This verse, 1 Kings 16:6, is a formulaic summary statement marking the end of King Baasha's reign and the beginning of his son Elah's. Let's break it down:
"Baasha slept with his fathers...": This is a euphemism for death. It doesn't literally mean he slept, but rather he died and joined his ancestors in death. It's a common phrase used in the Old Testament to indicate the death of a king or significant figure.
"...and was buried in Tirzah;": Tirzah was the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel at this time. So, it simply means he was buried in the royal burial grounds in his capital city. This emphasizes his status as king.
"...and Elah his son reigned in his place.": This indicates the succession of power. Baasha's son, Elah, took over the throne and became the new king after his father's death. The phrase "reigned in his place" emphasizes the transfer of authority.
In essence, the verse is a concise transition statement, informing the reader that Baasha has died and his son Elah has become the new king of Israel. These kinds of statements are typical of the historical books of the Old Testament, providing a chronological framework and marking the reigns of different kings.
This verse, 1 Kings 16:6, is a formulaic summary statement marking the end of King Baasha's reign and the beginning of his son Elah's. Let's break it down:
"Baasha slept with his fathers...": This is a euphemism for death. It doesn't literally mean he slept, but rather he died and joined his ancestors in death. It's a common phrase used in the Old Testament to indicate the death of a king or significant figure.
"...and was buried in Tirzah;": Tirzah was the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel at this time. So, it simply means he was buried in the royal burial grounds in his capital city. This emphasizes his status as king.
"...and Elah his son reigned in his place.": This indicates the succession of power. Baasha's son, Elah, took over the throne and became the new king after his father's death. The phrase "reigned in his place" emphasizes the transfer of authority.
In essence, the verse is a concise transition statement, informing the reader that Baasha has died and his son Elah has become the new king of Israel. These kinds of statements are typical of the historical books of the Old Testament, providing a chronological framework and marking the reigns of different kings.