In the Old Testament, one of the most wicked and powerful kings of northern Israel. He married Jezebel, a Sidonian princess, through whose influence the worship of Baal and Ashtaroth was established in Israel (1 Kgs. 16: 29-33; 2 Kgs. 3: 2) and an attempt was made to do away with the prophets and the worship of Jehovah (1 Kgs. 18: 13).

Reigned over Israel in Samaria twenty and two years, 1 Kgs. 16: 29 (1 Kgs. 16-22). Did evil in the sight of the Lord above all that were before him, 1 Kgs. 16: 30. Was slain in battle, 1 Kgs. 22: 29-40.