Jezebel is by far one of the most evil queens in the Bible, known for her association with idolatry, manipulation, and sexual immorality. This blog post delves into the life and influence of Jezebel, exploring the signs of this spirit in action and how to guard against it. Let us examine the “Jezebel spirit” as warned in the Book of Revelation, and deepen our understanding.
Who Was Jezebel in the Bible?
Jezebel was a Phoenician princess who married King Ahab of Israel. Her marriage to Ahab is documented in 1 Kings 16:31, where it is noted that Ahab’s decision to marry Jezebel and worship Baal led him to do more evil in the sight of the Lord than any of his forefathers. Jezebel’s influence on Ahab’s reign was significant, promoting the worship of Baal and Asherah, and leading Israel away from the worship of Yahweh, the God of Israel.
Baal and Asherah
The worship of Baal and Asherah were forms of demonic worship that involved animal and child sacrifice, food offerings, and sexual rituals. These demonic idols were said to endorse fertility, agriculture, and prosperity. Their rituals included sacrifices, erecting poles and altars with communal feasts, and sexual rites. All of which was an abomination in the eyes of the Lord.
Jezebel’s Influence on Ahab’s Reign
King Ahab, described in 1 Kings 16:30 as doing “more evil in the eyes of the Lord than any of those before him,” was heavily influenced by Jezebel. She was dedicated to Baal worship and did not hesitate to use her power to support the prophets of Baal while persecuting the prophets of the Lord (Yahweh). This led to a severe internal conflict within Israel, as the true prophets of God, including Elijah and later Elisha, whom found themselves in direct opposition to the royal couple.
Baal Worship and Jezebel’s Role
Baal worship was a central aspect of Jezebel’s agenda. She was determined to establish the worship of Baal as the state religion, which directly challenged the worship of God (Yahweh). This religious conflict is vividly illustrated in the Bible, particularly in the confrontations between Jezebel and the prophet Elijah. In 1 Kings 18, Elijah challenges 450 prophets of Baal to a contest on Mount Carmel to prove whose god is real. The prophets of Baal fail miserably, while God answers Elijah’s prayer by sending fire from heaven. This event was a direct challenge to Jezebel’s authority and her religious policies.
The Confrontation Between Jezebel and Elijah
The tension between Jezebel and Elijah is one of the most dramatic narratives in the Bible. After the showdown at Mount Carmel, Jezebel vows to kill Elijah, to which he flees for his life (1 Kings 19:1-3). Despite her threats, Elijah continues his prophetic mission, condemning the royal couple’s actions and predicting their downfall. Elijah’s unwavering stand against Jezebel’s tyranny exemplifies the battle between the forces of Yahweh the one true living God and the promoters of Baal worship.
Naboth’s Vineyard and Jezebel’s Tyrannical Rule
One of the most notorious acts of Jezebel was orchestrating the death of Naboth, a righteous man who owned a vineyard that King Ahab coveted. When Naboth refused to sell his vineyard, Jezebel devised a scheme to have him falsely accused of blasphemy and stoned to death (1 Kings 21:1-16). This act of tyranny demonstrated Jezebel’s ruthless manipulation and disregard for justice, further solidifying her legacy as a villain in the biblical narrative.
The Downfall of Jezebel: Jehu’s Reign and the Prophecy of Elijah
Jezebel’s end was as dramatic as her life. Elijah had prophesied that dogs would devour Jezebel by the wall of Jezreel (1 Kings 21:23). This prophecy was fulfilled during the reign of Jehu, a commander anointed by the prophet Elisha to overthrow the house of Ahab. Jehu killed Jezebel by having her thrown from a window, and her body was trampled by horses and eaten by dogs (2 Kings 9:30-37). This gruesome end underscored the divine judgment upon Jezebel’s actions and fulfilled Elijah’s prophecy, serving as a stark warning of the consequences of idolatry and tyranny.
