 Kings 10:1-14](/2_kings/10-1 "2 Kings 10:1-14 - Jehu's Slaughter of Ahab's Descendants")). His meeting and alliance with Jehonadab the Rechabite ([2 Kings 10:15-16](/2_kings/10-15 "2 Kings 10:15-16 - Jehu and Jehonadab")) immediately precedes this verse, highlighting Jehu's zeal and commitment to Yahweh's cause. The strategic deception of gathering all Baal worshippers under the pretense of a "great sacrifice to Baal" ([2 Kings 10:18-19](/2_kings/10-18 "2 Kings 10:18-19 - Jehu's Deception")) leads directly to the meticulous inspection described in verse 23, which then sets the stage for the mass slaughter of Baal's followers and the destruction of his temple in the subsequent verses ([2 Kings 10:24-27](/2_kings/10-24 "2 Kings 10:24-27 - Destruction of Baal Worship")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The northern kingdom of Israel, particularly its capital Samaria, had been deeply corrupted by Baal worship since the reign of Ahab and Jezebel ([1 Kings 16:31-33](/1_kings/16-31 "1 Kings 16:31-33 - Ahab and Baal Worship")). Baal, a Canaanite storm and fertility god, was seen as a direct rival to Yahweh, the God of Israel. His worship often involved syncretism, sacred prostitution, and sometimes child sacrifice, fundamentally undermining the covenant relationship between God and Israel. Jehu's coup was not merely a change of dynasty but a divinely mandated religious reformation aimed at eradicating this pervasive idolatry, which had become the state religion. Jehonadab the Rechabite, a leader of a nomadic group known for their strict adherence to a simple, Yahweh-focused lifestyle and rejection of settled agricultural practices (which were often associated with Baal worship), serves as a symbolic figure of pure Yahwism, lending moral and spiritual authority to Jehu's actions in the eyes of zealous monotheists. The public nature of this purge in Samaria, the heartland of Baal's influence, underscores the scale of the spiritual battle and the decisive nature of Jehu's mission.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Kings and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it exemplifies **Divine Judgment against Idolatry**, showcasing God's unwavering commitment to His covenant and His severe condemnation of spiritual apostasy. Jehu acts as God's instrument, executing a judgment that reflects the holiness of Yahweh, who will not share His glory with false gods ([Isaiah 42:8](/isaiah/42-8 "Isaiah 42:8 - God's Jealousy for His Glory")). Secondly, it underscores the **Exclusivity of Worship** demanded by Yahweh. The meticulous separation of "servants of the LORD" from "worshippers of Baal" vividly illustrates the absolute dichotomy between true worship and idolatry, a fundamental principle reiterated throughout the Mosaic Law, particularly in the first commandment ([Exodus 20:3](/exodus/20-3 "Exodus 20:3 - The First Commandment")). Thirdly, the narrative highlights **Zeal for the LORD**, particularly Jehu's intense commitment to his mission, even if it involves ruthless methods ([2 Kings 10:16](/2_kings/10-16 "2 Kings 10:16 - Jehu's Zeal")). Finally, it demonstrates the theme of **Cunning and Strategy** employed in the execution of God's will, where Jehu's deceptive tactics are portrayed as effective means to achieve a righteous end, albeit a controversial one.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Baal (Hebrew, _Ba'al_):** This term literally means "lord" or "master" and was a common title for various local deities throughout the ancient Near East, particularly in Canaan. In the context of Israel, "Baal" most often refers to the storm and fertility god worshipped by the Canaanites, believed to control rain, thunder, and agricultural prosperity. His worship often involved elaborate rituals, including sacred prostitution (qedeshot) and, at times, child sacrifice, all of which were anathema to Yahwism. The conflict between the worship of Yahweh and Baal was a central spiritual struggle for Israel, representing a fundamental choice between covenant fidelity and syncretistic apostasy.
* **Servants of the LORD (Hebrew, _'avade YHWH_):** This phrase refers to those who are loyal and devoted to Yahweh, the God of Israel. In contrast to the "worshippers of Baal," these are individuals who uphold the covenant and reject idolatry. Jehu's command to "Search, and look that there be here with you none of the servants of the LORD" emphasizes the absolute distinction between those who serve the true God and those who serve false gods. It highlights the principle that true worship of Yahweh is exclusive and demands complete allegiance, allowing for no compromise or dual loyalty.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Jehu went, and Jehonadab the son of Rechab, into the house of Baal,"**: This clause sets the scene for the final act of Jehu's purge against Baal worship. Jehu's entry into the very sanctuary of the false god signifies his direct confrontation with the heart of Israel's idolatry. The presence of Jehonadab, a figure known for his unwavering commitment to Yahweh and his rejection of Canaanite ways, underscores the theological weight and legitimacy of Jehu's mission from a Yahwistic perspective. It also serves as a witness to the purity of the coming purge, ensuring no true worshipper of Yahweh is caught in the trap.
* **"and said unto the worshippers of Baal,"**: This indicates Jehu's direct address to the assembled devotees. His words are not a private command but a public declaration, part of his elaborate deception. He maintains the pretense of a grand sacrifice to Baal, thereby securing the cooperation and presence of his unsuspecting victims. This direct address also highlights Jehu's authority and control over the situation, as he dictates the terms of engagement within Baal's own domain.
* **"Search, and look that there be here with you none of the servants of the LORD, but the worshippers of Baal only."**: This is the crucial command that reveals the meticulous nature of Jehu's plan. It is a chilling instruction, demanding a thorough internal vetting by the Baal worshippers themselves, ensuring their own isolation. The explicit exclusion of "servants of the LORD" underscores the absolute dichotomy Jehu is enforcing: there is no room for syncretism or dual allegiance. Only those fully committed to Baal are to remain, making the impending judgment a precise and targeted act against the devotees of the false god, while ostensibly protecting those loyal to Yahweh.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent literary devices. **Irony** is prominent, as Jehu, the agent of Yahweh's judgment, enters the house of Baal under the guise of a devout worshipper, using the very religious fervor of his victims against them. His call for exclusive attendance is a perverse mirroring of Yahweh's demand for exclusive worship, turning the idolaters' own principle against them. **Deception** is the primary strategic device, meticulously crafted by Jehu to gather and isolate the Baal worshippers. This calculated cunning highlights Jehu's ruthless efficiency in executing his divine commission. Furthermore, the stark **Contrast** between "servants of the LORD" and "worshippers of Baal" emphasizes the absolute spiritual divide and the uncompromising nature of God's demand for exclusive devotion. Finally, the meticulous "Search, and look" serves as a form of **Foreshadowing**, subtly hinting at the thorough and inescapable judgment that is about to befall those who remain.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly illustrates God's unyielding demand for exclusive worship and His severe judgment against idolatry. The meticulous separation of worshippers underscores the absolute incompatibility of Yahwism with any form of syncretism. God's holiness requires complete devotion, and the worship of false gods is not merely an alternative belief but a direct affront to His sovereignty and covenant fidelity. While Jehu's methods are specific to his historical context as an instrument of divine judgment, the underlying theological principle remains: God will not share His glory, and spiritual compromise ultimately leads to devastating consequences. This passage serves as a stark reminder of the seriousness with which God views spiritual adultery and the necessity of wholehearted allegiance to Him alone.

