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1 Kings 18:10

As the LORD thy God liveth, there is no nation or kingdom, whither my lord hath not sent to seek thee: and when they said, He is not there; he took an oath of the kingdom and nation, that they found thee not.

1 Kings 18:10 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse is a declaration of King Ahab's determination to find the prophet Elijah. King Ahab had been searching for Elijah everywhere, sending messengers to different nations and kingdoms looking for him. Despite the efforts of these messengers, Elijah remained elusive and could not be found. The phrase "As the LORD thy God liveth" indicates the seriousness of Ahab's quest, as he swore by the living God to show the extent of his search for Elijah. This verse highlights Ahab's persistence and desperation in finding Elijah, demonstrating his willingness to go to great lengths to locate him. The oath taken by the kingdom and nation in their unsuccessful search reinforces the idea that Elijah's whereabouts were a mystery, despite the best efforts of those sent to find him. Overall, this verse showcases the determination and intensity of King Ahab's search for Elijah, adding depth to the narrative of their interactions in the Bible.

Theological Overview

This verse from 1 Kings 18:10 showcases the steadfast commitment and determination of King Ahab to find the prophet Elijah, who had prophesied the drought plaguing the land. The phrase "As the LORD thy God liveth" underscores the seriousness of Ahab's search for Elijah, emphasizing that nothing would stop him from finding the prophet. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the theme of divine intervention and protection, as even though Ahab searched throughout nations and kingdoms, he was unable to locate Elijah. This serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and ultimate control over all circumstances. The phrase "he took an oath of the kingdom and nation" signifies the lengths to which Ahab went to find Elijah, further emphasizing his determination. This verse serves as a powerful example of the lengths to which individuals will go to seek God's word and guidance, showcasing the importance of unwavering faith and perseverance in the face of challenges.

1 Kings 18:10 in other translations

American Standard Version

As Jehovah thy God liveth, there is no nation or kingdom, whither my lord hath not sent to seek thee: and when they said, He is not here, he took an oath of the kingdom and nation, that they found thee not.

World English Bible

As Yahweh your God lives, there is no nation or kingdom, where my lord has not sent to seek you. When they said, ‘He is not here,’ he took an oath of the kingdom and nation, that they didn’t find you.

Douay-Rheims

As the Lord thy God liveth, there is no nation or kingdom, whither my lord hath not sent to seek thee: and when all answered: He is not here: he took an oath of every kingdom and nation, because thou wast not found.

Geneva Bible (1599)

As the Lord thy God liueth, there is no nation or kingdome, whither my lorde hath not sent to seeke thee: and when they sayd, He is not here, he tooke an othe of the kingdome and nation, if they had not found thee.