Significance of Jezebel’s Death in Biblical Narrative
Jezebel’s death marked the end of a significant chapter of corruption and idol worship in Israel’s history. Her demise was seen as divine retribution and a restoration of God’s justice. The dramatic fulfillment of Elijah’s prophecy demonstrated the sovereignty of God over the false gods and the ultimate triumph of righteousness over wickedness.
Jezebel the Villain
Jezebel is the epitome of evil and corruption. Her actions directly opposed the covenantal relationship between Israel and God. Her manipulation, idolatry, and persecution of the prophets were all factors that contributed to her portrayal as a villain. This characterization has had a lasting impact on how she is viewed in both religious and cultural contexts.
Jezebel’s Influence on Israel’s History
Jezebel’s influence on Israel’s history was profound. Her promotion of Baal worship led to significant religious conflict and contributed to the nation’s moral and spiritual decline. The subsequent reforms by her successors and the prophets sought to undo the damage caused by her reign, highlighting her lasting impact on Israel’s spiritual landscape.
Warnings in the Book of Revelation
The Book of Revelation contains a stern warning to the church at Thyatira regarding the spirit of Jezebel. Revelation 2:20-23 warns against tolerating the teachings of Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess and leads believers into sexual immorality and idolatry. This warning highlights the danger of allowing corrupt influences to infiltrate the church and encourages believers to hold fast to the true teachings of Christ.
The Spirit of Jezebel in Society
In modern times we can see the downfall of relationships and society because of the evil spirit of Jezebel. From politics to entertainment we see how the abuse of power and endorsing of self and idol worship has led the masses astray. In marriages when we see a woman who is dominating and emasculating her husband this is an example of the Jezebel spirit at work.
How Men Embody the Jezebel Spirit
While the term “Jezebel spirit” is traditionally associated with women, primarily due to the historical and biblical figure Jezebel, many theologians and religious thinkers assert that such a spirit can influence anyone, regardless of gender. The characteristics attributed to a Jezebel spirit—such as manipulativeness, control, deceit, and a rebellious nature—are not inherently gender-specific and can manifest in both men and women. Therefore, it is indeed possible for men to exhibit behaviors or traits that some might label as indicative of a Jezebel spirit. The idea is more about the nature of the behaviors and attitudes rather than the gender of the individual exhibiting them. We see the Jezebel spirit in homosexual and feminine men. Men who are heterosexual and have this spirit are quite abusive displaying controlling, manipulative, and abusive behavior as well as being overly sexualized.
The Modern Narcissist
The term ‘Narcissist’ has become very popular in diagnosing a person who is extremely self-obsessed, controlling, and manipulative. But the spirit behind this is the Jezebel spirit.
Here is a video of John Paul Jackson explaining the behaviour patterns of someone with the Jezebel Spirit.
Signs of the Jezebel Spirit
Before pointing fingers at others and going on a witch hunt, it is important to address these issues within ourselves first. Make sure you are honest with yourself and work on your own character first.
The Jezebel spirit once again is a spirit of control, manipulation, and rebellion against God’s authority. Signs of this spirit include:
– An insatiable desire for power and control.
– Manipulative behavior to achieve personal goals.
– Opposition to true worship and the prophetic word of God.
– Promoting idolatry and moral corruption.
– Want to be worshipped and admired.
– A relentless pursuit of one’s own agenda, even at the expense of others.
– Unwillingness to submit, always wanting to be in control and to lead.
– Seductive and unhealthy desire to be the center of attention
– Will play victim to manipulate the emotions of others.
– Unrepentant will never apologize, and always think they are right.
Opening Doors to the Jezebel Spirit: The Connection Between Idolatry, Religion, and Witchcraft
The Jezebel spirit seeks to control, manipulate, and corrupt individuals and communities. This spirit operates through various means, often manifesting through idolatry, false religion, and witchcraft. Understanding how people can open doors to the Jezebel spirit and recognizing the connection between these elements can help believers guard against its evil influence.
