Disguises in the Bible: When Going Undercover Really Mattered

Yaakov – Following Rivkah’s advice, Yaakov disguised himself as his brother Esav in order to receive the blessing that their father, Yitzchak, intended for Esav. The disguise successfully deceived Yitzchak, who remarked, “The voice is the voice of Yaakov, but the hands are the hands of Esav.”

King Saul – In order to consult the Witch of Endor, King Saul disguised himself, knowing she would refuse him if she recognized him: “Saul disguised himself, put on other clothes, and came to the woman at night.” When she summoned the spirit of Shmuel, the witch realized Saul’s identity and cried out, “Why have you deceived me? You are Saul!”

The Wife of Yeravam – Yeravam, king of Israel, sent his wife in disguise to the prophet Achiyah, hoping that the prophet, who was blind, would have mercy and help their ailing son, Aviyah. However, Hashem revealed her identity to the prophet, and Achiyah foretold the child’s impending death.

King Ahab – During a battle against the king of Aram, Ahab disguised himself and suggested that Yehoshaphat do the same: “The King of Israel said to Yehoshaphat, ‘Disguise yourself and enter the battle; as for me, I will disguise myself.’” Despite his efforts, Ahab was killed in the battle.

The Wise Woman of Tekoa – After Avshalom fled following the death of his brother Amnon, Yoav ben Tzruya enlisted a wise woman from Tekoa to pose as a grieving widow and appeal to King David. Her carefully crafted story, which paralleled Avshalom’s situation, persuaded David to allow Avshalom to return from exile.