Old Testament
1 Kings 22:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The LORD asked, 'Who will persuade Ahab to go up and fall at Ramoth Gilead?' One suggested this, and another suggested that.
Compare translations
And the LORD said, Who shall persuade Ahab, that he may go up and fall at Ramothgilead? And one said on this manner, and another said on that manner.
What 1 Kings 22:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, God is seeking a way to lead King Ahab to his downfall at Ramoth Gilead. The scene reveals a divine council where various spirits offer their suggestions. This shows that God is in control, even over the decisions of kings. Ahab, known for his disobedience, is about to face the consequences of his choices. The dialogue highlights the complexity of divine will and human action. It reminds us that our decisions can lead us down paths we may not foresee. The question posed by God emphasizes the importance of accountability and the impact of our actions. Ultimately, this passage illustrates the tension between divine sovereignty and human free will, inviting us to reflect on our own lives and choices. Are we listening to the right voices in our lives, or are we being led astray by misleading influences? Understanding this dynamic can help us navigate our own decisions with wisdom and discernment, ensuring we align with what is truly good and right in our lives.
How to apply 1 Kings 22:20 to your life
Reflect on the voices you listen to in your life. Are they guiding you toward positive choices or leading you astray? Seek wisdom and discernment in your decisions, ensuring they align with your values and what is truly good. Remember, your choices have consequences that can shape your future significantly. Choose wisely and stay true to your path of integrity and purpose.
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 Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Noah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. 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.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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 22:20
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 22:20
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 22:20 mean?
1 Kings 22:20 describes a scene where God is seeking a way to lead King Ahab to his downfall at Ramoth Gilead. It illustrates the idea of divine control over human decisions and highlights the consequences of Ahab's disobedience.
What is the significance of God asking who will persuade Ahab in 1 Kings 22:20?
God's question emphasizes His sovereignty and the involvement of divine beings in influencing human actions. It shows that Ahab's fate is not just a result of his choices but also part of a larger divine plan.
What does the phrase 'one suggested this, and another suggested that' mean in 1 Kings 22:20?
This phrase indicates a discussion among spirits or heavenly beings about how to lead Ahab to his downfall. It reflects the complexity of decision-making in the spiritual realm and the various influences at play.
How does 1 Kings 22:20 relate to the themes of accountability and consequences?
The verse highlights that Ahab's decisions have led him to a point of accountability, where he must face the consequences of his actions. It serves as a warning about the importance of making wise choices.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.