When Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead
Athaliah was the daughter of King Ahab and Queen Jezebel of Israel, making her a member of the infamous Omride dynasty known for its idolatry and opposition to the worship of Yahweh. Her marriage to Jehoram, king of Judah, was likely a political alliance between the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. Ahaziah, her son, became king of Judah but reigned for only one year before his death. His death occurred as a result of Jehu's purge, which was a divinely sanctioned judgment against the house of Ahab (2 Kings 9-10). Athaliah's reaction to her son's death reflects the political instability and the influence of her family's legacy of violence and idolatry.

she proceeded to annihilate all the royal heirs
Athaliah's attempt to destroy the royal line of David was a direct threat to the Davidic covenant, which promised that David's lineage would endure forever (2 Samuel 7:12-16). Her actions can be seen as an attempt to secure her own power by eliminating any potential rivals. This act of violence is reminiscent of other biblical accounts where rulers sought to eliminate threats to their throne, such as Pharaoh's decree to kill Hebrew male infants (Exodus 1:22) and Herod's massacre of the innocents (Matthew 2:16). Athaliah's usurpation of the throne also highlights the spiritual and moral decline in Judah, as she introduced Baal worship into the kingdom, further distancing the people from their covenant with God. Despite her efforts, God's providence ensured the survival of the Davidic line through Joash, who was hidden by Jehosheba, the wife of the priest Jehoiada, preserving the messianic lineage that would ultimately lead to Jesus Christ.

But Jehosheba daughter of King Joram, the sister of Ahaziah
Jehosheba, also known as Jehoshabeath in some texts, was a member of the royal family of Judah. Her father, King Joram (also known as Jehoram), was a king of Judah, and her brother Ahaziah was the king who had just been killed. This familial connection places her in a unique position of influence and risk. Her actions are significant in preserving the Davidic line, which is crucial for the fulfillment of the Messianic prophecy that the Messiah would come from the line of David (2 Samuel 7:12-16).

took Joash son of Ahaziah
Joash, also known as Jehoash, was the rightful heir to the throne of Judah. At this time, he was just an infant, making him vulnerable to the political upheaval and violence that followed his father's death. His survival was essential for the continuation of the Davidic dynasty, which had been promised an eternal throne (Psalm 89:3-4).

and stole him away from among the sons of the king who were being murdered
Athaliah, the mother of Ahaziah and grandmother of Joash, was executing a violent purge to secure her power by eliminating all potential claimants to the throne. This act of murder was not only a political move but also a spiritual attack against God's covenant with David. Jehosheba's intervention was a courageous act of defiance against Athaliah's tyranny and a preservation of God's promise.

She put him and his nurse in a bedroom to hide him from Athaliah
The act of hiding Joash in a bedroom suggests a secretive and urgent effort to protect him. The presence of a nurse indicates the child's young age and need for care. This hiding place was likely within the temple precincts, as Jehosheba was married to Jehoiada, the high priest, providing a secure and sacred refuge. This setting underscores the theme of divine protection and providence.

and he was not killed
Joash's survival is a testament to God's faithfulness in preserving the Davidic line despite human attempts to thwart His plans. This preservation is a foreshadowing of the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, who would come from this lineage. Joash's eventual rise to the throne symbolizes hope and restoration for Judah, aligning with the biblical theme of God's sovereignty and redemptive plan.

And Joash remained hidden with his nurse
Joash, also known as Jehoash, was the son of Ahaziah, king of Judah. After the death of Ahaziah, his mother Athaliah sought to destroy all the royal heirs to secure her power. Joash's survival was crucial for the Davidic line, which was prophesied to bring forth the Messiah (2 Samuel 7:12-16). His nurse played a vital role in his protection, highlighting the importance of faithful caregivers in God's plan. This act of hiding Joash parallels the preservation of Moses in Exodus 2:2-3, where God protects His chosen leaders in times of peril.

in the house of the LORD
The house of the LORD refers to the temple in Jerusalem, a sacred place where God's presence dwelt among His people. The temple served as a sanctuary for Joash, symbolizing God's protection and provision. This setting underscores the theme of divine refuge found throughout Scripture, such as in Psalm 27:5, where God is described as a shelter in times of trouble. The temple's role as a place of safety for Joash also foreshadows the ultimate sanctuary found in Christ, who is our refuge and strength (Hebrews 6:18-20).

