1 Kings 16:7 Meaning and Explanation
“And also by the hand of the prophet Jehu the son of Hanani came the word of the LORD against Baasha, and against his house, even for all the evil that he did in the sight of the LORD, in provoking him to anger with the work of his hands, in being like the house of Jeroboam; and because he killed him.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The narrator restates that God's word came against Baasha for his evil, his idolatry, and for destroying the house he had himself struck down.
What Does 1 Kings 16:7 Mean?
This summary verse underscores why judgment came: Baasha provoked the LORD 'with the work of his hands,' his idols, and 'because he killed him,' a reference to his violent seizure of the throne from Jeroboam's house. The very act by which he rose became part of his guilt.
There is a solemn justice here. Baasha had been God's instrument against Jeroboam, yet he was still accountable for his own bloodshed and idolatry. Being used by God does not excuse our sin. Each of us answers for the work of our own hands, which is why our deepest hope can never be our record, but the mercy and cleansing found in the Lord.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Kings 16:7
What does 1 Kings 16:7 mean?
The narrator restates that God's word came against Baasha for his evil, his idolatry, and for destroying the house he had himself struck down.