1 Kings 22 7

1 Kings 22:7 kjv

And Jehoshaphat said, Is there not here a prophet of the LORD besides, that we might enquire of him?

1 Kings 22:7 nkjv

And Jehoshaphat said, "Is there not still a prophet of the LORD here, that we may inquire of Him?"

1 Kings 22:7 niv

But Jehoshaphat asked, "Is there no longer a prophet of the LORD here whom we can inquire of?"

1 Kings 22:7 esv

But Jehoshaphat said, "Is there not here another prophet of the LORD of whom we may inquire?"

1 Kings 22:7 nlt

But Jehoshaphat asked, "Is there not also a prophet of the LORD here? We should ask him the same question."

1 Kings 22 verses

1 Kings 22 7 Meaning

This verse captures the pivotal moment where Jehoshaphat, the King of Judah, discerns the falseness of King Ahab's 400 prophets and expresses a profound desire to consult a genuine prophet of Yahweh (the LORD) for true divine counsel before engaging in battle. His question underscores the critical distinction between diviners who speak what rulers desire and those who truly convey God's uncompromising word.

1 Kings 22 7 Context

1 Kings chapter 22 details King Ahab of Israel's desire to recapture Ramoth-gilead from the Arameans. He proposes an alliance with Jehoshaphat, King of Judah, who agrees. Before proceeding, Ahab assembles 400 prophets who unanimously assure him of victory. However, Jehoshaphat, discerning the insincerity or source of their prophecies, queries if there isn't "still a prophet of the LORD" to consult. This pivotal question sets the stage for the true prophet Micaiah's appearance, whose unpopular prophecy dramatically contradicts the 400 and ultimately exposes the tragic outcome of Ahab's reliance on falsehood. The broader historical context includes Ahab's consistent apostasy, his promotion of Baal worship through Jezebel, and the often compromised nature of the prophetic office in the Northern Kingdom compared to Judah.

1 Kings 22 7 Word analysis

• But (וַיֹּאמֶר, vaiyomer; followed by the adversative particle אֲבָל, 'ăval, or implied contrast depending on the specific text construction but 'aval clearly found in the parallel): Signifies a sharp contrast. It signals a shift in perspective or a point of disagreement with what precedes. Here, it contrasts Jehoshaphat's discerning query with Ahab's superficial consultation and the unanimous, yet false, declarations of his prophets.

• Jehoshaphat (יְהוֹשָׁפָט, Yehoshaphat): Means "Yahweh has judged" or "Yahweh is judge." King of Judah, known for generally righteous reign and reforms, though his alliance with the wicked Ahab was a grave error. His name underscores the expectation of divine judgment and righteousness.

• said (וַיֹּאמֶר, vaiyomer): Standard narrative verb, indicating direct speech.

• "Is there not still (הַאֵין עוֹד, ha'ein 'od)?": A rhetorical question expressing incredulity or dissatisfaction, implicitly suggesting "Surely there must be..." or "Is there no other (true prophet remaining)?" The "still" (עוֹד, 'od) indicates continuity or a lingering possibility – implies a desperate hope for an authentic voice amidst the counterfeit ones already present.

• a prophet (נָבִיא, navi'): Refers to a spokesperson, one called by God to convey His message. This term carries divine authority. Jehoshaphat uses this term carefully to imply someone speaking God's actual will, not merely predicting or offering human opinion.

• of the LORD (לַיהוָה, laYHWH): This is the crucial qualifier. It specifies the God of Israel, YHWH (Yahweh), distinguishing His true prophets from the multitude of prophets associated with Baal, Asherah, or any other deities, as well as those who might claim YHWH but speak falsely. It signifies fidelity to the covenant God.

• here (פֹה, po): Denotes the immediate vicinity, either the court or Samaria/Israel. Jehoshaphat questions if among all the prophets accessible, none are truly legitimate for Yahweh.

• that we may inquire of him (וְנִדְרְשָׁה אֹתוֹ, venidresha' oto): The verb (דָּרַשׁ, darash) means "to seek," "to consult," "to inquire," often specifically in the context of seeking divine counsel (e.g., in worship, seeking direction, or studying scripture). It signifies a genuine desire for guidance directly from God's spokesperson, not simply validation of pre-conceived plans.

• Words-group Analysis:

  • "But Jehoshaphat said, 'Is there not still...'": This opening reveals Jehoshaphat's sharp spiritual discernment despite being allied with Ahab. He perceives the collective deceit of the 400 "prophets" and refuses to accept their comfortable yet hollow predictions. It indicates his deep unease with the spiritual atmosphere of Ahab's court.
  • "a prophet of the LORD here": This phrase highlights the critical distinction between true prophecy from the covenant God of Israel (Yahweh) and the corrupted or false prophecy common in Israel under Ahab's reign. It underscores the theological battle between pure Yahwism and the syncretistic practices pervasive in the Northern Kingdom, which often mingled Baal worship with distorted Yahwistic practices. Jehoshaphat insists on authenticity, not mere affirmation.
  • "that we may inquire of him?": This emphasizes the purpose of consulting a true prophet: to genuinely seek God's will and direction. It reflects a desire for divine wisdom and underscores the principle of relying on God for guidance in major undertakings, as opposed to relying on human schemes or false assurances.

1 Kings 22 7 Bonus section

• The overwhelming number of 400 "prophets" supporting Ahab's plan might initially appear convincing. However, their uniformity in affirming the king's desired outcome served as a red flag for Jehoshaphat, who recognized that genuine divine messages often challenge human desires and reveal uncomfortable truths (as evidenced by Micaiah's subsequent prophecy). This subtly highlights that consensus does not equate to divine truth.
• Jehoshaphat's persistent request, even after being presented with such a large group, showcases the importance of discernment in spiritual matters. It's a reminder that true spiritual leaders should always direct individuals to God's authentic word, even if it contradicts prevailing popular opinion or the will of powerful figures.
• The polemic within the verse is against both false prophets and kings who cultivate them. It challenges the idea that rulers can manipulate divine revelation for their own agenda. True prophecy cannot be purchased, forced, or coerced to align with human ambitions; it flows from Yahweh's sovereign will.

1 Kings 22 7 Commentary

This verse is the turning point in 1 Kings 22. Jehoshaphat, despite his ill-advised alliance with Ahab, demonstrates commendable spiritual sensitivity. When faced with 400 "prophets" who deliver an unnervingly unanimous and politically convenient message of success, he rightly suspects their authenticity. His simple question—"Is there not still a prophet of the LORD here?"—lays bare the spiritual bankruptcy of Ahab's court. It points to a deep spiritual longing for genuine divine communication in a context rife with flattery and deceit. Jehoshaphat's query isn't merely for another opinion, but for the definitive, unadulterated word of the true God, Yahweh, a word he knew might be unpopular but would ultimately be true. This discerning moment showcases the enduring biblical principle of testing spirits and valuing divine truth over human consensus, comfort, or political expediency. It prefigures the appearance of Micaiah, who embodies the fearless and truth-telling prophet Jehoshaphat sought.