23-24 Omri took over as king of Israel in the thirty-first year of the reign of Asa king of Judah. He ruled for twelve years, the first six in Tirzah. He then bought the hill Samaria from Shemer for 150 pounds of silver. He developed the hill and named the city that he built Samaria, after its original owner Shemer.

25-26 But as far as God was concerned, Omri lived an evil life—set new records in evil. He walked in the footsteps of Jeroboam son of Nebat, who not only sinned but dragged Israel into his sins, making God angry—such an empty-headed, empty-hearted life!

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

The Message Full Size--soft leather-look, life-light black
The Message Full Size--soft leather-look, life-light black
Retail: $59.99
Our Price: $47.99
Save: $12.00 (20%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
The Message Deluxe Gift Bible, Black/Slate Leather-Look
The Message Deluxe Gift Bible, Black/Slate Leather-Look
Retail: $19.99
Our Price: $15.99
Save: $4.00 (20%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
The Message for Graduates
The Message for Graduates
Retail: $12.99
Our Price: $8.49
Save: $4.50 (35%)
The Message Deluxe Gift Bible, Brown/Saddle Tan Leather-Look
The Message Deluxe Gift Bible, Brown/Saddle Tan Leather-Look
Retail: $16.99
Our Price: $13.99
Save: $3.00 (18%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars