1 Kings 14:11
Him that dieth of Jeroboam in the city shall the dogs eat; and him that dieth in the field shall the fowls of the air eat: for the LORD hath spoken it.
1 Kings 14:11 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of First Kings in the Bible foretells a prophecy of destruction for Jeroboam, the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel. The verse predicts a gruesome fate for those who die in the city and in the field – being devoured by dogs and birds, respectively. This harsh judgment is a consequence of Jeroboam's disobedience to God's commandments and his role in leading the people of Israel astray through idolatry. The verse serves as a warning to those who turn away from God and follow their own desires, emphasizing the importance of obedience and loyalty to God. It is a stark reminder of the consequences of sin and the ultimate authority of the Lord over all things. The prophecy in this verse highlights the severity of God's judgments on those who choose to rebel against Him, underscoring the importance of faith and obedience in the eyes of the Lord.
Theological Overview
This verse from the book of 1 Kings 14:11 deals with the consequences for those who are disobedient to God. In this particular case, Jeroboam, the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel, is being warned of the fate that awaits him and his family. The reference to dogs eating those who die in the city and birds eating those who die in the field is a common ancient Near Eastern way of describing the ultimate disgrace and dishonor that would come upon someone. In this context, it signifies the complete destruction and lack of proper burial that will befall Jeroboam and his descendants due to their wickedness. This serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin in the eyes of the Lord and the importance of living a life that is pleasing to Him. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the idea that God's judgment is certain and just, and that ultimately, those who defy His will will face severe consequences.
1 Kings 14:11 in other translations
American Standard Version
Him that dieth of Jeroboam in the city shall the dogs eat; and him that dieth in the field shall the birds of the heavens eat: for Jehovah hath spoken it.
World English Bible
He who dies of Jeroboam in the city shall the dogs eat; and he who dies in the field shall the birds of the sky eat: for Yahweh has spoken it.”’
Douay-Rheims
Them that shall die of Jeroboam in the city, the dogs shall eat: and them that shall die in the field, the birds of the air shall devour: for the Lord hath spoken it.
Geneva Bible (1599)
The dogges shall eate him of Ieroboams stocke that dyeth in the citie, and the foules of the aire shall eate him that dyeth in the fielde: for the Lord hath said it.