Book of 2 Kings - Chapter 9 - Verse 13

When Jehu was anointed as king of Israel, his fellow commanders quickly showed their allegiance by rushing to gather their garments and placing them under him on the top of the stairs. This act symbolized their submission to Jehu as their new king. By blowing trumpets and proclaiming that Jehu is king, they publicly declared his ascension to the throne. This scene depicts a moment of intense political and religious significance, as Jehu's rise to power had been prophesied by a divine command to overthrow the previous ruling dynasty. The immediacy and organization of the commanders in their actions emphasize the speed and decisiveness with which they recognized and embraced Jehu as their new leader. This episode signals the beginning of a new era in Israel, marked by the reign of Jehu and the fulfillment of divine will in the political affairs of the nation.

When examining the theological interpretation of the verse "Then they hasted, and took every man his garment, and put it under him on the top of the stairs, and blew with trumpets, saying, Jehu is king," it is crucial to consider the significance of the actions taken by the people in proclaiming Jehu as king. The act of placing their garments under him on the stairs can be seen as a symbol of submission and respect towards Jehu's newfound authority as king. Additionally, the blowing of the trumpets served as a traditional way to announce and publicize the crowning of a new king throughout the land. This verse highlights the importance of obedience and recognition of God-appointed leaders, as Jehu's kingship was seen as a divine appointment to bring about necessary changes in the nation. By understanding the cultural and historical context of these actions, we can gain a deeper insight into the theological implications of this verse and its relevance in the larger narrative of Israelite kingship.