Bible Dictionaries

Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible

Zimri (1)

ZIMRI seized the throne of Israel by the murder of his king Elah, but held it only seven days before Omri , another general of the army, asserted himself as claimant. Omri, as is well known, was the stronger, and established himself after disposing of two opponents. The characterization of Zimri, as one who caused Israel to sin by following in the ways of Jeroboam, is due to the author’s desire to pronounce judgment on all the kings of the Northern Kingdom ( 1 Kings 16:9-20 ).

H. P. Smith.