2 Chronicles 36:1
Then the people of the land took Jehoahaz son of Josiah and made him king in Jerusalem in place of his father.
Then the people of the land took Jehoahaz son of Josiah
The phrase "the people of the land" refers to the inhabitants of Judah, likely the influential leaders and elders who had a say in the succession of the throne. This indicates a level of autonomy and decision-making among the populace, even under the shadow of foreign powers like Egypt and Babylon. Jehoahaz, also known as Shallum, was the fourth son of King Josiah, a righteous king who had instituted significant religious reforms in Judah. The choice of Jehoahaz over his older brothers may reflect the people's desire for a continuation of Josiah's policies or a preference for a younger, more pliable ruler.

and made him king in Jerusalem
Jerusalem, the capital city of Judah, was the political and spiritual center of the nation. The coronation of Jehoahaz in Jerusalem signifies the legitimacy and official recognition of his kingship. This act of making him king was a significant political move, as it was done without the immediate approval of Egypt, which had significant influence over the region at the time. The city itself, with its temple, was central to Jewish identity and worship, making the kingship in Jerusalem not just a political role but also a spiritual one.

in place of his father
Jehoahaz was made king following the death of his father, Josiah, who was killed in battle at Megiddo by Pharaoh Necho II of Egypt. Josiah's death marked the end of a period of religious reform and relative independence for Judah. The transition of power from Josiah to Jehoahaz was a critical moment, as it represented a shift from a godly king to one whose reign would be short and marked by subjugation to foreign powers. This phrase highlights the dynastic succession typical of the Davidic line, yet it also foreshadows the instability and decline that would follow Josiah's death.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Jehoahaz
The son of King Josiah, Jehoahaz was chosen by the people to be king after his father's death. His reign was short-lived, lasting only three months.

2. Josiah
The father of Jehoahaz, Josiah was a righteous king known for his reforms and dedication to the Lord. His death marked a significant turning point for Judah.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, Jerusalem was the political and spiritual center of the kingdom. It was here that Jehoahaz was made king.

4. The People of the Land
This term refers to the inhabitants of Judah who played a role in selecting Jehoahaz as king. Their choice reflects the political dynamics and popular sentiment of the time.

5. The Event of Coronation
The transition of power from Josiah to Jehoahaz was a significant event, marking a shift in leadership and the beginning of a turbulent period for Judah.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Godly Leadership
Jehoahaz's brief reign serves as a reminder of the importance of godly leadership. Unlike his father Josiah, Jehoahaz did not follow the ways of the Lord, leading to his downfall. This highlights the need for leaders who are committed to God's principles.

The Role of the People in Leadership Selection
The people of the land played a crucial role in selecting Jehoahaz as king. This underscores the responsibility of communities to seek God's guidance in choosing leaders who will uphold His values.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Jehoahaz's reign was marked by disobedience to God, resulting in his removal from power. This serves as a warning of the consequences that come from turning away from God's commands.

The Transience of Earthly Power
Jehoahaz's short reign is a testament to the fleeting nature of earthly power and authority. It reminds us to place our trust in God's eternal kingdom rather than in temporary human institutions.
Bible Study Questions
1. What can we learn from the contrast between Josiah's and Jehoahaz's reigns about the impact of personal faith on leadership?

2. How does the role of "the people of the land" in selecting Jehoahaz as king inform our understanding of communal responsibility in leadership decisions today?

3. In what ways does Jehoahaz's account illustrate the consequences of failing to adhere to God's laws, as outlined in Deuteronomy 17:14-20?

4. How can we apply the lessons from Jehoahaz's reign to our own lives, particularly in terms of seeking and supporting godly leadership?

5. Reflecting on the transience of Jehoahaz's power, how can we ensure that our focus remains on God's eternal kingdom rather than on temporary earthly positions?
Connections to Other Scriptures
2 Kings 23:30-34
This passage provides a parallel account of Jehoahaz's reign and his subsequent removal by Pharaoh Neco, offering additional context to his short-lived kingship.

Jeremiah 22:10-12
Jeremiah's prophecy concerning Jehoahaz (referred to as Shallum) highlights the consequences of his reign and the divine judgment that followed.

Deuteronomy 17:14-20
This passage outlines the laws concerning kingship in Israel, providing a backdrop for understanding the responsibilities and expectations of a king like Jehoahaz.
The Fall of JudahAlexander Maclaren2 Chronicles 36:1
Jehoahaz; Or, Three Months of RoyaltyT. Whitelaw 2 Chronicles 36:1-4
Three Melancholy SpectaclesW. Clarkson 2 Chronicles 36:1-10
People
Cyrus, Eliakim, Jehoahaz, Jehoiachin, Jehoiakim, Jeremiah, Joahaz, Josiah, Nebuchadnezzar, Necho, Zedekiah
Places
Babylon, Egypt, Jerusalem, Persia
Topics
Cause, Father's, Instead, Jehoahaz, Jeho'ahaz, Jerusalem, Joahaz, Josiah, Josi'ah, Reign, Stead
Dictionary of Bible Themes
2 Chronicles 35:25-27

     8644   commemoration

Library
The Fall of Judah
'Zedekiah was one and twenty years old when he began to reign, and reigned eleven years in Jerusalem. 12. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord his God, and humbled not himself before Jeremiah the prophet speaking from the mouth of the Lord. 13. And he also rebelled against king Nebuchadnezzar, who had made him swear by God: but he stiffened his neck, and hardened his heart from turning unto the Lord God of Israel. 14. Moreover all the chief of the priests, and the people, transgressed
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Youthful Confessors
'But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank; therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself. 9. Now God had brought Daniel into favour and tender love with the prince of the eunuchs. 10. And the prince of the eunuchs said unto Daniel, I fear my lord the king, who hath appointed your meat and your drink; for why should he see your faces worse liking than the children which
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Chronicles
The comparative indifference with which Chronicles is regarded in modern times by all but professional scholars seems to have been shared by the ancient Jewish church. Though written by the same hand as wrote Ezra-Nehemiah, and forming, together with these books, a continuous history of Judah, it is placed after them in the Hebrew Bible, of which it forms the concluding book; and this no doubt points to the fact that it attained canonical distinction later than they. Nor is this unnatural. The book
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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