Topical Encyclopedia
Jehoahaz, the son of Jehu, was anointed as the king of Israel, continuing the dynastic line established by his father. His reign is documented in the historical books of the Old Testament, specifically in 2 Kings. Jehoahaz's anointing and subsequent rule are significant in understanding the spiritual and political climate of Israel during this period.
Historical ContextJehoahaz ascended to the throne of Israel following the death of his father, Jehu, who had been anointed by the prophet Elisha to eradicate the house of Ahab and to bring reform to the nation (
2 Kings 9:1-10). Jehoahaz's reign is marked by a continuation of the struggles against the encroaching powers of Aram (Syria) and the internal challenges of idolatry and apostasy that plagued the Northern Kingdom.
Anointing and ReignThe anointing of Jehoahaz, while not explicitly detailed in the biblical text, is implied as part of the royal succession practices of Israel. Anointing with oil was a symbolic act of consecration, setting apart an individual for divine service and leadership. It signified the empowerment of the Holy Spirit and the legitimization of the king's authority under God's covenant with Israel.
Jehoahaz reigned for 17 years in Samaria, as recorded in
2 Kings 13:1: "In the twenty-third year of Joash son of Ahaziah, king of Judah, Jehoahaz son of Jehu became king of Israel in Samaria, and he reigned seventeen years." His reign was characterized by a mixture of political challenges and spiritual failures. Despite his anointing, Jehoahaz "did evil in the sight of the LORD and followed the sins of Jeroboam son of Nebat, which he had caused Israel to commit, and he did not turn away from them" (
2 Kings 13:2).
Spiritual and Political ChallengesDuring Jehoahaz's reign, Israel faced significant oppression from Hazael, king of Aram, and his son Ben-Hadad. This oppression was a direct consequence of Israel's continued idolatry and disobedience to the covenant with Yahweh. The biblical narrative highlights that Jehoahaz sought the LORD's favor during this time of distress: "Then Jehoahaz sought the favor of the LORD, and the LORD listened to him, for He saw the oppression that the king of Aram had inflicted on Israel" (
2 Kings 13:4).
God, in His mercy, provided a deliverer for Israel, allowing them to escape the hand of the Arameans. However, the spiritual reformation that might have been expected following such divine intervention did not fully materialize. The high places of idolatry remained, and the people continued in their sinful practices.
LegacyJehoahaz's reign is a poignant reminder of the complexities of leadership in ancient Israel, where the anointing of a king did not guarantee faithfulness to God's commands. His account underscores the importance of obedience and the consequences of spiritual compromise. Despite his failures, Jehoahaz's anointing as king was part of God's sovereign plan, illustrating the tension between divine purpose and human agency in the history of Israel.
Nave's Topical Index
2 Kings 23:30And his servants carried him in a chariot dead from Megiddo, and brought him to Jerusalem, and buried him in his own sepulcher. And the people of the land took Jehoahaz the son of Josiah, and anointed him, and made him king in his father's stead.
Nave's Topical Index
Library
Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... and the cities previously annexed by Jehoahaz must, therefore ... the anointing of Saul
(1 Samuel 9:16; x.1 ... and had granted him that religious consecration which had ...
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Resources
What is extreme unction / last rites? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of the olive tree in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Gideon in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgAnointing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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