for six years
The six-year period signifies a time of waiting and preparation. Biblically, the number six often represents incompleteness or human effort, as seen in the six days of creation before God's rest on the seventh day. During these years, Joash was being prepared for his future role as king, much like how David was prepared in the wilderness before ascending to the throne. This period of concealment and growth is reminiscent of Jesus' hidden years before His public ministry, emphasizing the importance of God's timing in fulfilling His purposes.

while Athaliah ruled the land
Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, was a usurper who ruled Judah with idolatry and tyranny. Her reign represents a period of spiritual darkness and apostasy, similar to the reign of Ahab in Israel. Athaliah's rule is a reminder of the constant battle between the forces of evil and God's sovereign plan. Despite her attempts to eradicate the Davidic line, God's covenant promises remained unbroken, as seen in the eventual rise of Joash to the throne. This narrative echoes the assurance found in Romans 8:28, that God works all things for the good of those who love Him, even amidst apparent chaos and evil.

Then in the seventh year
The seventh year marks a significant period in the biblical narrative, often associated with completion or fulfillment. In this context, it refers to the seventh year of Athaliah's reign, a time when Jehoiada, the high priest, saw the opportunity to act against her usurpation of the throne. The number seven frequently symbolizes divine perfection or completion in Scripture, as seen in the creation week (Genesis 2:2-3).

Jehoiada sent for the commanders of hundreds, the Carites, and the guards
Jehoiada, the high priest, was a key figure in preserving the Davidic line. The "commanders of hundreds" were military leaders, indicating a well-organized plan. The Carites were likely mercenaries or a special guard unit, possibly of foreign origin, similar to the Cherethites and Pelethites who served King David (2 Samuel 8:18). The guards were temple guards, responsible for the security of the sacred precincts. This assembly of military and temple personnel underscores the strategic and sacred nature of Jehoiada's plan.

and had them brought into the house of the LORD
The house of the LORD, or the temple, was the central place of worship and a symbol of God's presence among His people. By bringing the commanders and guards into the temple, Jehoiada was not only ensuring secrecy but also invoking the authority and sanctity of God in his actions. The temple served as a place of refuge and divine endorsement for the covenant to be made.

There he made a covenant with them and put them under oath
Covenants in the Bible are solemn agreements often made before God, signifying a binding commitment. Jehoiada's covenant with the commanders and guards was a pledge to protect the rightful heir to the throne and to overthrow Athaliah. Oaths were taken seriously in ancient Israel, as breaking them was seen as an offense against God (Numbers 30:2). This covenant echoes the Davidic Covenant, which promised the continuation of David's line (2 Samuel 7:12-16).

He showed them the king’s son
The king's son, Joash, was the rightful heir to the throne, hidden for six years to protect him from Athaliah's murderous intent. Revealing Joash was a pivotal moment, as it confirmed the legitimacy of Jehoiada's plan and rallied support for the restoration of the Davidic line. This act prefigures the revelation of Jesus Christ, the ultimate King from David's line, who was also hidden from the world until the appointed time (Galatians 4:4).

and commanded them,
This phrase indicates a directive given by a person in authority. In the context of 2 Kings 11, the command comes from Jehoiada the priest, who is orchestrating a coup to protect the young Joash and overthrow the usurper queen Athaliah. The role of a priest giving military orders highlights the intertwining of religious and political leadership in ancient Israel. This reflects the theocratic nature of Israelite society, where religious leaders often played crucial roles in governance and national affairs.

“This is what you are to do:
The specificity of the instructions underscores the careful planning and strategic thinking involved in the operation. It suggests a well-organized plan to ensure the safety of the rightful king and the success of the coup. This mirrors other biblical instances where God’s plans are executed with precision, such as the detailed instructions given to Moses for the construction of the Tabernacle (Exodus 25-31).