How People Open Doors to the Jezebel Spirit
1. Compromising Biblical Truth: One of the primary ways people open doors to the Jezebel spirit is by compromising on biblical truths. This can happen when individuals or communities start to endorse sexual immorality, having sex outside marriage or fornicating, masturbation, pornography, inappropriate dressing, and alternative spiritual practices over the clear teachings of the Bible. When the authority of Scripture is undermined, it opens the door to demonic attack.
2. Engaging in Idolatry: Idolatry, the worship of anything other than the one true God, is a significant way through which the Jezebel spirit gains a foothold. Today, idolatry can take many forms, even down to the extreme pursuit of wealth, power, and relationships without the acknowledgment of God as your foundation. Another common form of idolatry is self-glorification, the desire to magnify the attention on yourself, wanting to be worshipped and admired by others. Having statues of Hindu gods, buddhas, angels and other religious figures or false gods is a more traditional form of idolatry. However, it still happens even in this day and age. When any of these become the central focus of one’s life, it opens the door to spiritual attack.
3. Tolerating False Teachings: Allowing false teachings to go unchallenged within the church or personal life can invite the Jezebel spirit. Revelation 2:20-23 specifically warns against tolerating the woman Jezebel, who misleads believers into sexual immorality and idolatry. Embracing or tolerating teachings that contradict the core doctrines of Christianity can lead to spiritual deception and manipulation. You must read the bible for yourself to know if what you are hearing from someone who is in line with scripture. Many call themselves prophets and prophetesses who will say “The Lord said”… but these so-called messages or prophecies need to be measured against the word of God. Sharpening your gift of discernment will help avoid this type of deception.
4. Participating in Occult Practices: Engaging in occult practices, such as yoga, new age, wicca, crystal healing, reiki, transcendental meditation, astral projection, palm reading, tarot cards, astrology, witchcraft, and other forms of sorcery, directly invites the Jezebel spirit and a whole load of other demonic spirits. These practices are condemned in the Bible (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). Participation in such activities opens individuals to spiritual bondage and attack. You must repent, renounce, and remove any such things associated with these practices. In the book of Acts (Acts 19:19) those who practiced magic and sorcery burned all their incarnation books. You should also do the same.
5. Unforgiveness, Bitterness, and Rejection: Abuse and feelings of rejection can cause emotional wounds. When left unhealed they can become entry points for the Jezebel spirit. Harboring unforgiveness, bitterness, and resentment creates an environment where manipulation and control can thrive. Wanting to control everything to self-protect is an easy way for the Jezebel spirit to exploit these vulnerabilities to gain influence over individuals and relationships. Or even in your naivety, you may trust in a person who may have a Jezebel spirit. Discernment once again is important to avoid deception in your moments of weakness. Reading the bible strengthens your discernment and is crystal clear on what we should and what to avoid. This is why taking time to study the bible when you are feeling down, or confused instead of murmuring or complaining is the best action you can take towards healing and gaining clarity. Your obedience to God and his word is important to keeping the Jezebel spirit out of your life. Studying sonship and working on your relationship with God is a great healer.
The Connection Between Idolatry, Religion, and Witchcraft
Taking a deeper dive into the Jezebel spirit we understand it operates through a combination of idolatry, false religion, and witchcraft, each interconnected and reinforcing the other. Understanding these connections helps in recognizing and combating this spirit’s influence.
1. Idolatry: At its core, idolatry is where you honor or worship something in place or more than God. It involves elevating anything or anyone above God, which directly opposes the first commandment (Exodus 20:3). Today, idolatry can be more subtle, involving the undue prioritization of career, relationships, or personal success over one’s relationship with God. Even down race, ancestry, food, social media, or sports can become an idol. This idolatry creates a spiritual vacuum that the Jezebel spirit exploits to promote further deception and manipulation.
