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But the king replied sharply, “How many times must I demand that you speak only the truth to me when you speak for the LORD ?”
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Then Micaiah told him, “In a vision I saw all Israel scattered on the mountains, like sheep without a shepherd. And the LORD said, ‘Their master has been killed. Send them home in peace.’”
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“Didn’t I tell you?” the king of Israel exclaimed to Jehoshaphat. “He never prophesies anything but trouble for me.”
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Then Micaiah continued, “Listen to what the LORD says! I saw the LORD sitting on his throne with all the armies of heaven around him, on his right and on his left.
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And the LORD said, ‘Who can entice King Ahab of Israel to go into battle against Ramoth-gilead so he can be killed?’ “There were many suggestions,
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and finally a spirit approached the LORD and said, ‘I can do it!’ “‘How will you do this?’ the LORD asked.
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“And the spirit replied, ‘I will go out and inspire all of Ahab’s prophets to speak lies.’ “‘You will succeed,’ said the LORD . ‘Go ahead and do it.’
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“So you see, the LORD has put a lying spirit in the mouths of your prophets. For the LORD has pronounced your doom.”
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Then Zedekiah son of Kenaanah walked up to Micaiah and slapped him across the face. “Since when did the Spirit of the LORD leave me to speak to you?” he demanded.
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And Micaiah replied, “You will find out soon enough when you are trying to hide in some secret room!”
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“Arrest him!” the king of Israel ordered. “Take him back to Amon, the governor of the city, and to my son Joash.