Commentary on 2 Kings 9:35

Bible Verse: "But when they went to bury her, they found no more of her than the skull, and the feet, and the palms of her hands."

Overview

This verse presents the grim aftermath of the death of Jezebel, a figure infamous within the biblical narrative for her idolatry, her revolting scheming, and her persecution of the prophets. Her demise is not only indicative of divine judgment but also serves as a somber reminder of the consequences of a life lived in opposition to God. The account of her burial and the shocking discovery by her mourners encapsulates themes of judgment, retribution, and the fleeting nature of earthly power.

The Significance of Jezebel's Death

Matthew Henry notes that the death of Jezebel was the fulfillment of the prophecies made against her. It serves as a testament to God’s justice and the inevitable downfall of those who oppose Him. The manner of her death, thrown from a window, highlights the disgrace and humiliation that accompany her fall. Such disgrace is reflected in where and how the true enemies of God ultimately end up: unburied and dishonored.

Physical Remains and Symbolism

When treasure seekers went to recover Jezebel's body for burial, they found only her skull, feet, and hands. Albert Barnes provides a deep exploration of the significance of the remnants left behind. The skull represents her prideful thoughts and scheming nature, the hands symbolize her wicked deeds and manipulative actions, and the feet represent the way she led others astray. Together, they encapsulate her life of treachery and idolatry, revealing the futility of her pursuits.

Divine Judgment and Remembrance

Adam Clarke comments on the complete absence of her body, suggesting that God’s judgment was comprehensive; her legacy was to be remembered not with reverence but as a warning. The refusal to give Jezebel a fitting burial mirrors the curse laid upon her by the prophet Elisha, as her end was intended to erase her memory from the earth. This brings forth the theological assertion that God's judgments are not just punitive but are also meant as a deterrent to those who might embark on the path of wickedness.

Theological Themes

• Judgment: The death of Jezebel illustrates the principle of divine justice. Her ruthless actions towards God’s prophets and her promotion of idolatry elicited God's wrath, which culminated in her horrendous fate.
• Legacy of Evil: Her partial remains serve as a powerful metaphor for the ruinous legacy left by those who oppose God. In life, her influence led others into sin; in death, God ensured her legacy was one of ignominy and horror.
• Warning to Leaders: Jezebel's story serves as a cautionary tale for leaders within the church and society today. Her example illustrates the disastrous consequences of pride and moral corruption.
• Hope in Justice: For believers, the story is a source of hope that evil does not prevail forever. Although it may seem at times that wickedness goes unpunished, this passage affirms the ultimate triumph of God’s justice.

Applications for Today

For pastors, theologians, and students, this passage serves as a reminder to reflect on one's own actions and the potential consequences of a life not fully surrendered to God. In a world that often glorifies notoriety and self-serving actions, the fate of Jezebel stands as a stark contrast to the path of righteousness that believers are called to pursue.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 2 Kings 9:35 is rich with implications concerning the nature of sin, the reality of divine judgment, and the eternal significance of our earthly choices. The combined insights from the commentaries of Henry, Barnes, and Clarke give us a holistic view of the theological, moral, and practical lessons we can extract from this sombre incident. Ultimately, it emphasizes the weight of accountability before God and the importance of leading lives worthy of our calling.