Overview
Hiel of Bethel rebuilt the city of Jericho during the reign of King Ahab, directly violating Joshua's curse. God's judgment fell upon Hiel as his sons died during the reconstruction, fulfilling the prophecy spoken centuries earlier. This account reveals God's unwavering commitment to His spoken word across generations.
Key Scriptures
"In his days Hiel of Bethel built Jericho. He laid its foundation at the cost of Abiram his firstborn, and set up its gates at the cost of his youngest son Segub, according to the word of the Lord, which he spoke by Joshua the son of Nun" (1 Kings 16:34, ESV).
"Joshua laid an oath on them at that time, saying, 'Cursed before the Lord be the man who rises up and rebuilds this city, Jericho. At the cost of his firstborn shall he lay its foundation, and at the cost of his youngest son shall he set up its gates'" (Joshua 6:26, ESV).
Application
We must take God's Word seriously, recognizing that His commands and warnings remain binding across time and circumstances.