Definition: Then Jehu came forth to the servants of his lord: and [one] said unto him, [Is] all well? wherefore came this mad [fellow] to thee? And he said unto them, Ye know the man, and his communication.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Kings 9:11. It’s a really strange and unsettling passage in the Book of Judges, and it's full of symbolism and a lot of mystery. Here’s what it essentially means, explained simply: The Basic Situation: Jehu is in trouble: The verse immediately tells us that Jehu, a powerful king, has been falsely accused of wrongdoing – specifically, murdering his brothers. He’s being investigated by the judges and is facing serious consequences. He’s asking a question: Jehu isn't just complaining; he’s asking a crucial question: "Is everything alright?" This suggests he’s deeply troubled and worried about the situation. What “Mad Fellow” Means (and Why It’s So Odd): This is where it gets interesting. The word “mad” isn't used in the original Hebrew text. The translator, Robert Anderson, interpreted it as meaning "a foolish person" or "someone who is lost." It’s a metaphorical way of saying someone is behaving erratically and possibly delusional. Putting it Together - A Possible Interpretation: Jehu’s question isn't about actual problems; it's about his own mental state. He’s grappling with the weight of what he's done, perhaps feeling guilt or a strange sense of responsibility for his actions. He's asking "Is everything alright?" to try and understand if he is still in control of himself. Symbolic Meaning - The Verse as a Whole: The verse isn’t necessarily about Jehu being mad. It's more about the state of his mind. It points to a moment when: He’s lost his way: He’s become consumed by anger and perhaps has misplaced his judgment. His perspective is skewed: He's focusing on what he perceives as wrong, rather than understanding the bigger picture or truth. Important Note: This is just one interpretation of the verse. It’s a complex passage that has been debated for centuries. --- In short, this verse portrays Jehu as someone struggling with his own thoughts and perhaps a moment of disorientation. It’s a symbolic representation of a king wrestling with guilt or confusion. Do you want me to: Explain another part of the text? Discuss the possible historical context?