What does being a Jezebel mean?

The name “Jezebel” carries a powerful and often negative connotation in modern language, describing a woman who is manipulative, seductive, or morally unrestrained. But where does this meaning come from, and what does it truly signify when someone is called a “Jezebel”?

To understand the cultural and moral weight of this label, it’s important to look at its biblical origins, how the character of Jezebel has been interpreted through the centuries, and the ways in which the term is used today—sometimes fairly, but often in ways that reflect broader social and cultural anxieties about women, power, and sexuality.

Jezebel in the Bible: The Historical Origin

The original Jezebel appears in the Old Testament, specifically in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Kings. Jezebel was a Phoenician princess, the daughter of Ethbaal, king of the Sidonians, who became the wife of Ahab, king of Israel. Through her marriage, she brought with her the worship of Baal and Asherah, pagan deities that the Israelites were repeatedly warned against in the scriptures. Jezebel’s insistence on promoting Baal worship and persecuting the prophets of Yahweh made her a deeply controversial figure.

The Bible portrays Jezebel as ruthless, cunning, and unrepentant. One of the most infamous stories involving her is the account of Naboth’s vineyard (1 Kings 21), where Jezebel orchestrates the false accusation and execution of Naboth so that her husband can seize his property. Her actions provoke the ire of the prophet Elijah, who prophesies her violent death. Ultimately, Jezebel meets a grisly end—thrown from a window, trampled by horses, and eaten by dogs, as foretold by Elijah.

The Symbolic Jezebel: Interpretations and Legacy

Over time, Jezebel’s name became synonymous with wickedness, idolatry, and immorality. In the biblical narrative, she is not only a political villain but also a spiritual adversary, representing the dangers of turning away from monotheistic worship and moral law. Her opposition to God’s prophets and her manipulative tactics have made her an enduring symbol of female treachery and seduction.

The New Testament also references Jezebel in the Book of Revelation (Revelation 2:20), where a woman labeled “Jezebel” is criticized for leading Christians into idolatry and sexual immorality. This allusion cements Jezebel’s reputation as an archetype of moral corruption and false teaching, extending her legacy well beyond her historical life.

“Jezebel” as a Modern Insult

In contemporary culture, calling someone a “Jezebel” is almost always an insult, particularly when used to describe women. The term implies not just sexual promiscuity, but also deceitfulness, manipulation, and a willingness to defy social norms. In some circles, it may be used to shame women who are outspoken, independent, or refuse to conform to traditional expectations.

The “Jezebel” stereotype has been especially damaging in certain cultural and racial contexts. In the United States, for example, the “Jezebel” trope was historically used to demean and control Black women, painting them as hypersexual and immoral as a way to justify exploitation and discrimination. This legacy continues to influence perceptions in subtle and overt ways today.

Jezebel and Gender Politics

The enduring power of the Jezebel figure reflects broader anxieties about women’s power, sexuality, and independence. Throughout history, women who challenged the status quo—whether by wielding political influence, expressing their sexuality, or defying religious authorities—have often been labeled as “Jezebels” or similar terms. This label serves to police women’s behavior and reinforce social norms, casting assertive or nonconforming women as dangerous or untrustworthy.

At the same time, some women and writers have sought to reclaim Jezebel as a symbol of resistance. By highlighting her intelligence, determination, and refusal to submit, they argue that the negative portrayal of Jezebel says as much about patriarchal fears as it does about her actual actions.