A third of you who come on duty on the Sabbath
The reference to the Sabbath indicates the timing of the plan, utilizing the changing of the guard to execute the strategy. The Sabbath was a day of rest and worship, but it also provided a practical opportunity for a shift change among the guards, minimizing suspicion. This reflects the importance of the Sabbath in Jewish life, as a day set apart for rest and religious observance, as commanded in Exodus 20:8-11.

shall guard the royal palace,
The royal palace was the center of political power and the residence of the king. Guarding it was crucial to maintaining control over the kingdom. This task was assigned to a third of the guards, indicating the importance of protecting the king and the seat of power. The palace's protection is reminiscent of the divine protection promised to the Davidic line, as seen in 2 Samuel 7:16, where God promises David that his house and kingdom will endure forever. This foreshadows the ultimate fulfillment of this promise in Jesus Christ, the eternal King from the line of David.

a third shall be at the gate of Sur
The "gate of Sur" is a location within the temple complex or palace area in Jerusalem. This gate is significant as it represents a strategic point of defense. The division of the guards into thirds indicates a well-organized plan to protect the young king Joash from any threats, particularly from Queen Athaliah, who had usurped the throne. The gate of Sur may have been a lesser-known entrance, emphasizing the need for vigilance at all access points. This strategic placement of guards reflects the importance of protecting the Davidic line, which is central to the biblical narrative and God's covenant with David (2 Samuel 7:12-16).

and a third at the gate behind the guards
The "gate behind the guards" suggests an additional layer of security, possibly an inner gate leading to more private or sacred areas of the temple. This positioning highlights the thoroughness of Jehoiada's plan to safeguard Joash. The presence of guards at this gate underscores the seriousness of the threat posed by Athaliah and the need to ensure the safety of the rightful heir to the throne. This careful guarding can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the ultimate protector and king, ensuring the fulfillment of God's promises.

You are to take turns guarding the temple—
The instruction to "take turns guarding the temple" indicates a continuous and vigilant watch over the temple and the young king. This rotation of guards ensures that there is no lapse in security, reflecting the dedication and commitment required to protect God's chosen leader. The temple, as the dwelling place of God, symbolizes His presence and covenant with Israel. The protection of the temple and the Davidic line is crucial for the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, which ultimately leads to the coming of Jesus Christ, the true King and High Priest. This vigilance can be paralleled with the call for believers to remain watchful and steadfast in their faith.

the two divisions that would go off duty on the Sabbath
In the context of ancient Israel, the temple guard was organized into divisions that served in shifts. The reference to "two divisions" indicates a structured and organized system of temple service, reflecting the Levitical order established by King David (1 Chronicles 24). The Sabbath was a day of rest, but the temple required continuous protection, especially during times of political instability. This passage highlights the importance of maintaining vigilance and security in the house of the LORD, even on the Sabbath, which underscores the sacredness and significance of the temple.

are to guard the house of the LORD
The "house of the LORD" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, a central place of worship and the dwelling place of God's presence among His people. Guarding the temple was a critical task, especially during the reign of Athaliah, who had usurped the throne and threatened the Davidic line. The temple was not only a religious center but also a symbol of God's covenant with Israel. The protection of the temple ensured the preservation of religious practices and the continuation of the Davidic dynasty, which was crucial for the fulfillment of God's promises.

for the king
At this time, Joash (also known as Jehoash) was the rightful heir to the throne, hidden in the temple to protect him from Athaliah's murderous intent. The guarding of the temple "for the king" signifies the protection of the Davidic line, which is central to the biblical narrative. This act of guarding is not merely a political maneuver but a fulfillment of God's covenant with David, promising that his descendants would rule Israel (2 Samuel 7:12-16). Joash's preservation and eventual coronation foreshadow the ultimate fulfillment of the Davidic covenant in Jesus Christ, the eternal King from David's line (Luke 1:32-33).

You must surround the king with weapons in hand
This phrase emphasizes the importance of protecting the king, highlighting the need for vigilance and readiness. In the context of 2 Kings 11, this refers to the protection of young King Joash, who was the rightful heir to the throne of Judah. The use of weapons signifies the seriousness of the threat posed by Queen Athaliah, who had usurped the throne. This protection is reminiscent of the divine protection God provides to His chosen leaders, as seen in other biblical narratives such as David's protection from Saul (1 Samuel 23:14). The imagery of surrounding the king can also be seen as a type of Christ, who is surrounded by His angels and protected by divine power (Matthew 26:53).

and anyone who approaches the ranks must be put to death
This directive underscores the severity of the situation and the need for absolute loyalty and obedience to the king's protection. It reflects the ancient Near Eastern practice of ensuring the security of the monarch at all costs. The command to put to death anyone who breaches the ranks indicates the high stakes involved in preserving the Davidic line, which was crucial for the fulfillment of God's covenant with David (2 Samuel 7:12-16). This also foreshadows the ultimate protection and authority of Christ, the King of Kings, who will judge and rule with righteousness (Revelation 19:11-16).

You must stay close to the king wherever he goes
This phrase highlights the necessity of constant vigilance and loyalty. The close proximity to the king signifies not only physical protection but also unwavering support and allegiance. In the historical context, this was vital to ensure the stability of the kingdom and the continuation of the Davidic dynasty. Spiritually, this can be seen as a call for believers to remain close to Christ, our King, abiding in Him and following His guidance (John 15:4-5). The loyalty and dedication required of the guards reflect the commitment expected of Christ's followers, who are called to be faithful and steadfast in their devotion.

So the commanders of hundreds did everything that Jehoiada the priest had ordered.
Jehoiada the priest played a crucial role in preserving the Davidic line by orchestrating the protection and eventual crowning of Joash. The "commanders of hundreds" were military leaders responsible for executing Jehoiada's plan. This phrase highlights the obedience and respect the military had for Jehoiada, indicating his influence and authority. The cooperation between religious and military leaders was essential for the success of this plan, reflecting the theocratic nature of Israelite society where religious leaders often held significant sway over political and military matters.

Each of them took his men—those coming on duty on the Sabbath and those going off duty—
The reference to the Sabbath indicates the strategic timing of Jehoiada's plan. The changing of the guard on the Sabbath would have been a routine event, allowing for a seamless transition of forces without arousing suspicion. This clever use of timing ensured that there were enough loyal soldiers present to protect Joash and execute the coup against Athaliah. The Sabbath, a day of rest and worship, also underscores the religious significance of the event, as it was a day dedicated to the Lord, aligning the coup with divine approval.

and came to Jehoiada the priest.
The commanders and their men coming to Jehoiada signifies their allegiance and trust in his leadership. Jehoiada's role as a priest underscores the religious legitimacy of the coup. By gathering at the temple, the center of religious life, the event is framed as not just a political maneuver but a divinely sanctioned act. This gathering at the temple also foreshadows the anointing and crowning of Joash, which would take place in a sacred setting, emphasizing the restoration of the Davidic line as a fulfillment of God's covenant with David.

Then the priest gave to the commanders of hundreds
In this context, the priest refers to Jehoiada, a key figure in the preservation of the Davidic line. The "commanders of hundreds" were military leaders responsible for a hundred soldiers each, indicating a structured and organized military force. This action signifies a strategic preparation for a coup to protect the rightful heir to the throne, Joash, from Queen Athaliah's usurpation. The involvement of the priest highlights the intertwining of religious and political leadership in Israel.

the spears and shields of King David
These weapons symbolize the continuity of the Davidic dynasty and the divine covenant with David. By using King David's weapons, Jehoiada invokes the legacy and authority of David, reminding the people of God's promises to David's lineage. This act also serves as a rallying point for those loyal to the Davidic line, emphasizing the legitimacy of Joash's claim to the throne. The reference to David connects this event to the broader biblical narrative of God's faithfulness to His covenant.

from the house of the LORD
The house of the LORD refers to the temple in Jerusalem, which was not only a place of worship but also a repository for sacred and historical artifacts. The presence of King David's weapons in the temple underscores their sacred status and the temple's role as a symbol of God's presence and covenant with Israel. This setting highlights the religious significance of the actions taken by Jehoiada, as they are not merely political but deeply rooted in the spiritual heritage of Israel. The temple's involvement in this event underscores the theme of divine intervention and protection over the Davidic line.

