Bidkar is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the reign of Jehu, the king of Israel. His role is highlighted in the narrative of Jehu's rise to power and the fulfillment of divine judgment against the house of Ahab.

Biblical Reference:

Bidkar is mentioned in 2 Kings 9:25. The passage describes a significant moment during Jehu's coup against the house of Ahab. After Jehu kills Joram, the king of Israel, he instructs Bidkar, his captain, to dispose of Joram's body in the field of Naboth the Jezreelite. This act is a fulfillment of the prophecy given by Elijah concerning the house of Ahab, as a divine retribution for the murder of Naboth and the usurpation of his vineyard by Ahab and Jezebel.

2 Kings 9:25 states: "Jehu said to Bidkar his officer, 'Pick him up and throw him on the plot of ground belonging to Naboth the Jezreelite. For remember how you and I were riding together behind Ahab his father when the LORD pronounced this oracle against him.'"

Role and Significance:

Bidkar's role as Jehu's captain indicates his position of trust and authority within Jehu's military ranks. His involvement in the disposal of Joram's body underscores his participation in the execution of divine justice as prophesied by Elijah. This act serves as a pivotal moment in the narrative, symbolizing the end of Ahab's dynasty and the beginning of Jehu's reign, which was marked by a zealous purge of Baal worship and the eradication of Ahab's lineage.

Historical and Theological Context:

The account of Bidkar and Jehu is set during a tumultuous period in Israel's history, characterized by political upheaval and religious apostasy. The house of Ahab had led Israel into idolatry, provoking the wrath of God. Jehu's anointing as king and his subsequent actions were seen as instruments of divine judgment, fulfilling the words spoken by the prophets.

Bidkar's mention, though brief, highlights the broader theme of divine sovereignty and justice. The narrative demonstrates how God uses individuals and events to accomplish His purposes, often in unexpected ways. Bidkar, as a loyal captain, plays a crucial role in the unfolding of God's plan for Israel during this era.

Conclusion:

Bidkar's presence in the biblical text, though limited to a single verse, is integral to the account of Jehu's rise and the fulfillment of prophetic judgment. His actions, under Jehu's command, contribute to the larger narrative of God's dealings with the nation of Israel and the eradication of idolatry from its midst.2 Kings 9:25
Then said Jehu to Bidkar his captain, Take up, and cast him in the portion of the field of Naboth the Jezreelite: for remember how that, when I and you rode together after Ahab his father, the LORD laid this burden on him;
Nave's Topical Index

How Jehu was Anointed King, and Slew Both Joram and Ahaziah; as ...
... Jehu also gave orders to Bidkar, the captain of the third part of his army, to cast
the dead body of Joram into the field of Naboth, putting him in mind of the ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 6 how jehu was.htm

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