2 Chronicles 18:26 Meaning and Explanation
“And say, Thus saith the king, Put this fellow in the prison, and feed him with bread of affliction and with water of affliction, until I return in peace.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Ahab instructs that Micaiah be imprisoned on bread and water rations until the king returns victorious.
The Context of 2 Chronicles 18:26
Ahab's harsh imprisonment orders for Micaiah.
What Does 2 Chronicles 18:26 Mean?
Ahab's command was explicit and contemptuous. Micaiah was to be placed in prison on a minimal diet—'bread of affliction and water of affliction'—which suggests coarse bread and meager water rations, a harsh treatment. The ominous phrase 'until I return in peace' reveals Ahab's confidence that he would return victorious from the battle.
The 'affliction' in the feeding was both literal (poor food) and symbolic of the prophet's lowered status. Ahab was essentially saying, 'Languish in prison until I prove you wrong by returning victorious.' This underestimated both Micaiah's prophetic word and God's determination of the outcome.
2 Chronicles 18:26 in the Original Language
affliction (לַחַץ), 'affliction' — from an Arabic root meaning to press or squeeze; thus minimal, squeezed-down provisions.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Chronicles 18:26
What does 2 Chronicles 18:26 mean?
Ahab instructs that Micaiah be imprisoned on bread and water rations until the king returns victorious.
What is the context of 2 Chronicles 18:26?
Ahab's harsh imprisonment orders for Micaiah.