In the Bible, in the books of Kings and Chronicles, we find several instances of powerful and symbolic deaths through the use of arrows. These deaths often carry significant meaning and foreshadow the fall of great rulers. Examples are the demise of King Ahab, his son Joram of Israel, King Ahaziah of Judah, and King Josiah.
King Ahab
King Ahab, the seventh king of Israel, was killed by an arrow according to the Bible. Ahab was known for his idolatry and disobedience to God’s commands. During a battle with the Arameans or Syrians, a random arrow struck him between the scale armor and the breastplate, fulfilling the prophecy of his death by Micaiah. This event is recorded in 1 Kings 22:29-30.
King Joram of Israel
Jehu, inspired by Elisha’s anointing, staged a coup against King Joram of Israel. While King Joram was at Jezreel to heal from the wounds he incurred from battle. When King Joram learned of the coup, though too late, fled for his life and so did his ally, Ahaziah of Judah. While Joram was fleeing, Jehu drew his bow with his full strength and shot King Joram between the shoulders such that the arrow pierced his heart, and he sank in his chariot and died. Jehu had Bidkar, his chariot officer, take King Joram’s body and throw it on the plot of ground belonging to Naboth, whom King Ahab and Jezebel killed.
King Ahaziah of Judah
King Ahaziah of Judah ascended to the throne after the death of his father, King Jehoram, and ruled for just one year. During his reign, Ahaziah allied with King Joram of Israel, which ultimately led to his downfall. While visiting Jehoram in Jezreel, Ahaziah fell into a conspiracy and coup made by Jehu against King Joram of Israel. These two kings learned of the conspiracy too late and while King Ahaziah was trying to make a run for it, Jehu had his men pursue him and archers shot him in his chariot at a place called Gur. But he continued his escape until he got to Megiddo where he succumbed to his injuries and died, marking the end of his short-lived reign.
King Josiah
King Josiah died in battle against Pharaoh Neco of Egypt. The battle took place at Megiddo, a strategic location in the ancient Near East. Despite Josiah’s efforts to prevent Neco from passing through his territory, the king of Judah was fatally wounded by a random arrow during the battle. He was taken back to Jerusalem, where he died from his injuries. The death of King Josiah marked the end of a significant era in the history of Judah.