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1 Kings 19:14

And he said, I have been very jealous for the LORD God of hosts: because the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.

1 Kings 19:14 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse from 1 Kings 19:14, the prophet Elijah expresses his deep concern for the faithfulness of the Israelites to the Lord. He has witnessed how the people of Israel have strayed from God's covenant, destroyed altars dedicated to Him, and even killed His prophets. Feeling alone in his devotion to God, Elijah expresses his frustration and fear for his own life, as the people seek to harm him for his steadfast belief in the Lord. This verse highlights Elijah's zealousness for the Lord and his commitment to upholding His commandments despite the challenges and dangers he faces. It serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining faithful to God's teachings, even in the face of opposition, and reflects the struggles and sacrifices made by those who stand up for their beliefs.

Theological Overview

One key theological interpretation of this verse focuses on the theme of spiritual warfare. The prophet Elijah expresses his deep devotion to the Lord God of hosts, highlighting his zealousness for defending the covenant and the true worship of God. Despite feeling isolated and persecuted, Elijah remains faithful and resolute in his commitment to the Lord. This passage underscores the ongoing battle between good and evil, righteousness and wickedness, and the constant need for believers to stand firm in their faith, even in the face of adversity. The word "jealous" used by Elijah conveys the idea of an intense passion and protection that God has for his people. By pointing out the sins of Israel and his own unique calling, Elijah shows how God's prophets are often at the frontline of spiritual conflict, facing opposition and danger for the sake of proclaiming God's truth. Through this verse, readers are reminded of the importance of standing up for God's truth and righteousness, even when it may be unpopular or dangerous.

1 Kings 19:14 in other translations

American Standard Version

And he said, I have been very jealous for Jehovah, the God of hosts; for the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.

World English Bible

He said, “I have been very jealous for Yahweh, the God of Armies; for the children of Israel have forsaken your covenant, thrown down your altars, and slain your prophets with the sword. I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.”

Douay-Rheims

With zeal have I been zealous for the Lord God of hosts: because the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant: they have destroyed thy altars, they have slain thy prophets with the sword; and I alone am left, and they seek my life to take it away.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And he answered, I haue bene very ielous for the Lord God of hostes, because the children of Israel haue forsaken thy couenant, cast downe thine altars, and slayne thy Prophets with the sworde, and I onely am left, and they seeke my life to take it away.