Who was Hazael in the Bible?
King living at the time of Divided Monarchy
Hazael is a figure mentioned in the Bible during the time of the Divided Monarchy. He is first mentioned in 1 Kings 19:15, where God instructs the prophet Elijah to anoint Hazael as king over Syria. Hazael was a prominent Syrian king during this period. He is also mentioned in 2 Kings and Amos.
Hazael’s actions are significant in the historical narrative of the Bible. In 2 Kings 8:12-15, Hazael is prophesied to carry out brutal acts, including oppressing the Israelites and causing great harm. He eventually becomes king of Syria and fulfills these prophecies by committing atrocities, as seen in 2 Kings 8:28-29 and 2 Kings 10:32.
Hazael’s rise to power and his actions are portrayed as part of God’s judgment on Israel for their disobedience and idolatry. Despite being used as an instrument of God’s judgment, Hazael’s actions are not excused, as he acts out of his own wickedness and ambition.
In 2 Kings 13:3, Hazael’s son, Ben-hadad, is mentioned, continuing the lineage of Syrian kings during this period. The interactions between the kings of Israel and Syria, including Hazael and his descendants, play a significant role in the historical and prophetic accounts of the Bible.
From a biblical perspective, the story of Hazael serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty over the nations and His use of human agents to accomplish His purposes, even in the midst of their sinful actions. It also underscores the importance of obedience to God’s commands and the consequences of turning away from Him.
Hazael’s story is a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for repentance and faithfulness to God’s word. It also points to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s plan through Jesus Christ, who brings redemption and salvation to all who believe in Him.
References:
1 Kings 19:15, 1 Kings 19:17, 2 Kings 8:8, 2 Kings 8:9, 2 Kings 8:12, 2 Kings 8:13, 2 Kings 8:15, 2 Kings 8:28, 2 Kings 8:29, 2 Kings 9:14, 2 Kings 9:15, 2 Kings 10:32, 2 Kings 12:17, 2 Kings 12:18, 2 Kings 13:3, 2 Kings 13:22, 2 Kings 13:24, 2 Kings 13:25, 2 Chronicles 22:5, 2 Chronicles 22:6, Amos 1:4.