1 Kings 16:7
And also by the hand of the prophet Jehu the son of Hanani came the word of the LORD against Baasha, and against his house, even for all the evil that he did in the sight of the LORD, in provoking him to anger with the work of his hands, in being like the house of Jeroboam; and because he killed him.
1 Kings 16:7 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the Bible recounts the prophecy delivered by the prophet Jehu, son of Hanani, against King Baasha and his house. Baasha was the third king of the northern kingdom of Israel, ruling after the death of Jeroboam. Baasha is condemned for his evil deeds that provoked the Lord's anger. Specifically, he is criticized for following in the sinful ways of Jeroboam and for assassinating him to gain power. By acting against the will of the Lord and engaging in idolatry, Baasha brought about his downfall and the punishment of his entire household. This passage serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of staying faithful to God's commandments.
Theological Overview
Within this verse, we see the prophet Jehu delivering a message from the Lord regarding Baasha, who was the king of Israel. The Lord condemns Baasha for his evil actions and his provocation of anger towards Him. The use of the term "the work of his hands" emphasizes Baasha's sinful deeds and his lack of reliance on God. By comparing Baasha to Jeroboam, who was known for his idolatry and disobedience to God, the verse highlights the severity of Baasha's actions. The mention of Baasha killing someone further reinforces the idea of his wickedness.
Through the theological interpretation of this verse, we can understand the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God. The repercussions of Baasha's sins serve as a cautionary tale for believers, reminding them of the consequences of straying from God's path. By studying the Word of the Lord as spoken through prophets like Jehu, we gain insights into God's character and His expectations for His people. This verse serves as a reminder of the Lord's justice and righteousness, urging us to seek His forgiveness and guidance in all aspects of our lives.
1 Kings 16:7 in other translations
American Standard Version
And moreover by the prophet Jehu the son of Hanani came the word of Jehovah against Baasha, and against his house, both because of all the evil that he did in the sight of Jehovah, to provoke him to anger with the work of his hands, in being like the house of Jeroboam, and because he smote him.
World English Bible
Moreover by the prophet Jehu the son of Hanani came Yahweh’s word against Baasha, and against his house, both because of all the evil that he did in the sight of Yahweh, to provoke him to anger with the work of his hands, in being like the house of Jeroboam, and because he struck him.
Douay-Rheims
And when the word of the Lord came in the hand of Jehu, the son of Hanani, the prophet, against Baasa, and against his house, and against all the evil that he had done before the Lord, to provoke him to anger by the works of his hands, to become as the house of Jeroboam: for this cause he slew him; that is to say, Jehu, the son of Hanani, the prophet.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And also by the hande of Iehu the sonne of Hanani the Prophet, came the worde of the Lord to Baasha, and to his house, that he shoulde be like the house of Ieroboam, euen for all the wickednes that he did in the sight of the Lord, in prouoking him with the worke of his hands, and because he killed him.