Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Kings 22:41
Jehoshaphat was a king of Judah who ruled for 25 years and was known for his piety and prosperity. His name means Jehovah has judged, and he is mentioned in 2 Kings 9:2 as the son of King Asa. He was one of the best kings of Judah in the Bible.
Definition: A man of the Kingdom of Israel, living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Ki.9.2; son of: Nimshi (H5250); father of: Jehu (H3058H) § Jehoshaphat = "Jehovah has judged" 1) son of king Asa and himself king of Judah for 25 years; one of the best, most pious, and prosperous kings of Judah 2) son of Nimshi and father of king Jehu of the northern kingdom of Israel 3) son of Ahilud and chronicler under David and Solomon 4) son of Paruah and one of the 12 commissary officers under Solomon 5) a priest and trumpeter in the time of David 6) symbolical name of a valley near Jerusalem which is the place of ultimate judgment; maybe the deep ravine which separates Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives through which the Kidron flowed
Usage: Occurs in 75 OT verses. KJV: Jehoshaphat. Compare H3146 (יוֹשָׁפָט). See also: 2 Samuel 8:16; 2 Chronicles 17:5; Joel 4:12.
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
Asa was a king of Judah, son of Abijam, who ruled wisely and brought peace to the land, as recorded in 1 Kings 15:11-15 and 2 Chronicles 14-16.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at 1Ch.9.16; son of: Elkanah (H0511K); father of: Berechiah (H1296I) § Asa = "healer: injurious (?)" 1) king of Judah, son of Abijam, father of Jehoshaphat 2) a Levite
Usage: Occurs in 52 OT verses. KJV: Asa. See also: 1 Kings 15:8; 2 Chronicles 13:23; Jeremiah 41:9.
To advise or counsel is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which can also mean to reign or rule as a king. It is used in the Bible to describe the actions of leaders, like King Solomon, who sought wisdom to rule God's people. This word is found in the book of 1 Kings.
Definition: 1) to be or become king or queen, reign 1a) (Qal) to be or become king or queen, reign 1b) (Hiphil) to make one king or queen, cause to reign 1c) (Hophal) to be made king or queen
Usage: Occurs in 284 OT verses. KJV: consult, [idiom] indeed, be (make, set a, set up) king, be (make) queen, (begin to, make to) reign(-ing), rule, [idiom] surely. See also: Genesis 36:31; 2 Kings 8:15; 2 Chronicles 10:17.
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
Judah is the name of the tribe descended from Judah, the son of Jacob. It is also the name of the region where the tribe lived. The name means 'praised' and is first mentioned in Genesis.
Definition: § Judah = "praised" the tribe descended from Judah the son of Jacob
Usage: Occurs in 754 OT verses. KJV: Judah. See also: Genesis 29:35; 1 Samuel 23:3; 2 Kings 14:13.
This word also means a year, like when Abraham was 100 years old in Genesis 21. It is used to describe a period of time, age, or a lifetime.
Definition: 1) year 1a) as division of time 1b) as measure of time 1c) as indication of age 1d) a lifetime (of years of life) Aramaic equivalent: she.nah (שְׁנָה "year" H8140)
Usage: Occurs in 647 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] whole age, [idiom] long, [phrase] old, year([idiom] -ly). See also: Genesis 1:14; Genesis 47:28; Numbers 7:35.
The number four is a simple counting number in Hebrew, used to describe quantities of things, such as people, objects, or groups.
Definition: four
Usage: Occurs in 277 OT verses. KJV: four. See also: Genesis 2:10; Judges 20:47; Esther 9:21.
Ahab was a king of Israel who lived a long time ago. He was married to a queen named Jezebel and did many bad things. The prophet Jeremiah also wrote about a different man named Ahab.
Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at Jer.29.21; son of: Kolaiah (H6964H) § Ahab = "father's brother" 1) king of Israel, son of Omri, husband of Jezebel 2) false prophet executed by Nebuchadrezzar, time of Jeremiah
Usage: Occurs in 81 OT verses. KJV: Ahab. See also: 1 Kings 16:28; 1 Kings 22:40; Jeremiah 29:21.
