Useful Bible Studies > 2 Kings Commentary > chapter 9
At last, Jehu had told his secret to the other commanders. The young man who came to him really was a prophet, a holy man. On behalf of God, he had appointed Jehu king of Israel.
The other commanders of Israel’s army saw at once that they had no opportunity to think about this matter or to discuss it. If God had appointed Jehu, they would not be able to stand against him. Rather, it was their duty, as the leaders of the army, to bring that army and the whole country under Jehu’s rule.
In addition, Jehu was already their leader. They knew that he was a capable and powerful man. The present king, Joram, had not ruled well. So, the commanders wanted to support Jehu. In fact, they wanted to make an immediate declaration, in public, of their support for Jehu as king. Then, everyone in Ramoth-Gilead would know that the revolution had begun. There must be no delay.
Their meeting was, perhaps, in the large room above the city’s gate, the only entrance into Ramoth-Gilead (compare 2 Samuel 18:33). The men placed their own coats on the ground for Jehu to walk over, to show his authority over them (compare Mark 11:8). He then took his place at the top of the steps – in other words, in a high position. That was to show that honour was due to him. It was like a throne, a king’s seat. Then they blew a trumpet, their loudest musical instrument, so that everyone would know. Joyfully, they declared Jehu to be king.
Then, at once, the commanders locked and guarded the gate (9:15). They would not permit anyone to leave the city.
Next part: Jehu goes quickly to Jezreel (2 Kings 9:14-16)
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