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1 Kings 21:13

And there came in two men, children of Belial, and sat before him: and the men of Belial witnessed against him, even against Naboth, in the presence of the people, saying, Naboth did blaspheme God and the king. Then they carried him forth out of the city, and stoned him with stones, that he died.

1 Kings 21:13 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the Book of Kings tells the tragic story of Naboth, a man who was falsely accused of blasphemy against God and the king by two men who were described as children of Belial. The term "children of Belial" refers to individuals who are wicked or lawless. These two men plotted against Naboth and falsely accused him in front of the people, leading to Naboth being taken outside the city and stoned to death with stones. This story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of false accusations and the abuse of power. It also highlights the consequences of bearing false witness and the importance of seeking justice and truth in all circumstances. Ultimately, this verse serves as a reminder of the need for integrity, fairness, and righteousness in dealing with others, especially in matters of life and death.

Theological Overview

This verse from 1 Kings 21:13 depicts a stark scene of injustice and betrayal. The phrase "children of Belial" refers to wicked or lawless individuals who act contrary to God's commands. In this context, these men falsely accuse Naboth of blaspheming God and the king to justify their evil deeds. The theological interpretation of this verse shows us the consequences of corruption and deceit, highlighting the importance of standing firm in the truth and resisting the temptations of falsehood. It serves as a reminder of the sinful nature of humanity and the need for justice and righteousness. The word study of "Belial" further reveals the depths of evil and darkness that these men embody, emphasizing the contrast between their wicked actions and the moral integrity that God desires from His people. Ultimately, this verse serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of succumbing to the influence of wickedness and the importance of upholding God's truth in the face of adversity.

1 Kings 21:13 in other translations

American Standard Version

And the two men, the base fellows, came in and sat before him: and the base fellows bare witness against him, even against Naboth, in the presence of the people, saying, Naboth did curse God and the king. Then they carried him forth out of the city, and stoned him to death with stones.

World English Bible

The two men, the base fellows, came in and sat before him. The base fellows testified against him, even against Naboth, in the presence of the people, saying, “Naboth cursed God and the king!” Then they carried him out of the city, and stoned him to death with stones.

Douay-Rheims

And bringing two men, sons of the devil, they made them sit against him: and they, like men of the devil, bore witness against him before the people: saying: Naboth hath blasphemed God and the king. Wherefore they brought him forth without the city, and stoned him to death.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And there came two wicked men, and sate before him: and the wicked men witnessed against Naboth in the presence of the people saying, Naboth did blaspheme God and the King. Then they caried him away out of the citie, and stoned him with stones, that he dyed.