* [Exodus 20:3](/exodus/20-3 "Exodus 20:3 - The First Commandment")
* [Deuteronomy 6:4-5](/deuteronomy/6-4 "Deuteronomy 6:4-5 - The Shema")
* [1 Kings 18:21](/1_kings/18-21 "1 Kings 18:21 - Elijah's Challenge to Choose")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In our contemporary world, while we do not engage in physical purges of idolaters, the spiritual principles embedded in 2 Kings 10:23 remain profoundly relevant. This passage calls us to a radical self-examination of our own allegiances. Are there "Baals" in our lives—anything that competes for the ultimate devotion due to God alone? These modern idols may not be carved images but can manifest as insatiable desires for wealth, power, comfort, approval, or even the worship of self. The meticulous separation Jehu enforced challenges us to cultivate spiritual discernment, to "search and look" within our own hearts and lives, identifying and rooting out anything that compromises our exclusive devotion to Christ. It reminds us that God demands wholehearted worship, not a divided heart. This passage is a powerful call to spiritual purity, urging us to recognize the severe consequences of spiritual compromise and to cultivate an unyielding zeal for the Lord in every aspect of our lives, ensuring that our worship is truly "only" for Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "Baals" or competing loyalties might exist in my life today that demand my time, energy, or affection more than God?**
* **How does the concept of God's demand for exclusive worship challenge my understanding of commitment and devotion?**
* **In what ways can I "search and look" within my own spiritual life to identify and remove anything that compromises my allegiance to Christ?**

