Jezebel the Great

It is no coincidence that this description of Jezebel resembles the description of another woman in Revelation, the woman who rides atop the “scarlet beast” (Revelation 17:3).

Scripture specifically mentions Jezebel’s appearance at the time of her impending death. Aware of her fate, Jezebel defiantly dressed herself up as a queen: “She put paint on her eyes and adorned her head” (2 Kings 9:30). The appearance of the woman atop the beast is similarly emphasized: Her head is dressed with the title, “Babylon the Great, the Mother of Harlots” (Revelation 17:5). Jezebel was also depicted as having “children,” those who adhered to and perpetuated her idolatry. Likewise, Babylon the Great is “arrayed in purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls” (v. 4). Interestingly, Thyatira was known for its trade of purple dye (Acts 16:14). Babylon the Great was, likewise, seen as royalty, “for she says in her heart, ‘I sit as queen’” (Revelation 18:7). Like Jezebel, she also “committed fornication” (v. 3) and on her hands “was found the blood of prophets” (v. 24).

The manner of Jezebel’s death is also of particular interest. The queen was thrown down from her window by her very own servants; then did the following prophecy come true: “Dogs shall eat the flesh of Jezebel” (2 Kings 9:36). It is likewise prophesied that Babylon the Great’s own “lovers” will turn on her. The servants, like the dogs, will “eat her flesh” (Revelation 17:16).

But notice Christ’s insistent mercy in disclosing the certain destruction that will befall any who follow this queen. Jezebel seduced others with her façade of opulence, but what came of that in the end? Jesus cares about what lasts, our “minds and hearts.” Though we are not saved by works, our character, which is revealed by our works, is what will stand trial in the judgment.

Gracious God, You have given fair warning time and again of the path that leads to utter ruin. But with that You always provide the way of salvation. May I surrender my heart to You, to be created anew, and to be found faithful in the end.

For Further Study: 1 Samuel 16:7; Jeremiah 17:10; John 5:28, 29

Key Bible Texts

Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. (Revelation 2:22 KJV)