The Prophet Who Would Not Flatter

After three years of peace with Syria, Ahab wanted to retake Ramoth Gilead. Jehoshaphat king of Judah agreed to join him but asked first to inquire of the Lord. Ahab gathered about four hundred prophets, who all said to go up because the Lord would deliver the city into the king's hand. One prophet, Zedekiah, made iron horns as a sign.

Jehoshaphat asked if there was another prophet of the Lord. Ahab named Micaiah but said he hated him, because Micaiah never prophesied good about him. Micaiah declared that as the Lord lives, he would speak what the Lord told him. He saw all Israel scattered on the mountains like sheep without a shepherd. He described a vision of the Lord's throne and said the prophets were deceived. Ahab ordered him imprisoned until he returned in peace. Micaiah answered that if Ahab returned in peace, the Lord had not spoken by him.

Ahab disguised himself in battle, but Jehoshaphat wore his royal robes. A man drew his bow at random and struck Ahab between the joints of his armor. Ahab died that evening, and the word of the Lord came true. Jehoshaphat reigned twenty-five years and did right like Asa. Ahab's son Ahaziah became king of Israel and served Baal.