Jezebel is introduced in 1 Kings 16:31 as the daughter of Ethbaal, king of the Sidonians, and the wife of Ahab king of Israel. Ahab, influenced by her, did evil in the sight of the Lord, and Jezebel played a significant role in turning Israel to the worship of Baal. She supported hundreds of prophets of Baal and Asherah, while persecuting and killing the prophets of the Lord (1 Kings 18:4, 19).
Jezebel is notably confronted through the ministry of the prophet Elijah. In 1 Kings 18, Elijah challenged the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, where the Lord answered by fire, proving His power. Elijah then slew the prophets of Baal. When Jezebel heard of this, she sent a threatening message to Elijah, vowing to kill him (1 Kings 19:1–2). Her intimidation led Elijah to flee into the wilderness.
Later, Jezebel orchestrated the death of Naboth in order to secure his vineyard for Ahab. She falsely accused Naboth of blasphemy and had him stoned (1 Kings 21:8–14). This wicked act prompted a direct word from the Lord through Elijah: “The dogs shall eat Jezebel by the wall of Jezreel” (1 Kings 21:23).
Jezebel’s death occurred during the reign of Jehu, who was anointed to bring judgment upon the house of Ahab. When Jehu came to Jezreel, Jezebel adorned herself and looked out a window. Jehu commanded her eunuchs to throw her down, and she was trampled underfoot. Dogs devoured her body, fulfilling Elijah’s prophecy (2 Kings 9:30–37).
In the New Testament, Jesus refers to a woman called Jezebel in the church at Thyatira, likening her to the Old Testament queen. This woman called herself a prophetess and led believers into immorality and idolatry. The Lord declared judgment upon her unless she repented (Revelation 2:20–23).
Jezebel’s legacy is one of idolatry, manipulation, and opposition to the true worship of God. Her name became synonymous with spiritual corruption and unrepentant rebellion. Her judgment underscores God’s justice and His intolerance of those who lead others into sin.