Though all of the kings of the ten northern tribes of Israel were bad kings, Ahab was said to have been worse than any who had come before him. (I Kings 16:30)  To compound his evil, he married Jezebel, daughter of Eth-baal, king of Sidon.  He was a Gentile and a worshiper of Baal, and his daughter faithfully followed the religion of her father.  Ahab allowed Jezebel to lead him into joining her in the pagan worship of Baal.  Like Solomon, he built a place of worship for Baal in the city of Samaria, the capitol of Israel.  It is sad that Ahab was supposed to be the leader of God's people, yet he married a woman of the world who led him into idolatry.

Not only was Ahab evil, he was a spoiled child.  Naboth was a neighbor to Ahab's palace at Jezreel. Next to Ahab's palace was a beautiful vineyard owned by Naboth.  Ahab decided he had to have this vineyard, so he offered Naboth two options.  Ahab would give Naboth a better vineyard in exchange, or he would pay a reasonable price for it.  Naboth said no to both offers, because it was his inheritance from his ancestors.  He said, "The Lord forbid that I should give the inheritance of my fathers to you!" (I Kings 21:3)

Ahab was so upset that he lay on his bed with his face to the wall, refusing to eat.  The mighty King Ahab was acting like a baby.  Jezebel saw him and asked him what the problem was.  He told her the words of Naboth.  She responded, "Arise, eat food, and let your heart be cheerful; I will give you the vineyard of Naboth." (I Kings 21:7)  Jezebel developed a scheme, and it showed how truly wicked this woman was.  She commanded that the elders of the city proclaim a feast to honor Naboth, and have two scoundrels come in and make false accusations against him.  They did so, and Naboth was stoned to death because of the accusations.

Jezebel proved to be a wicked woman with no conscience who led her husband along in wickedness.  Ahab was no better because as soon as he heard that Naboth was dead, he went to take possession.  He had no remorse, but seemed to be joyful.  It was in the vineyard that Ahab met the man who was to be his nemesis for many years to come.  The prophet Elijah was sent by God to rebuke him for this evil deed.  I will write more later about this great prophet of God and his relationship with evil King Ahab.