And the guards stood with weapons in hand
This phrase highlights the presence of armed guards, indicating a time of potential danger and the need for protection. In the context of 2 Kings 11, this occurs during the coronation of Joash, a young king who was hidden from Athaliah's murderous intent. The guards' readiness with weapons underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need to safeguard the rightful heir to the throne. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's protection over His chosen leaders, as seen in other instances like David's protection from Saul.

surrounding the king by the altar and the temple
The altar and the temple are central to Israel's worship and religious life, symbolizing God's presence among His people. The king's proximity to these sacred sites during his coronation signifies the divine approval and religious legitimacy of his rule. This setting also emphasizes the intertwining of religious and political authority in ancient Israel. The temple, built by Solomon, was the heart of Jewish worship, and the altar was where sacrifices were made, pointing to the future ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who is both King and High Priest.

from the south side to the north side of the temple
This phrase indicates the comprehensive protection surrounding the king, covering the entire span of the temple area. The temple's orientation and layout are significant, as they reflect the order and structure of Israelite worship. The mention of the south and north sides may also symbolize completeness and thoroughness in the protection provided. This can be seen as a foreshadowing of the comprehensive nature of Christ's protection and reign, which extends over all creation. The temple itself is a type of Christ, who is the true temple where God and humanity meet.

Then Jehoiada brought out the king’s son
Jehoiada, the high priest, plays a crucial role in preserving the Davidic line by protecting Joash, the rightful heir to the throne. This act occurs during a time of political turmoil when Athaliah, the queen mother, had usurped the throne. Joash had been hidden in the temple for six years, symbolizing God's providential care over the Davidic covenant. This event underscores the importance of divine intervention in maintaining the lineage that would eventually lead to Jesus Christ, the ultimate King.

put the crown on him
The crowning of Joash signifies the restoration of the rightful monarchy in Judah. The crown is a symbol of authority and legitimacy, marking Joash as the legitimate heir to David's throne. This act fulfills the promise that the line of David would continue, as seen in 2 Samuel 7:16, where God promises David that his house and kingdom will endure forever.

presented him with the Testimony
The Testimony likely refers to a copy of the Law, which the king was required to have and read according to Deuteronomy 17:18-20. This emphasizes the king's duty to rule in accordance with God's law, highlighting the theocratic nature of Israel's monarchy. It serves as a reminder that the king is subject to God's authority and must lead the people in righteousness.

and proclaimed him king
The public proclamation of Joash as king is a formal declaration of his rightful position. This act is significant in re-establishing the Davidic line and restoring order to the kingdom. It also reflects the biblical principle that leadership is established by God, as seen in Romans 13:1, which states that all authority is instituted by God.

They anointed him
Anointing with oil is a significant ritual in the Old Testament, symbolizing the consecration and empowerment of a person for a specific role or task. In the case of Joash, it signifies his divine appointment as king. This act foreshadows the anointing of Jesus Christ, the Messiah, whose title means "Anointed One."

and the people clapped their hands and declared, “Long live the king!”
The people's response indicates their acceptance and support of Joash as their king. Clapping hands is an expression of joy and approval, while the acclamation "Long live the king!" is a traditional expression of loyalty and hope for a prosperous reign. This moment reflects the communal aspect of kingship in Israel, where the king's legitimacy is affirmed by the people's recognition and support.

When Athaliah heard the noise from the guards and the people
Athaliah was the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, and she became queen of Judah through marriage to King Jehoram. Her reign was marked by idolatry and violence, including the massacre of the royal family to secure her position. The noise she heard was the result of a significant event: the crowning of Joash, the rightful heir to the throne, orchestrated by Jehoiada the priest. This noise signifies a turning point, as it represents the people's support for Joash and their rejection of Athaliah's illegitimate rule. The guards and the people were gathered in the temple, a place of worship and national assembly, indicating a collective movement against Athaliah's tyranny.

she went out to the people in the house of the LORD
The "house of the LORD" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, a central place of worship and the spiritual heart of Judah. Athaliah's approach to the temple signifies her attempt to confront the situation directly, possibly underestimating the people's resolve and the priest's influence. Her presence in the temple is ironic, given her promotion of Baal worship, contrasting with the temple's dedication to Yahweh. This moment is pivotal, as it sets the stage for her downfall and the restoration of the Davidic line through Joash. The temple's role as a place of refuge and justice is highlighted, aligning with its historical and spiritual significance in Israel's history.

