In the context of Jehu's reign as king of Israel, he was tasked with eradicating the worship of Baal, a Canaanite deity, which had become prevalent in Israel. Jehu's request for robes for the servants of Baal was a strategic move to identify and gather them all in one place. By doing so, he could ensure that none of the worshippers of Baal would escape his plan to eliminate them. This action was part of a larger effort to restore the worship of Yahweh and remove idolatry from the land.
Jehu's approach was both cunning and decisive, reflecting the seriousness with which idolatry was viewed in the context of Israel's covenant relationship with God. The robes symbolized a false identity that needed to be exposed and dealt with. This passage emphasizes the need for vigilance and commitment to faith, as well as the willingness to take difficult actions to uphold spiritual integrity. It serves as a reminder of the dangers of allowing false beliefs to take root and the importance of aligning one's life with divine truth.