1 Kings 14:2
Afrikaans 1933/1953
En Jerobeam het vir sy vrou gesê: Maak jou tog gereed en trek ander klere aan, sodat hulle nie kan merk dat jy die vrou van Jerobeam is nie, en gaan na Silo; kyk, daar is die profeet Ah¡a wat van my gesê het dat ek koning oor hierdie volk sou word.
What Does This Mean?
In this verse, Jeroboam is telling his wife to disguise herself so that no one recognizes her as his wife. He instructs her to go to Shiloh to see the prophet Ahijah, who had previously told Jeroboam he would become king. Jeroboam fears that people will recognize his wife and find out their plan.
Explained for Children
Imagine you're playing hide and seek with your friends, and you want to visit your friend's house without being seen. Jeroboam is like the person who wants to visit a friend without others knowing it's him. He asks his wife to pretend to be someone else so she can go see a special friend without anyone finding out.
Historical Background
This passage is from the Book of 1 Kings, traditionally attributed to the prophets Jeremiah and Ezra, written around the 6th century BCE. It was written for the Israelite people to record their history and the prophets' messages. The setting is during the time when Jeroboam ruled the northern kingdom of Israel.
Living It Out Today
Today, we might face situations where we need to be discreet in our actions. For example, if you're planning a surprise party for a friend, you might need to keep it secret and perhaps dress up to avoid being recognized by the person you're surprising.
Topics
disguisedeceptionprophetskingshipfaithcourage
Related Verses
1 Kings 11:29-391 Kings 12:25-331 Samuel 15:1-35Jeremiah 31:1-14Matthew 2:1-23
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Jeroboam tell his wife to disguise herself?
Jeroboam was concerned about his wife being recognized as the king's wife, which could reveal their plan and possibly compromise their safety or the mission to see the prophet.
What was Jeroboam's plan by going to Shiloh?
Jeroboam wanted his wife to visit the prophet Ahijah in Shiloh because he believed the prophet could provide insight or help regarding his son's illness.
Who was Ahijah the prophet?
Ahijah was a prophet in the time of Jeroboam who had previously predicted Jeroboam's rise to kingship. He was known for his divine revelations and guidance.
What does this verse tell us about the times?
This verse gives us a glimpse into the political and religious dynamics of ancient Israel, where prophets had significant influence and disguise was used to maintain secrecy and safety.