Definition: Then he sent out a second on horseback, which came to them, and said, Thus saith the king, [Is it] peace? And Jehu answered, What hast thou to do with peace? turn thee behind me.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Kings 9:19. It's a really dramatic and unsettling passage from the Book of Judges. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Jehu is facing a terrible situation: Jehu was a powerful king, but he had been betrayed by his own people. They conspired to kill him and his family. A messenger arrives with a challenge: A royal messenger arrives and says, "Thus saith the King: Is peace?" This is a very serious question. Jehu responds with defiance: Jehu immediately replies, “What hast thou to do with peace? Turn thee behind me!” Let’s unpack it layer by layer: “Thus saith the king…” : This is Jehu speaking, and he's making a statement of importance. “[Is it] peace?” : This isn't a question of actual peace – that hasn't happened yet. It’s a test. The King is asking if there is any peace in the situation. “And Jehu answered, What hast thou to do with peace? turn thee behind me.” : This is where it gets intense. Jehu is completely rejecting the idea of peace. He's refusing to acknowledge that there’s any possibility of reconciliation or forgiveness. He's saying "I have nothing to do with peace! I will not give you anything." What does this verse mean? This is a very strong and defiant response from Jehu. It suggests several things: Jehu is unwilling to be passive: He’s deliberately choosing to stand his ground against the injustice of the conspirators. He's prioritizing revenge over reconciliation: His immediate reaction isn’t about finding a solution, it's about actively resisting peace. It speaks to a larger conflict: The verse sets the stage for a much bigger battle – the King’s wrath against those who sought to harm him. It suggests that Jehu is setting the stage for a dramatic and potentially violent confrontation. In essence, this verse portrays a king who is determined to maintain his power and refuses to yield to any possibility of forgiveness or reconciliation. --- Do you want me to: Explain the context surrounding this verse? Discuss the significance of Jehu’s actions in the larger story of the book? Compare it to a similar situation from another Bible passage?