1 Kings 14:10

Therefore, behold, I will bring evil upon the house of Jeroboam, and will cut off from Jeroboam him that pisseth against the wall, and him that is shut up and left in Israel, and will take away the remnant of the house of Jeroboam, as a man taketh away dung, till it be all gone.

1 Kings 14:10 (KJV)

Context

God sent the prophet Ahijah to Jeroboam, the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel. Jeroboam had turned from the Lord and led the people into idolatry by setting up golden calves at Bethel and Dan (1 Kings 12:28-30). Because of this, God pronounced judgment on Jeroboam and his household.

Meaning

The phrase “him that pisseth against the wall” is a Hebrew idiom for every male. It means that no male in Jeroboam’s family would be left alive. The words “shut up and left in Israel” describe those confined in cities or prisons and those free, showing that no male would escape, whether bond or free.

The final phrase uses a vivid picture: God would take away the remnant of Jeroboam’s house “as a man taketh away dung, till it be all gone.” This shows complete and total removal. Nothing of Jeroboam’s family would remain.

Biblical connections

God had exalted Jeroboam from among the people and made him prince over Israel, but Jeroboam did not follow God as David did. Instead, he made other gods and molten images to provoke God to anger (1 Kings 14:7-9). This judgment is the direct result of that unfaithfulness.

Application

This verse warns that leaders who lead others into sin face severe consequences. It also reminds us that God sees disobedience and will act against it. The call is to remain faithful to God’s commands and to repent when we stray.

Reflection

God’s judgment is certain and thorough, but His mercy is also available through repentance. Jeroboam’s story urges us to examine our own hearts and to turn back to God before it is too late.