2. False Religion: False religion often goes hand-in-hand with idolatry. It involves the distortion of true worship and the adoption of practices and beliefs that contradict biblical teachings. Jezebel’s promotion of Baal worship included ritualistic practices that were abhorrent to God. Similarly, false religions today can lead individuals away from the truth of the gospel, introducing doctrines that accommodate sinful behaviors and promote spiritual bondage. Hinduism is a prime example.
3. Witchcraft: Witchcraft, or the practice of magic and sorcery, is another tool of the Jezebel spirit. It involves the manipulation of spiritual forces to achieve desired outcomes, often through rituals and spells. Witchcraft is fundamentally about control and power, which aligns with the manipulative nature of the Jezebel spirit. By engaging in witchcraft, individuals open themselves to demonic influences that seek to dominate and corrupt their lives.
Here is a video of Mark Driscoll going in further detail about the signs of Jezebel.
Ways Jezebel Operates Through These Elements
1. Manipulation and Control: The Jezebel spirit seeks to manipulate and control individuals and communities. This can be seen in how Jezebel manipulated King Ahab and orchestrated the murder of Naboth to seize his vineyard. In modern contexts, this manipulation can occur through charismatic leaders who lead people astray, emotional manipulation in relationships, or controlling behaviors that suppress true spiritual growth.
2. Deception and False Prophecy: Jezebel claimed to be a prophetess and led people into deception (Revelation 2:20). The Jezebel spirit often works through false prophecies and teachings that sound convincing but lead people away from biblical truth. This deception can infiltrate churches, relationships, and homes, leading people into spiritual compromise.
3. Promoting Immorality: Sexual immorality was a hallmark of Baal worship and is a significant aspect of the Jezebel spirit’s influence. By promoting immoral behavior (especially sexually immoral), the Jezebel spirit undermines the moral foundations of individuals and communities, leading to spiritual and relational destruction.
4. Opposition to True Worship: The Jezebel spirit actively opposes the true worship of God. This can be seen in Jezebel’s persecution of the prophets of God and her support for the prophets of Baal. Today, this opposition can manifest as hostility towards genuine spiritual leaders, attempts to discredit true prophetic voices, and efforts to disrupt authentic worship and prayer.
5. Rebels Against Submitting to Authority: Rebellion is the sin of witchcraft, the Jezebel spirit will not submit to Godly authority. There may be a short period of submitting to authority but only with the motive to corrupt the leadership and take control itself. Having ulterior motives for selfish gain, the Jezebel spirit will seek to find ways to get into a position of leadership in order to operate in its evil ways.
Jezebel and Ahab
For the Jezebel spirit to operate at its fullest it is usually in close relationship with the Ahab spirit. Although Ahab is passive he is just as bad as the Jezebel spirit. The Ahab spirit tolerates the control and manipulation of the Jezebel spirit and so the two of them are usually found working together.
Here’s a breakdown of the characteristics commonly associated with each.
Characteristics typically associated with a Jezebel spirit include:
Manipulation: Jezebel manipulated situations and people to achieve their goals. This often involves deceit and cunning tactics.
Control and Domination: This spirit seeks to control others in relationships, exerting undue influence to ensure their will is done.
Seduction and Enticement: This can involve using charm, flattery, or sexuality to influence others.
Idolatry and False Religion: Jezebel promoted the worship of Baal and other false gods, leading the people away from the one true living God.
Rebellion: Defiant and unyielding, particularly against God’s prophets, commandments, and people in authority.
Vindictiveness and Revenge: Ruthless particularly in seeking revenge against those who opposed them.
Characteristics typically associated with an Ahab spirit include:
King Ahab is often seen as embodying an “Ahab spirit,” which is characterized by weakness and passivity, particularly in relation to his wife Jezebel.
Passivity: Ahab often displayed a lack of initiative, allowing Jezebel to make decisions and take control, his behavior is akin to a little child refusing responsibility, which we see in a lot of young men in modern culture today, unfortunately.
Weakness in Leadership: Ahab failed to lead with strength and integrity, often capitulating to Jezebel’s demands and schemes. When a leader is passive and weak this is a bad sign.
