2 Kings 9:22
And it came to pass, when Joram saw Jehu, that he said, Is it peace, Jehu? And he answered, What peace, so long as the whoredoms of thy mother Jezebel and her witchcrafts are so many?
2 Kings 9:22 · King James Version
Meaning
When Joram encountered Jehu and inquired about peace, Jehu's response highlighted a deeper meaning beyond a simple greeting. Jehu's reply pointed to the ongoing sins and wickedness that plagued the kingdom under the reign of Jezebel, Joram's mother. The mention of "whoredoms" and "witchcrafts" alludes to the immoral and idolatrous practices that Jezebel promoted, leading the people away from the true worship of God. Jehu's question challenged Joram to consider whether true peace could exist in a society corrupted by such evil deeds. This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of righteousness in maintaining peace and prosperity in a nation. By addressing the sins of Jezebel, Jehu emphasizes the need for repentance and renewal in order to achieve true peace in the land.
Theological Overview
During the encounter between Joram and Jehu, there is a deeper theological interpretation that can be gleaned from Jehu's response to Joram's question about peace. The word "peace" in this context is not simply referring to the absence of war or conflict, but rather to the presence of righteousness and obedience to God. Jehu's response highlights the fact that true peace cannot exist as long as there are sinful practices such as idolatry and witchcraft being carried out. The mention of Jezebel, known for her promotion of false gods and pagan practices, serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments. This interaction between Joram and Jehu underscores the importance of living in accordance with God's will in order to experience true peace and blessings in life.
2 Kings 9:22 in other translations
American Standard Version
And it came to pass, when Joram saw Jehu, that he said, Is it peace, Jehu? And he answered, What peace, so long as the whoredoms of thy mother Jezebel and her witchcrafts are so many?
World English Bible
When Joram saw Jehu, he said, “Is it peace, Jehu?” He answered, “What peace, so long as the prostitution of your mother Jezebel and her witchcraft abound?”
Douay-Rheims
And when Joram saw Jehu, he said: Is there peace, Jehu? And he answered: What peace? so long as the fornications of Jezabel, thy mother, and her many sorceries, are in their vigour.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And when Iehoram sawe Iehu, he sayde, Is it peace, Iehu? And he answered, What peace? whiles the whoredomes of thy mother Iezebel, and her witchcraftes are yet in great nomber?