Topical Encyclopedia Baasha, son of Ahijah, emerges in the biblical narrative as a significant yet enigmatic figure, whose rise to power is both dramatic and illustrative of divine sovereignty over the affairs of men. His story is primarily chronicled in the First Book of Kings, where he is depicted as a man who rose from humble beginnings to become the king of Israel.Background and Rise to Power Baasha hailed from the tribe of Issachar, a tribe not particularly noted for producing leaders or kings. His ascent to the throne is a testament to the unpredictable nature of divine providence, as he was not of royal lineage. The Bible records that Baasha conspired against Nadab, the son of Jeroboam, during a military campaign against the Philistine city of Gibbethon. In a swift and decisive coup, Baasha assassinated Nadab and seized the throne of Israel (1 Kings 15:27-28). Divine Judgment and Fulfillment of Prophecy Baasha's rise to power was not merely a political maneuver but also a fulfillment of divine prophecy. The house of Jeroboam had been condemned by the prophet Ahijah due to Jeroboam's idolatry and sin (1 Kings 14:10-11). Baasha's coup and subsequent extermination of Jeroboam's lineage (1 Kings 15:29) were acts that aligned with God's judgment against Jeroboam's house, demonstrating that Baasha, though acting out of personal ambition, was an instrument in the divine plan. Reign and Legacy Baasha reigned over Israel for twenty-four years, establishing his capital in Tirzah (1 Kings 15:33). His reign, however, was marked by continued idolatry and conflict with the southern kingdom of Judah. Despite his initial role in fulfilling divine judgment, Baasha did not walk in the ways of the Lord. Instead, he perpetuated the sins of Jeroboam, leading Israel further into idolatry (1 Kings 15:34). The prophet Jehu, son of Hanani, delivered a message of judgment against Baasha, declaring that his house would suffer the same fate as Jeroboam's (1 Kings 16:1-4). This prophecy was fulfilled when Baasha's son, Elah, was assassinated by Zimri, who then exterminated Baasha's entire family (1 Kings 16:11-12). Conclusion Baasha's story is a poignant reminder of the transient nature of human power and the ultimate authority of God over the kingdoms of men. His rise from obscurity to the throne underscores the biblical theme that God can raise up and depose leaders according to His purposes. Despite his initial role in executing divine judgment, Baasha's failure to lead Israel in righteousness resulted in his own downfall and the obliteration of his dynasty. His life serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of forsaking God's commandments and the futility of seeking power apart from divine guidance. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 16:1,2Then the word of the LORD came to Jehu the son of Hanani against Baasha, saying, Nave's Topical Index Library Psalm 75. Power and Government from God Alone. Applied to the ... Psalm 75 Power and Government from God Alone. The Bright Dawn of a Reign The New Garment Bent The Emperor and Empress Joseph, the Prime Minister The Mother of Xerxes. The People's Christ A Last Look-Out The Great Reparation Resources How is the Islamic idea of jihad different from the violence in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho is Joel Osteen, and are his teachings biblical? | GotQuestions.org What are some biblical examples of dream interpretation? | GotQuestions.org Promotion: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Promotion: As a Reward of Merit Promotion: Baasha, "Out of the Dust" to the Throne Promotion: Daniel, from a Captive to Premier Promotion: General Scriptures Concerning Promotion: Jeroboam, from a Slave to the Throne Promotion: Joseph, from Imprisoned Slave to Prince Promotion: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego Related Terms |
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