Compromise: Ahab compromised his values and responsibilities as king, particularly in matters of faith and governance, to appease Jezebel and others.
Enabling: By not standing up to Jezebel, Ahab enabled her manipulative and destructive behaviors. Having no boundaries and enabling the toxic behaviors of others is a sign of an Ahab spirit.
Lack of Moral Courage: Ahab frequently showed a lack of resolve to do what was right, especially when faced with moral or ethical dilemmas.
Here is a great video explain the Ahab spirit even deeper by Mark Driscoll.
Combined Dynamics
When both spirits are at play, the dynamic often involves:
Toxic Relationship: The combination of Jezebel’s manipulative control and Ahab’s passivity can lead to a highly dysfunctional relationship dynamic.
Destructive Influence: Together, they can cause significant harm to those around them, promoting falsehoods and leading others astray.
Spiritual Degradation: This dynamic can lead to spiritual decline, as seen in the story of Israel under their rule, where idol worship and moral decay became rampant.
In a broader context, these terms are sometimes used in modern religious discourse to describe unhealthy relational dynamics or toxic behaviors in individuals or groups, regardless of gender.
Assessing Your Relationships
It’s good to make sure your relationships are in line with correct biblical principles and order. When a man is extremely passive and the woman takes far too much control and dominates in a relationship, this is not good. Or if any type of relationship where the leadership is controlling, manipulative, or toxic and another is simply tolerating the behavior to avoid conflict, this too is a problem. In marriage, the man is the head and should be submitted to Christ, and the woman is to submit to her man. This does not mean she is to be silenced or dishonored, she is to be loved and respected just as the man is to be loved and respected. However, it is not her position to be excessively controlling or manipulative. Men too should not abuse their position of authority to control or manipulate.
Guarding Against the Jezebel Spirit
To guard against the Jezebel spirit, it is crucial to remain vigilant and grounded in biblical truth. Here are some practical steps:
1. Commit to Biblical Truth: Regularly study the Bible and commit to live according to its teachings. This foundation will help you discern and reject false teachings.
2. Cultivate True Worship: Focus on worshiping God in spirit and truth (John 4:24). Avoid distractions that can lead to idolatry, this includes people, places, entertainment, and any other forms.
3. Sharpen Your Spiritual Discernment: Pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance to discern spirits and recognize the influence of the Jezebel spirit.
4. Avoid Occult Practices: Stay away from all forms of occult practices, including all that have been mentioned earlier.
5. Forgive and Heal: Address emotional and spiritual wounds through forgiveness and seeking God’s healing. This will prevent bitterness and resentment from taking root.
6. Submit to Godly Leadership: Uphold and submit to leaders who demonstrate godly character and biblical fidelity. Be wary of those who seek to manipulate or control.
7. Break Ungodly Soul Ties: Renounce all ungodly soul ties and covenants as well as fasting and praying to help this process of breaking free from toxic relationships.
Cultural Trends and Influences Reflecting Characteristics of the Jezebel Spirit: Encouraging Discernment and Spiritual Vigilance
The Jezebel spirit can be seen in various cultural trends and influences. Understanding these broader cultural dynamics can help believers practice discernment and maintain spiritual vigilance.
1. Celebrity and Idol Worship
Trend: The elevation of celebrities to near-godlike status reflects modern idolatry. Fans often emulate celebrities’ lifestyles, appearances, and behaviors, sometimes prioritizing these figures over biblical and moral principles.
Discernment: Believers should be cautious of placing undue importance on celebrities or leaders. While it’s natural to admire talent and success, it’s important to keep such admiration in balance, ensuring it does not overshadow one’s relationship with God. When you start imitating another’s behavior or appearance this is usually an indication you have made them an idol.
2. Sexual Immorality and Exploitation
Trend: Mainstream media, including music, television, and movies, often glorify sexual promiscuity and exploitative relationships. This normalization of sexual immorality can desensitize individuals to behaviors that contradict biblical teachings.