And she looked out and saw the king standing by the pillar, according to the custom.
In the context of ancient Israel, the "pillar" likely refers to a designated place in the temple where the king would stand during significant ceremonies, such as coronations. This custom underscores the importance of the temple as a central place of worship and governance. The king standing by the pillar signifies legitimacy and divine approval, as the temple was seen as God's dwelling place. This scene is reminiscent of the covenant renewal ceremonies where leaders reaffirmed their commitment to God, as seen in 2 Kings 23:3 with King Josiah.

The officers and trumpeters were beside the king,
The presence of officers and trumpeters indicates a formal and public ceremony. Officers, likely military leaders or royal guards, symbolize the king's authority and protection. Trumpeters were often used in biblical times to announce significant events, such as the anointing of a king (1 Kings 1:39). This gathering of officials and musicians highlights the legitimacy and public acknowledgment of the king's rule.

and all the people of the land were rejoicing and blowing trumpets.
The people's rejoicing signifies widespread acceptance and support for the new king, Jehoash. This public celebration contrasts with the previous reign of Athaliah, who was not of the Davidic line and had seized power through violence. The blowing of trumpets is a biblical symbol of victory and divine intervention, as seen in the fall of Jericho (Joshua 6:20). This moment marks a return to the Davidic covenant and God's promises to David's lineage.

Then Athaliah tore her clothes and screamed, “Treason! Treason!”
Athaliah's reaction of tearing her clothes is a traditional expression of grief and distress in the ancient Near East. Her cry of "Treason! Treason!" reflects her perception of the event as a betrayal, though she herself had usurped the throne. This moment highlights the conflict between the illegitimate rule of Athaliah and the rightful restoration of the Davidic line. Her downfall fulfills the divine justice often seen in the Old Testament, where those who oppose God's plans ultimately face consequences, as prophesied in Isaiah 14:5.

And Jehoiada the priest ordered the commanders of hundreds in charge of the army
Jehoiada was a high priest during a tumultuous time in Judah's history. His leadership was crucial in the overthrow of Queen Athaliah, who had usurped the throne. The "commanders of hundreds" refers to military leaders responsible for groups of soldiers, indicating a well-organized military structure. This phrase highlights the collaboration between religious and military leadership, a common theme in Israel's history where priests often played significant roles in national affairs (e.g., Samuel in 1 Samuel 7:9-13).

“Bring her out between the ranks, and put to the sword anyone who follows her.”
Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, had seized power in Judah after the death of her son, King Ahaziah. Her reign was marked by idolatry and violence, including the massacre of the royal family. Jehoiada's command to "bring her out" signifies a strategic move to remove her from the temple, preserving its sanctity. The instruction to "put to the sword anyone who follows her" underscores the seriousness of purging idolatry and rebellion from the nation, reflecting the Deuteronomic law's emphasis on eradicating evil (Deuteronomy 13:5).

For the priest had said, “She must not be put to death in the house of the LORD.”
The temple was considered a sacred space, and executing someone within its confines would defile it. This reflects the high regard for the holiness of the temple, a central theme in the Old Testament (1 Kings 8:10-11). Jehoiada's insistence on maintaining the temple's sanctity aligns with the broader biblical principle of separating the sacred from the profane. This action also prefigures the New Testament's emphasis on the purity of God's dwelling place, now understood as the body of believers (1 Corinthians 3:16-17).

So they seized Athaliah
Athaliah was the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, and she became queen of Judah through marriage to King Jehoram. Her seizing marks the end of her tyrannical reign, which was characterized by idolatry and the persecution of the worship of Yahweh. This act of seizing her was a fulfillment of divine justice, as her rule was marked by the murder of the royal family to secure her position. Her capture signifies the restoration of the Davidic line, which she had attempted to destroy.

as she reached the horses’ entrance
The horses' entrance likely refers to a specific gate or passageway used for royal or military purposes, possibly located on the southern side of the palace complex. This detail underscores the urgency and swiftness of her capture, as she was intercepted before she could escape or rally support. The mention of the horses' entrance may also symbolize the end of her power, as horses were often associated with strength and military might in ancient Israel.

to the palace grounds
The palace grounds were the center of political power in Jerusalem. Athaliah's presence there indicates her attempt to maintain control over the kingdom. The palace was not only a political center but also a place where religious decisions were made, as seen in her previous actions to promote Baal worship. Her capture on these grounds highlights the reclaiming of the palace for the rightful Davidic king, Joash, and the reestablishment of proper worship practices.

and there she was put to death
Athaliah's execution was a decisive act to eliminate the threat she posed to the Davidic line and the worship of Yahweh. Her death was necessary to fulfill the covenant promises to David, ensuring that his lineage would continue to rule. This act of justice parallels other instances in Scripture where God removes leaders who oppose His purposes, such as the fall of Jezebel, Athaliah's mother. Her death also prefigures the ultimate triumph of Christ, the true King from the line of David, who will establish His eternal kingdom.

Then Jehoiada made a covenant between the LORD and the king and the people
Jehoiada, the high priest, played a crucial role in the restoration of the Davidic line through Joash. This covenant signifies a renewal of the people's commitment to God, reminiscent of covenants made by leaders like Moses (Exodus 24:7-8) and Joshua (Joshua 24:25). It underscores the importance of national and spiritual unity under God's sovereignty. The covenant reflects the theocratic nature of Israel, where the king was expected to lead the people in obedience to God’s laws. This act can be seen as a type of Christ, who mediates a new covenant between God and His people (Hebrews 9:15).

that they would be the LORD’s people
This phrase emphasizes the identity and calling of Israel as God's chosen people (Deuteronomy 7:6). It is a reaffirmation of their unique relationship with God, which required exclusive worship and obedience. The covenant aimed to restore the nation’s focus on their divine purpose, contrasting with the idolatry and apostasy that had plagued Judah under previous rulers. This echoes the call for Christians to be a holy nation and a people belonging to God (1 Peter 2:9).

He also made a covenant between the king and the people
This covenant established the responsibilities and expectations between the king and his subjects. It was a mutual agreement ensuring that the king would rule justly and the people would support him, reflecting the biblical principle of righteous leadership (Proverbs 29:2). This covenant can be compared to the covenantal relationship between Christ, the King, and His Church, where Christ leads with justice and love, and His followers respond with faithfulness and obedience (Ephesians 5:23-24).

So all the people of the land went to the temple of Baal and tore it down.
This phrase indicates a collective action by the people, suggesting a widespread rejection of Baal worship, which had been introduced and promoted by previous rulers like Ahab and Jezebel. The temple of Baal was a center for idolatrous worship, and its destruction signifies a return to the worship of Yahweh. This act fulfills the commandment against idolatry found in Exodus 20:3-5 and reflects the covenant renewal seen in other parts of the Old Testament, such as in the reforms of King Josiah (2 Kings 23:4-20).

They smashed the altars and idols to pieces,
The destruction of altars and idols is a physical manifestation of repentance and a turning away from false gods. This act is reminiscent of Gideon's destruction of the altar of Baal in Judges 6:25-27. It symbolizes the eradication of sin and the cleansing of the land from pagan influences, aligning with the Deuteronomic law that commands the destruction of pagan worship sites (Deuteronomy 12:3).

and they killed Mattan the priest of Baal in front of the altars.
Mattan, as a priest of Baal, represented the religious leadership that led Israel into idolatry. His execution is a decisive act of judgment against those who oppose the worship of the true God. This mirrors the actions of Elijah on Mount Carmel, where the prophets of Baal were also executed (1 Kings 18:40). It underscores the seriousness of leading God's people astray and the need for purging evil from the community.

And Jehoiada the priest posted guards for the house of the LORD.
Jehoiada's actions demonstrate his commitment to protecting the sanctity of the temple and ensuring the proper worship of Yahweh. By posting guards, he safeguards the newly restored worship practices and prevents any resurgence of idolatry. This act of vigilance is akin to the role of the Levites, who were charged with guarding the tabernacle (Numbers 1:53). Jehoiada's leadership is a type of Christ, who cleanses the temple and restores true worship (John 2:13-17).

