are added the sins of Ahab (1 Kgs 16:29–33) and these dual threats call forth the ministries of both Elijah and Elisha. No northern king is free of covenant violations. The south fares marginally better. The presence of the temple and the stabilizing influence of the Davidic dynasty appear to forestall, but not to prevent, the encroachment of cultic violations. All kings are guilty of letting the high places continue; only Hezekiah and Josiah are credited with their removal (2 Kgs 18:4; 23:8, 13,