Omri’s Reign over Israel

16:21 At that time the people of Israel were divided in their loyalties. Half the people supported Tibni son of Ginath and wanted to make him king; the other half supported Omri. 16:22 Omri’s supporters were stronger than those who supported Tibni son of Ginath. Tibni died; Omri became king.

16:23 In the thirty-first year of Asa’s reign over Judah, Omri became king over Israel. He ruled for twelve years, six of them in Tirzah. 16:24 He purchased the hill of Samaria25 from Shemer for two talents26 of silver. He launched a construction project there27 and named the city he built after Shemer, the former owner of the hill of Samaria. 16:25 Omri did more evil in the sight of28 the Lord than all who were before him. 16:26 He followed in the footsteps of Jeroboam son of Nebat and encouraged Israel to sin;29 they angered the Lord God of Israel with their worthless idols.30

16:27 The rest of the events of Omri’s reign, including his accomplishments and successes, are recorded in the scroll called the Annals of the Kings of Israel.31 16:28 Omri passed away32 and was buried in Samaria. His son Ahab replaced him as king.33