### FAQ

**Why did Jehu use deception to gather the worshippers of Baal?**

Answer: Jehu's use of deception, presenting the gathering as a "great sacrifice to Baal," was a strategic maneuver to achieve his divinely appointed mission of eradicating Baal worship in Israel. By feigning zealous devotion to Baal, he ensured that all the prophets, priests, and worshippers of Baal would assemble in one place, making it possible to eliminate them comprehensively and efficiently. This tactic prevented them from scattering or organizing resistance, allowing for a decisive and complete purge as mandated by God ([2 Kings 9:6-10](/2_kings/9-6 "2 Kings 9:6-10 - Jehu's Commission")). While deception is generally condemned in scripture, in this specific context, it is presented as a means by which God's judgment against a deeply entrenched and idolatrous system was executed.

**What is the significance of Jehonadab the son of Rechab being present with Jehu?**

Answer: Jehonadab's presence with Jehu ([2 Kings 10:15](/2_kings/10-15 "2 Kings 10:15 - Jehu and Jehonadab")) is highly significant. The Rechabites were known for their strict adherence to a nomadic, austere lifestyle and their unwavering loyalty to Yahweh, rejecting the settled agricultural practices and associated idolatry common in Canaan. Jehonadab's presence served as a powerful endorsement of Jehu's actions from a perspective of pure Yahwism. It underscored that Jehu's purge was not merely a political coup but a righteous, divinely sanctioned act of religious purification. Jehonadab's zeal for the Lord ([2 Kings 10:16](/2_kings/10-16 "2 Kings 10:16 - Jehu's Zeal for the Lord")) aligned perfectly with Jehu's mission, lending moral and spiritual authority to the severe judgment being executed against Baal worship.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Jehu's actions represent a violent, historical purge of idolatry under the Old Covenant, they powerfully foreshadow the spiritual purification brought about by Jesus Christ. Jehu's meticulous separation of "servants of the LORD" from "worshippers of Baal" finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ's work of establishing a people exclusively devoted to God. Jesus, the true [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), came not to destroy physical temples but to cleanse the spiritual temple of the human heart, calling for worship [in spirit and truth](/john/4-23 "John 4:23 - Worship in Spirit and Truth"). He confronted and cast out the spiritual "Baals" of sin, death, and the devil, demanding undivided allegiance to God the Father. Through His atoning sacrifice, Christ makes it possible for us to be truly separated from the dominion of spiritual idolatry and to become [a holy nation, a people for God's own possession](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Chosen People"), zealous for good works. His return will bring the final and complete judgment against all forms of spiritual rebellion and idolatry, establishing His kingdom where [every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord](/philippians/2-10 "Philippians 2:10 - Jesus is Lord"), ensuring that only true worshippers remain in His presence.

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

Matthew 13:41

The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity;

Matthew 25:32

And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth [his] sheep from the goats:

Matthew 25:33

And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.

Matthew 13:30

Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn.