8. The messenger came to Jehu and told him, “They have brought the heads of the king’s sons.”Then Jehu said, “Lay the heads in two piles at the city gate until morning.”
9. In the morning, Jehu went out and stood before the people and said to them, “You are innocent. Look, I made plans against my master and killed him. But who killed all these?
10. You should know that everything the Lord said about Ahab’s family will come true. The Lord has spoken through his servant Elijah, and the Lord has done what he said.”
11. So Jehu killed everyone of Ahab’s family in Jezreel who was still alive. He also killed all Ahab’s leading men, close friends, and priests. No one who had helped Ahab was left alive.
12. Then Jehu left and went to Samaria by way of the road to Beth Eked of the Shepherds.
13. There Jehu met some relatives of Ahaziah king of Judah. Jehu asked, “Who are you?”They answered, “We are relatives of Ahaziah. We have come down to get revenge for the families of the king and the king’s mother.”
14. Then Jehu said, “Take them alive!” So they captured Ahaziah’s relatives alive and killed them at the well near Beth Eked—forty-two of them. Jehu did not leave anyone alive.
15. After Jehu left there, he met Jehonadab son of Recab, who was also on his way to meet Jehu. Jehu greeted him and said, “Are you as good a friend to me as I am to you?”Jehonadab answered, “Yes, I am.”Jehu said, “If you are, then give me your hand.” So Jehonadab gave him his hand, and Jehu pulled him into the chariot.
16. “Come with me,” Jehu said. “You can see how strong my feelings are for the Lord.” So Jehu had Jehonadab ride in his chariot.
17. When Jehu came to Samaria, he killed all of Ahab’s family in Samaria. He destroyed all those who were left, just as the Lord had told Elijah it would happen.
18. Then Jehu gathered all the people together and said to them, “Ahab served Baal a little, but Jehu will serve Baal much.
19. Now call for me all Baal’s prophets and priests and all the people who worship Baal. Don’t let anyone miss this meeting, because I have a great sacrifice for Baal. Anyone who is not there will not live.” But Jehu was tricking them so he could destroy the worshipers of Baal.
20. He said, “Prepare a holy meeting for Baal.” So they announced the meeting.