Question 1

What does 1 Kings 16:20 mean?

Accepted Answer

1 Kings 16:20 says that the rest of Zimri’s actions and the details of his betrayal are recorded in another historical book called "the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel." This verse tells the reader that more information about Zimri’s rule and his rebellion can be found in that official record. This statement comes at the end of a brief account about Zimri, a king of Israel who reigned for only seven days after committing treason. The writer is summarizing Zimri’s story and pointing readers to another source for further details. In the context of 1 Kings, this is a common way the author wraps up the account of each king, signaling the transition to the next ruler.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 1 Kings 16:20

Accepted Answer

"Treason" (קֶשֶׁר, qesher) means a conspiracy or plot, especially against a ruler. Here, it highlights that Zimri’s rise to power was through betrayal, not a normal succession. "Wrought" (כָּשַׁה, kashah) is often used for doing or making, but in this context, it refers to the act Zimri committed—his betrayal. "Chronicles" (דִּבְרֵי, divrei; יָמִים, yamim) literally means "words" or "events" and "days." Together, they refer to records or annals, emphasizing that this was an official, ongoing record of the kings’ deeds.

Question 3

Why 1 Kings 16:20 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse clarifies that the biblical account is selective and that more detailed records existed, showing the Bible’s focus on key events rather than exhaustive history. By calling Zimri’s actions "treason," the verse underlines the seriousness of his crime and the instability in Israel’s leadership at the time. The mention of the "book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel" connects this story to a broader historical tradition, reminding readers that these events were part of a larger national record.

1 Kings 16:20 (KJV)