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1 Kings 14:5

And the LORD said unto Ahijah, Behold, the wife of Jeroboam cometh to ask a thing of thee for her son; for he is sick: thus and thus shalt thou say unto her: for it shall be, when she cometh in, that she shall feign herself to be another woman.

1 Kings 14:5 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, the LORD instructs Ahijah to prepare for the arrival of Jeroboam's wife, who is coming to seek guidance for her sick son. The LORD tells Ahijah that when she arrives, she will pretend to be someone else. This deception is likely a test of Jeroboam's wife's true intentions and faith. By instructing Ahijah to respond to her as if she were a stranger, the LORD is demonstrating that he sees beyond outward appearances and knows the true motives of the heart. This verse serves as a reminder that God looks at the heart of individuals and tests their sincerity. It also highlights the importance of honesty and authenticity in seeking God's guidance and favor. This verse can be a lesson for believers to trust in God's wisdom and discernment, even when situations may seem confusing or unclear.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the LORD instructs the prophet Ahijah to prepare himself for the arrival of Jeroboam's wife, who is seeking healing for her sick son. The word "feign" in this context means to pretend or disguise oneself. Ahijah is instructed to tell her specific things when she arrives, as the situation required discretion and subtlety. This verse can be interpreted as a lesson in obedience and trust in God's guidance. The theological implications of this verse highlight the importance of following God's instructions, even when they may seem unconventional or confusing. As readers delve deeper into this passage, they may reflect on their own trust in God's guidance and the necessity of humility in following His will. Word studies on phrases such as "feign herself to be another woman" can offer deeper insights into the cultural and historical context of the passage, shedding light on the significance of this commandment in the broader narrative of Jeroboam's rule. Overall, this verse emphasizes the necessity of faithful obedience to God's instructions, even in challenging and uncertain circumstances.

1 Kings 14:5 in other translations

American Standard Version

And Jehovah said unto Ahijah, Behold, the wife of Jeroboam cometh to inquire of thee concerning her son; for he is sick: thus and thus shalt thou say unto her; for it will be, when she cometh in, that she will feign herself to be another woman.

World English Bible

Yahweh said to Ahijah, “Behold, the wife of Jeroboam comes to inquire of you concerning her son; for he is sick. Thus and thus you shall tell her; for it will be, when she comes in, that she will pretend to be another woman.”

Douay-Rheims

And the Lord said to Ahias: Behold the wife of Jeroboam cometh in, to consult thee concerning her son, that is sick: thus and thus shalt thou speak to her. So when she was coming in, and made as if she were another woman,

Geneva Bible (1599)

Then the Lord saide vnto Ahiiah, Beholde, the wife of Ieroboam commeth to aske a thing of thee for her sonne, for he is sicke: thus and thus shalt thou say vnto her: for when shee commeth in, shee shall feine her selfe to be another.