MPV Commentary

Zimri's Conspiracy.

9-12 Zimri conspired against his king, Baasha, with the help of Arza, who was in charge of the palace. During a wild party at Arza's house, Zimri killed Baasha and took control of the kingdom for himself. He then tried to secure his position by killing all the members of the royal family.

15-18 News of Zimri's conspiracy spread quickly, and the army declared Omri their new king. Omri immediately lifted the siege at Gibbethon and marched towards the capital where Zimri had set up his throne. Seeing that he couldn't hold out against the entire kingdom, Zimri barricaded himself in the palace and set it on fire rather than let Omri capture him and take control of the royal treasures.

19 This violent end was a fitting punishment for Zimri's crimes. His decision to continue Jeroboam's idolatrous practices was a major factor in his downfall. This could have been evident from his past actions or from the decrees he issued when he took power, where he attempted to win popularity by promising to maintain the calf worship.

21-22 The people of Israel were now divided into two factions. This division led to four years of civil war (compare 1Ki 16:15 with 1Ki 16:23). While some people may have seen Omri as a legitimate ruler, many others opposed his election and supported Tibni instead. However, the army ultimately prevailed, and Omri became the undisputed king.

22 Tibni died, but it's unclear whether his death was violent or natural.