This word refers to a king or royal person, like King David or King Saul. It can also describe something related to a king, like the King's Valley in Genesis. The Bible often uses this word to talk about the rulers of Israel.
Definition: King's (Valley) (Gen.14.17)
Usage: Occurs in 1919 OT verses. KJV: king, royal. See also: Genesis 14:1; Joshua 10:39; 1 Samuel 16:1.
Israel is the symbolic name of Jacob, also referring to his descendants. Jacob, son of Isaac and Rebekah, had 12 sons who became the tribes of Israel, as told in Genesis 25:26. His story is crucial to the Bible's narrative.
Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.25.26; son of: Isaac (H3327) and Rebekah (H7259); brother of: Esau (H6215); married to Rachel (H7354), Leah (H3812), Zilpah (H2153) and Bilhah (H1090A); father of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074), Dinah (H1783), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); also called Jacob frequently § Israel = "God prevails" 1) the second name for Jacob given to him by God after his wrestling with the angel at Peniel 2) the name of the descendants and the nation of the descendants of Jacob 2a) the name of the nation until the death of Solomon and the split 2b) the name used and given to the northern kingdom consisting of the 10 tribes under Jeroboam; the southern kingdom was known as Judah 2c) the name of the nation after the return from exile
Usage: Occurs in 2231 OT verses. KJV: Israel. See also: Genesis 32:29; Exodus 13:18; Exodus 40:38.
Context — Jehoshaphat Reigns in Judah
Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) |
| 1 |
2 Chronicles 20:31 |
So Jehoshaphat reigned over Judah. He was thirty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem twenty-five years. His mother’s name was Azubah daughter of Shilhi. |
| 2 |
1 Kings 22:2 |
However, in the third year, Jehoshaphat king of Judah went down to visit the king of Israel, |
| 3 |
2 Chronicles 17:1 |
Asa’s son Jehoshaphat reigned in his place, and he strengthened himself against Israel. |
| 4 |
1 Chronicles 3:10 |
Solomon’s son was Rehoboam: Abijah was his son, Asa his son, Jehoshaphat his son, |
1 Kings 22:41 Summary
This verse tells us that Jehoshaphat became king of Judah during the fourth year of Ahab's reign over Israel. This timing is significant because it shows how the kingdoms of Israel and Judah were connected, even if they had different rulers, as seen in 1 Kings 15:16. Jehoshaphat's reign is an important part of the story of God's people, and it reminds us that God is always working, even when we don't fully understand the timing or circumstances, as seen in Romans 8:28. By looking at Jehoshaphat's story, we can learn more about trusting God and doing what is right in His eyes, as commanded in Psalm 37:3-4.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the timing of Jehoshaphat's reign in relation to Ahab's reign?
The fact that Jehoshaphat became king in the fourth year of Ahab's reign over Israel highlights the complex and often intertwined history of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah, as seen in 1 Kings 22:41 and 1 Kings 22:40.
How does Jehoshaphat's ascension to the throne relate to the overall narrative of 1 Kings?
Jehoshaphat's becoming king marks a new era in the kingdom of Judah, which will be explored in the subsequent chapters of 1 Kings, and is a key part of the larger story of the kings of Israel and Judah, as referenced in 1 Kings 14:21-22 and 1 Kings 15:24.
What can we learn about Jehoshaphat's character from this verse?
Although this verse does not provide extensive information about Jehoshaphat's character, it sets the stage for his story, which will be told in the following verses, including 1 Kings 22:42-43, and provides context for understanding his relationship with God, as seen in 2 Chronicles 17:3-4.
How does this verse fit into the broader biblical narrative?
This verse is part of the larger story of the kings of Israel and Judah, which ultimately points to the coming of Jesus Christ, as prophesied in Isaiah 11:1 and fulfilled in Luke 1:32-33.
Reflection Questions
- What can I learn from the way Jehoshaphat's reign is introduced in relation to Ahab's reign, and how can I apply this to my own life?
- In what ways can I, like Jehoshaphat, seek to follow God's plan for my life, even when the timing and circumstances are not entirely clear?
- How can I use this verse as a reminder to trust in God's sovereignty, even when the world around me seems chaotic or uncertain, as seen in Proverbs 3:5-6?
- What are some ways I can, like Jehoshaphat, prioritize my relationship with God and seek to do what is right in His eyes, as commanded in Deuteronomy 6:5?
Gill's Exposition on 1 Kings 22:41
And Jehoshaphat the son of Asa began to reign over Judah in the fourth year of Ahab king of Israel.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Kings 22:41
So Ahab slept with his fathers; and Ahaziah his son reigned in his stead. No JFB commentary on these verses.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Kings 22:41
Who reigned twenty-two years; therefore he reigned about eighteen years with Ahab.
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Kings 22:41
1 Kings 22:41 And Jehoshaphat the son of Asa began to reign over Judah in the fourth year of Ahab king of Israel.Ver. 41. Jehoshaphat the son of Asa.] The father was good, but the son better; he repented when he was reproved; but his father stormed, and put the prophet in prison.
Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Kings 22:41
(41) Jehoshaphat.—The narrative here, so far as it is full and continuous, centres round the prophetic work of Elijah and Elisha, the scene of which was in Israel; and the compiler contents himself with the insertion of a few brief annalistic notices of the kingdom of Judah, taking up the thread of the narrative of chapter 15:24, except where (as in 2 Kings 3) it becomes again connected with the history of Israel. In the Chronicles, on the contrary, there is a full and interesting account of the reign of Jehoshaphat, and especially of his great religious revival (2 Chronicles 17-20), coinciding with this chapter, almost verbally, in the account of the battle at Ramoth-gilead. The brief notices here of the religious work of Jehoshaphat, his “might,” and his “wars,” agree entirely with this fuller record.
Cambridge Bible on 1 Kings 22:41
41–50. Brief notice of the reign of Jehoshaphat, king of Judah (2 Chronicles 20:31-37; 2 Chronicles 21:1) 41. Jehoshaphat the son of Asa] For the events of the twenty-five years of Jehoshaphat’s reign the books of Kings give but a scanty record. His alliance with Jehoram, Ahab’s son, against the king of Moab, is mentioned (2 Kings 2:7, seqq.) and that Jehoram, his son, was made king during his father’s lifetime (2 Kings 8:16). But this is all. Yet clearly Jehoshaphat was a king of much influence. The Chronicler also tells much good concerning him. The Lord was with him (2 Chronicles 17) and he prospered. He sent out Levites with the princes to teach the people in the cities of Judah. His enemies were dismayed by his greatness, for he had famous commanders and mighty armies.
He made the improper alliance with Ahab (2 Chronicles 18) but after Ahab’s death, he returned to Jerusalem and appointed and instructed judges and priests and Levites (2 Chronicles 19) to act in the fear of the Lord and with a perfect heart. He was attacked by Moab (2 Chronicles 20) but seeking unto the Lord he gained a great victory, which he celebrated in such way that the place of the celebration was known afterwards as ‘The valley of blessing.’
Barnes' Notes on 1 Kings 22:41
The writer returns to the history of the kingdom of Judah (connect this verse with 1 Kings 15:24), sketching briefly a reign much more fully given by the writer of Chronicles 2 Chr. 17–20. Compare also the marginal references.
Whedon's Commentary on 1 Kings 22:41
’S REIGN, 1 Kings 22:41-50.The reign of this king of Judah is rapidly passed over in this book, but is more fully detailed in 2 Chronicles chaps. 17-20.
Sermons on 1 Kings 22:41
| Sermon | Description |
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Jehoshaphat - "Faith Cometh by Hearing"
by Major Ian Thomas
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Major Ian Thomas emphasizes the importance of faith that comes from hearing the Word of God, using the story of King Jehoshaphat to illustrate how faith must be mixed with action t |
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Jehoshaphat's Revival
by Timothy Williams
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In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a heart that is open to God's reproof. He uses the story of Jehoshaphat to illustrate how disobedience and indiffer |