Topical Encyclopedia Jehoshaphat, the son of Asa, was the fourth king of the Kingdom of Judah, reigning from approximately 873 to 849 BC. His reign is documented in the biblical books of 1 Kings, 2 Kings, and 2 Chronicles. Jehoshaphat is remembered as a king who sought to follow the ways of the Lord, continuing the religious reforms initiated by his father, Asa.Reign and Religious Reforms Jehoshaphat ascended to the throne at the age of 35 and reigned for 25 years. His reign is characterized by a commitment to the worship of Yahweh and the eradication of idolatry in Judah. 2 Chronicles 17:3-4 states, "Now the LORD was with Jehoshaphat because he walked in the earlier ways of his father David. He did not seek out the Baals, but sought the God of his father and walked by His commandments rather than the practices of Israel." Jehoshaphat's religious reforms included sending officials, along with Levites and priests, throughout the cities of Judah to teach the people from the Book of the Law of the LORD (2 Chronicles 17:7-9). This initiative helped to strengthen the spiritual foundation of the nation and distinguish Judah from the idolatrous practices of the northern kingdom of Israel. Political Alliances and Military Campaigns Jehoshaphat's reign was marked by a strategic alliance with the northern kingdom of Israel, initially through a marriage alliance with King Ahab's family. This alliance, however, led to some controversial decisions, including Jehoshaphat's participation in a military campaign with Ahab against Ramoth-gilead. Despite the alliance, Jehoshaphat maintained his commitment to seeking God's guidance, as seen in 1 Kings 22:5 , where he said to Ahab, "Please inquire first for the word of the LORD." Jehoshaphat's military endeavors were generally successful, and he fortified Judah's defenses by building strongholds and store cities (2 Chronicles 17:12). His military might was further demonstrated when he faced a coalition of Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites. In response to this threat, Jehoshaphat called for a national fast and sought the LORD's help. The LORD delivered Judah without the need for battle, as recounted in 2 Chronicles 20:22 : "As they began to sing and praise, the LORD set ambushes against the men of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir who had come against Judah, and they were defeated." Judicial Reforms and Administration Jehoshaphat also implemented judicial reforms to ensure justice and righteousness in the land. He appointed judges in the fortified cities of Judah and instructed them to judge with integrity and the fear of the LORD (2 Chronicles 19:5-7). He emphasized the importance of impartiality and accountability, reminding the judges that they were to act on behalf of the LORD. Legacy and Death Jehoshaphat's reign is often viewed as a period of religious revival and national stability. His dedication to the LORD and his efforts to lead Judah in righteousness left a lasting impact on the kingdom. Despite some missteps, particularly in his alliances with Israel, Jehoshaphat is remembered as a king who earnestly sought to honor God. Jehoshaphat died and was buried with his ancestors in the City of David. His son Jehoram succeeded him as king. The legacy of Jehoshaphat's reign is captured in 2 Chronicles 20:32 : "And he walked in the way of his father Asa and did not turn aside from it, doing what was right in the eyes of the LORD." Strong's Hebrew 1134. Ben-chayil -- "son of might," one of Jehoshaphat's leaders... Ben-chayil. 1135 . "son of might," one of Jehoshaphat's leaders. Transliteration: Ben-chayil Phonetic Spelling: (ben-khah'-yil) Short Definition: Benhail. ... /hebrew/1134.htm - 6k 7977. Shilchi -- Jehoshaphat's grandfather Library Jehoshaphat's Reform 'A Mirror for Magistrates' A Strange Battle Concerning Jehoshaphat the King of Jerusalem and How Ahab Made an ... Jehoshaphat Holding Fast and Held Fast Ahaziah The Kingdom Op Judah. Amasiah That the Employing Of, and Associating with the Malignant Party ... Thesaurus Jehoshaphat's (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Jehoshaphat's (2 Occurrences). 1 Kings 22:45 Now the rest of the acts of Jehoshaphat, and his might that ... /j/jehoshaphat's.htm - 7k Jehoshaphat (79 Occurrences) Jehohanan (9 Occurrences) Jehosheba (2 Occurrences) Zedekiah (63 Occurrences) Zebadiah (9 Occurrences) Zechariah (55 Occurrences) Jehozabad (4 Occurrences) Jehiel (17 Occurrences) Ezion-geber (6 Occurrences) Resources Who was King Jehoram / Joram in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Obadiah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Micaiah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Jehoshaphat's (2 Occurrences)1 Kings 22:45 2 Chronicles 20:34 Subtopics Related Terms |
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