Discernment: Believers are called to uphold sexual purity and honor in their relationships. Being selective about media consumption and setting personal boundaries can help maintain integrity and honor God in this area.
3. Manipulative and Controlling Behaviors
Trend: Reality TV and social media can promote manipulative and controlling behaviors as a means to achieve fame and success. Shows that reward deceitful tactics and social media influencers who manipulate their followers for personal gain exemplify this trend.
Discernment: Recognize and avoid content that glorifies manipulation and control. Instead, focus on fostering genuine, transparent relationships that reflect Christlike humility and integrity.
4. New Age Spirituality and Occult Practices
Trend: The rise of New Age spirituality and occult practices, such as astrology, crystal healing, and tarot reading, reflects a growing interest in alternative spiritualities that often deviate from or oppose Christian beliefs.
Discernment: Believers should ground their spirituality in the Bible and be wary of engaging in practices that open doors to spiritual deception. Staying informed about the origins and implications of these practices can aid in avoiding spiritual pitfalls.
5. Relativism and Moral Ambiguity
Trend: Cultural relativism, the idea that moral and ethical truths are not absolute but vary by individual or society, can lead to moral ambiguity and the erosion of clear, biblical standards of right and wrong.
Discernment: Uphold the absolute truths of Scripture in personal and communal life. Engage in conversations that lovingly challenge moral relativism and offer the clarity and hope of biblical ethics.
6. Materialism and Consumerism
Trend: The pervasive emphasis on material success and consumerism encourages individuals to find their worth in possessions and wealth rather than in their identity in Christ.
Discernment: Practice contentment and generosity, focusing on eternal values rather than temporary material gains. Regularly reassess priorities to ensure that wealth and possessions do not become idols.
7. Political and Social Manipulation
Trend: Political and social movements sometimes use manipulation and fear-mongering to control public opinion and behavior. This can create division and distract believers from their primary allegiance to God’s kingdom.
Discernment: Stay informed about political and social issues but avoid becoming entangled in manipulative tactics. Seek God’s wisdom in navigating these realms, prioritizing love, justice, and truth over partisan agendas.
8. Glorification of Self and Autonomy
Trend: Modern culture often glorifies self-sufficiency, autonomy, and self-promotion, encouraging people to prioritize their desires and ambitions above all else. This can lead to narcissism and a diminished sense of community and service.
Discernment: Embrace the biblical call to humility, service, and community. Recognize that true fulfillment comes from living in accordance with God’s will and serving others, rather than pursuing self-centered goals.
Encouraging Spiritual Vigilance
1. Regular Scripture Study: Immersing oneself in the Bible is crucial for discernment. Understanding God’s word helps believers identify and resist cultural influences that contradict biblical principles.
2. Prayer and Spiritual Discernment: Consistent prayer and seeking the Holy Spirit’s guidance are essential for spiritual vigilance. Praying for discernment can help believers navigate cultural complexities with wisdom.
3. Accountability and Community: Engaging with a faith community provides support and accountability. Discussing cultural challenges and encouraging one another helps maintain a collective commitment to biblical values.
4. Critical Media Consumption: Evaluate media content critically. Ask questions about the underlying messages and values being promoted and choose to engage with content that aligns with biblical ethics.
5. Setting Boundaries: Establish personal and family boundaries to protect against harmful cultural influences. This might include setting limits on screen time, avoiding certain types of media, and fostering activities that promote spiritual growth.
Conclusion
The Jezebel spirit’s characteristics—manipulation, control, idolatry, and immorality—can be seen in various cultural trends and influences. By practicing discernment and spiritual vigilance, believers can navigate these challenges, ensuring their lives reflect the values and principles of their faith. Staying grounded in Scripture, engaging in prayer, participating in a faith community, critically evaluating media, and setting personal boundaries are all practical steps to guard against the pervasive influence of such cultural trends.