The answer is: Benhadad

2 Ki 8:15

In the peculiar story of Second Kings, we glimpse a curious instance that some might understandably weather at face value—a king named Benhadad killed by a wet blanket. But don't turn away too quickly! This scene unfolds with more intrigue than its trivial surface suggests.

Benhadad was King of Aram (Syria) and known as a formidable figure engaged in a tug-of-war with Israel. When he fell ill, he was informed by the prophet Elisha that his fate was sealed—he would die eventually. However, Elisha was borrowed by Hazael, Benhadad's trusted servant, who cloak-and-daggered his way into political intrigue. Hazael subsequently smothered Benhadad with the very wet cloth that hovered his kingly ailment. Ah, the bitterness of betrayal wrapped in sinister irony!

This baffling story serves as a reminder of the historical era’s volatile power struggle—where trusted servants could descend into distasteful assassins. The wet blanket itself becomes a symbol here, contrasting warmth and comfort against the ultimate deceit of regime change.

Looking at Second Kings echoes the tension found in the Book of Esther where deceit plays center stage as well. Both these tales teach us how hydrous the transition from fellowship to political maneuvering could be in ancient times, suggesting that behind every throne, there’s often discord and strife lurking—signifying that what appears as a calm surface may belay tidal woes beneath!