Jehoiada, a prominent figure in the history of Judah, served as the high priest during the reigns of Kings Ahaziah, Athaliah, and Joash. His influence was pivotal in the religious and political landscape of the kingdom, particularly during a time of significant turmoil and transition.

Influence

Jehoiada's most notable contribution was his role in the preservation of the Davidic line and the restoration of true worship in Judah. During the reign of Athaliah, who had usurped the throne following the death of her son Ahaziah, Jehoiada acted decisively to protect the royal lineage. Athaliah, a daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, sought to exterminate the house of David, but Jehoiada and his wife Jehosheba hid the young Joash, the rightful heir, in the temple for six years (2 Kings 11:2-3; 2 Chronicles 22:11-12).

In the seventh year, Jehoiada orchestrated a coup to dethrone Athaliah and install Joash as king. He gathered the commanders, the Carites, and the guards, making a covenant with them in the house of the LORD. Jehoiada presented Joash to them, and they anointed him king, proclaiming, "Long live the king!" (2 Kings 11:12). This act not only secured the Davidic line but also marked a return to the worship of Yahweh, as Jehoiada led the people in a covenant to be the LORD's people (2 Kings 11:17).

Jehoiada's influence extended beyond the political realm into religious reform. Under his guidance, the temple of Baal was destroyed, its altars and images were broken, and the priest of Baal was executed (2 Kings 11:18). Jehoiada restored the proper worship of Yahweh, reestablishing the Levitical priesthood and the observance of the Law of Moses. His leadership ensured that the temple services were conducted according to the prescriptions given by David and Solomon (2 Chronicles 23:18).

Death

Jehoiada's death marked the end of an era of stability and faithfulness in Judah. He lived to the age of 130, a testament to his righteousness and the favor of God upon his life. His passing is recorded with honor, as he was buried among the kings in the City of David, "because he had done good in Israel, for God and His temple" (2 Chronicles 24:16).

However, after Jehoiada's death, the spiritual decline of Judah became evident. King Joash, who had been under Jehoiada's tutelage, succumbed to the influence of the officials of Judah, who led him away from the worship of Yahweh. They abandoned the house of the LORD and served Asherah poles and idols, provoking God's wrath against Judah and Jerusalem (2 Chronicles 24:17-18).

Jehoiada's legacy serves as a reminder of the impact of godly leadership and the importance of faithfulness to God's covenant. His life and actions were instrumental in preserving the Davidic line and restoring the worship of Yahweh, setting a standard for future generations.