Definition: And Ahab came into his house heavy and displeased because of the word which Naboth the Jezreelite had spoken to him: for he had said, I will not give thee the inheritance of my fathers. And he laid him down upon his bed, and turned away his face, and would eat no bread.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 1 Kings 21:4 together. It’s a really important story about injustice and betrayal. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Naboth’s Inheritance: Naboth was a wealthy man who owned a significant portion of the land in Israel. He entrusted this land to King Ahab, as a gift to his family. Ahab’s Anger: Ahab, King of Israel, became very angry with Naboth because he refused to give him the land's inheritance. He felt it was wrong for Naboth to possess such wealth. Ahab’s Actions: Ahab, in a fit of rage, ordered his servants to lie and deceive Naboth. He told him that he would not give Naboth the land. Naboth’s Reaction: Naboth, feeling betrayed and humiliated, became very upset and lay down on his bed. He refused to eat bread or anything else, showing his distress and sadness. What it Means – A Simple Explanation: This verse describes a moment of intense anger and betrayal. Ahab was deliberately trying to steal Naboth’s inheritance. He used deception and lies to get what he wanted. “Heavy and displeased”: Ahab wasn't just angry; he was very upset. It shows how deeply he resented Naboth. “The word which Naboth the Jezreelite had spoken to him”: This is key! Naboth was told by his father, a prominent figure in Israel, that he wouldn’t give him the land. This was a crucial part of his inheritance. “He laid him down upon his bed, and turned away his face…” - Naboth was physically resting and emotionally withdrawn. He was refusing to engage with the situation. “And would eat no bread”: This is the most heartbreaking part. His refusal to eat meant he was completely isolated and suffering. It symbolized a loss of faith and hope. Why it's Significant: This story shows that even powerful kings can be driven by greed and malice. It highlights the importance of honesty, trust, and respecting others’ property rights. It also demonstrates the potential for betrayal and how it can affect people – in this case, a man who was once respected. In essence, this verse is a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and the need to honor what belongs to others. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this passage? Discuss the meaning of a specific symbol (like the bed)? Connect it to other stories or biblical themes?