He took with him the commanders of hundreds
This phrase refers to the military leaders who were responsible for overseeing groups of a hundred soldiers. In the context of ancient Israel, these commanders played a crucial role in maintaining order and executing military strategies. Their involvement in this event underscores the importance of military support in establishing and securing a king's rule.

the Carites
The Carites were likely a group of foreign mercenaries or a specific ethnic group serving as royal bodyguards. Their presence indicates the use of non-Israelite forces for protection, a common practice in ancient Near Eastern monarchies to ensure loyalty and security.

the guards
These were the palace guards responsible for the safety of the king and the royal household. Their inclusion in this event highlights the need for internal security during a time of political transition, ensuring that the king's ascent to the throne was protected from internal threats.

and all the people of the land
This phrase signifies the involvement of the general populace in the coronation of the king. It reflects the communal aspect of kingship in Israel, where the support of the people was essential for a legitimate and stable reign. This public participation also emphasizes the restoration of rightful leadership after a period of turmoil.

and they brought the king down from the house of the LORD
The house of the LORD refers to the temple, a central place of worship and a symbol of God's presence among His people. Bringing the king from the temple signifies divine approval and blessing on the new ruler, aligning the kingship with religious authority and covenantal promises.

and entered the royal palace by way of the Gate of the Guards
The Gate of the Guards was a specific entrance to the royal palace, likely used for official and ceremonial purposes. This route underscores the formal and legitimate nature of the king's entry into his royal duties, marking the transition from religious consecration to political authority.

Then Joash took his seat on the royal throne
Joash's ascension to the throne marks the fulfillment of God's promise to preserve the Davidic line, despite previous attempts to eradicate it. His enthronement is a testament to God's faithfulness and sovereignty in maintaining His covenant with David, foreshadowing the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the eternal King from David's lineage.

and all the people of the land rejoiced.
This phrase indicates a collective sense of relief and joy among the people of Judah. The rejoicing follows the end of Athaliah's tyrannical rule, which was marked by idolatry and violence. The people’s joy reflects a return to the Davidic line through Joash, which was significant for maintaining the covenantal promises God made to David (2 Samuel 7:12-16). This moment of rejoicing can be seen as a type of the ultimate joy believers will experience in the reign of Christ, the true King from the line of David (Matthew 1:1).

And the city was quiet,
The quietness of the city signifies peace and stability after a period of turmoil and unrest. Athaliah's reign was characterized by chaos and the usurpation of the throne, which disrupted the social and religious order. The quietness can be seen as a fulfillment of God's promise to bring peace to His people when they follow His ways (Leviticus 26:6). This peace foreshadows the peace that Christ brings to the hearts of believers and ultimately to the world (John 14:27).

because Athaliah had been put to the sword at the royal palace.
Athaliah's execution marks the end of her illegitimate rule. She was the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, and her reign in Judah was an extension of the idolatry and wickedness associated with her parents. Her death at the royal palace, the center of her power, symbolizes the removal of evil from the heart of the nation. This act of justice aligns with the biblical principle that God will not allow wickedness to prevail indefinitely (Psalm 37:28). The removal of Athaliah can be seen as a precursor to the ultimate defeat of evil through Christ's victory over sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:57).

Joash was seven years old
Joash's ascension to the throne at such a young age is significant in the biblical narrative. His survival and eventual kingship are a testament to God's providence and the fulfillment of His promises to David's lineage. Joash was hidden in the temple for six years by his aunt Jehosheba and the priest Jehoiada, protecting him from the murderous intentions of Athaliah, who sought to destroy the royal line. This act of preservation highlights the importance of the Davidic covenant, where God promised that David's descendants would continue to rule. Joash's young age also emphasizes his dependence on the guidance of Jehoiada, the high priest, who played a crucial role in his early reign. This situation mirrors other instances in Scripture where God uses the weak or young to accomplish His purposes, such as David's anointing as king while still a shepherd boy.

when he became king
Joash's enthronement marks a pivotal moment in Judah's history, as it signifies the restoration of the Davidic line after Athaliah's usurpation. His reign began with a covenant renewal, where the people and the king pledged allegiance to the Lord, highlighting the theocratic nature of Israel's monarchy. Joash's kingship is a reminder of God's faithfulness to His promises, despite human failures and attempts to thwart His plans. The coronation of Joash also foreshadows the ultimate fulfillment of the Davidic covenant in Jesus Christ, the eternal King from David's line, who would establish an everlasting kingdom. Joash's reign, beginning at such a tender age, underscores the theme of divine sovereignty and the idea that God can raise leaders according to His will, regardless of human expectations or circumstances.