Background:
Joash, also known as Jehoash, was the king of Judah who reigned from approximately 835 to 796 BC. He was the son of Ahaziah and was saved from the massacre of the royal family by his aunt Jehosheba and raised in the temple by the high priest Jehoiada. Joash ascended to the throne at the tender age of seven, under the guidance and mentorship of Jehoiada, who played a crucial role in his early reign (2 Kings 11:2-3; 2 Chronicles 22:11-12).

Reign and Reforms:
During the early years of his reign, Joash was known for his commitment to restoring the temple and re-establishing the worship of Yahweh. Under the influence of Jehoiada, Joash initiated significant repairs to the temple, which had been neglected and desecrated during the reign of his predecessors (2 Kings 12:4-16; 2 Chronicles 24:4-14). His reign was marked by a return to the covenantal faithfulness of the people of Judah, as long as Jehoiada was alive.

Turning Away from God:
After the death of Jehoiada, Joash's reign took a tragic turn. Influenced by the officials of Judah, Joash abandoned the house of the LORD and began to serve Asherah poles and idols. This apostasy provoked the LORD's anger, and He sent prophets to bring Joash and the people back to Him, but they would not listen (2 Chronicles 24:17-19).

Zechariah's Martyrdom:
One of the most significant events during this period was the martyrdom of Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada. Filled with the Spirit of God, Zechariah stood before the people and rebuked them for their transgressions. In a tragic betrayal, Joash ordered Zechariah to be stoned to death in the temple court, an act that would bring divine retribution upon him (2 Chronicles 24:20-22).

Wounding and Assassination:
The LORD's judgment upon Joash came swiftly. The Aramean army invaded Judah and Jerusalem, and although they were a small force, the LORD delivered a much larger army into their hands because the people had forsaken Him. Joash was severely wounded during this invasion (2 Chronicles 24:23-24).

While he lay on his sickbed, Joash was assassinated by his own officials. Zabad and Jehozabad, two of his servants, conspired against him and killed him in the house of Millo, on the road that goes down to Silla. This act of treachery was in retaliation for the blood of Zechariah, fulfilling the divine judgment pronounced upon Joash (2 Kings 12:20-21; 2 Chronicles 24:25-26).

Aftermath:
Joash was buried in the City of David, but notably, he was not laid to rest in the tombs of the kings, reflecting the dishonor brought upon his legacy due to his apostasy and the murder of Zechariah (2 Chronicles 24:25). His son Amaziah succeeded him as king, inheriting a kingdom in need of spiritual and moral restoration.