16:31 he took for his wife Jezebel. This marriage of Omri’s son to Ethbaal’s daughter may have been arranged by Omri for diplomatic reasons. Jezebel’s presence gave official support in Israel to the worship of Baal.

served Baal. “Baal” means “lord,” “husband.” Baal was a storm god, a dominant deity in Canaanite religion. He was considered instrumental in bringing life-giving rains and fertility to the land.