2 Kings 10:11-13
The Voice
11 Jehu slaughtered everyone who belonged to Ahab’s household in Jezreel. He slaughtered all who knew Ahab—the mighty men of the city, the priests, and even mere acquaintances. There was not a single person left alive who knew Ahab.
Whenever a king dies, there is always some struggle over who should follow him. Even when King David died, his successor was unclear (1 Kings 1). Since Jehu is not related to Ahab, he does not have a blood right to the throne; and since Jehu takes it by force, he must keep it by force. The best way to make sure none of Ahab’s family and acquaintances conspire against him is to kill them all.
12 For example, on his way to Samaria, when Jehu was with the shepherds at Beth-eked, 13 he met some relatives of Ahaziah, king of Judah.
Jehu: Do I know you?
Ahaziah’s Relatives: We are related to Ahaziah. We are here to meet the king and queen’s sons.
The Voice Bible Copyright © 2012 Thomas Nelson, Inc. The Voice™ translation © 2012 Ecclesia Bible Society All rights reserved.
