Old Testament
1 Kings 16:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The word of the LORD came through the prophet Jehu, son of Hanani, against Baasha and his house. This was because of all the evil Baasha did in the sight of the LORD, provoking Him to anger with his actions, like the house of Jeroboam, and because he killed him.
Compare translations
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.
What 1 Kings 16:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, the prophet Jehu delivers a message from God about King Baasha and his family. Baasha had committed many wrongdoings that angered God. His actions were compared to those of Jeroboam, who also led the people away from God. Baasha's evil deeds included killing the previous king, which further provoked God's anger. This message serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from God's ways. It highlights the importance of living righteously and the impact of our choices. The passage reminds us that God sees our actions and holds us accountable for them. Ultimately, it emphasizes that our decisions can lead to serious repercussions, both for ourselves and those around us. Understanding this can help us reflect on our own lives and the paths we choose to take, encouraging us to seek a life that aligns with God's will and purpose for us. We are invited to consider how our actions affect our relationship with God and others, urging us to choose wisely.
How to apply 1 Kings 16:7 to your life
Reflect on your own actions and their impact on your life and relationships. Consider how your choices align with your values and beliefs. Strive to make decisions that honor your commitments and lead to positive outcomes. Remember that every action has consequences, and choose wisely in your daily life. Seek guidance in making choices that reflect goodness and integrity.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Kings Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: Faithful at the King's Table (Daniel 1:1–21)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Daniel

Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about 1 Kings 16:7
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying 1 Kings 16:7
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of 1 Kings
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Kings 16:7 mean?
1 Kings 16:7 conveys a message from God delivered by the prophet Jehu, condemning King Baasha for his evil actions that angered God. It highlights the consequences of Baasha's choices, particularly his comparison to Jeroboam and the murder of the previous king.
What is the significance of Baasha in 1 Kings 16:7?
Baasha is significant in 1 Kings 16:7 as he represents a king whose actions led to God's anger due to his evil deeds. His reign is marked by wrongdoing, and his comparison to Jeroboam emphasizes the ongoing cycle of disobedience among Israel's leaders.
What does provoking God to anger mean in 1 Kings 16:7?
Provoking God to anger in 1 Kings 16:7 refers to actions that go against God's will and commandments, leading to divine displeasure. Baasha's evil deeds, including idolatry and murder, exemplify behaviors that provoke God's judgment.
What warning does 1 Kings 16:7 provide?
1 Kings 16:7 serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from God's ways and engaging in evil actions. It emphasizes that leaders and individuals alike are accountable for their choices and the impact those choices have on their relationship with God.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.