When Ahab heard that Naboth was dead, Ahab rose up to go down to the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite, to take possession of it.
ExplanationCommentary
Verse 16. Of it, on the title of confiscation, as Naboth had been condemned for high treason; (see 2 Kennicott. 9:7. Menochius.) or because there was no heir left, verse 10. Some assert, that Naboth was Achab’s uncle. But this wants proof. Calmet.—Achab only waited one day, and the Elias met him to denounce to him a similar fate after he was dead. 4 Kennicott. 9:26. Septuagint have, “he tore this garments, and put on sackcloth; and it came to pass afterwards, that Achab arose,” and so forth This addition would intimate that the king pretended to be sorry. They repeat the same thing, verse 27. “he had put on sackcloth, on the day when he slew Naboth, and went along cast down.” It is probable that Achab might assume this garb, to make people suppose that he had no hand in the death of Naboth; but this was all hypocrisy, and Elias boldly accused him of guilt. Thou hast slain, and so forth verse 19. Bible.—He knew, at least, of his wife’s machinations. Salien.