1 KINGS 21

AHAB + JEZEBEL MURDER THEIR NEIGHBOR FOR HIS VINEYARD

A man named Naboth owns a vineyard that neighbors King Ahab’s palace. Ahab offers to buy the vineyard from Naboth, but Naboth refuses to sell his family farm. Ahab is frustrated by this response and throws a fit, refusing to eat or drink.

Jezebel wants Ahab to have anything he desires, so she tricks Naboth into attending a feast where he is stoned to death. Jezebel is a murderer, but is also a devious liar. Once Naboth was dead, Ahab claims the vineyard as his own.

Meanwhile, God speaks to Elijah, telling him to confront Ahab about Naboth’s death and the theft of his vineyard. God tells Elijah to tell Ahab that the very place where Naboth was stoned, Ahab would also die. Jezebel and Ahab’s ancestors could anticipate the same disastrous fate, anyone who associated with Ahab would perish because of his wickedness.

When Ahab hears this news, he is distraught. Ahab rips his clothes to shreds and fasts, acting submissive and remorseful. Because of Ahab’s repentance, God allows him to live, but keeps his promise of afflicting Ahab’s son.