Jehoshaphat, the son of Asa, was the fourth king of the Kingdom of Judah, reigning from approximately 873 to 849 BC. His reign is noted for religious reforms, military alliances, and economic prosperity. Jehoshaphat is a significant figure in the biblical narrative, and his account is primarily found in 1 Kings 22 and 2 Chronicles 17-20.

Accession to the Throne

Jehoshaphat succeeded his father Asa as king of Judah. Asa had been a reformer, and Jehoshaphat continued in his father's footsteps, seeking to strengthen the spiritual and political state of Judah. The Berean Standard Bible records, "Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his place and strengthened himself against Israel" (2 Chronicles 17:1).

Religious Reforms

Jehoshaphat is commended for his commitment to the worship of Yahweh. He removed the high places and Asherah poles, which were associated with idolatrous practices. The Bible states, "He walked in the ways of his father Asa and did not turn aside from them, doing what was right in the eyes of the LORD" (2 Chronicles 20:32). Jehoshaphat also sent officials, along with Levites and priests, throughout Judah to teach the people the Book of the Law of the LORD, as noted in 2 Chronicles 17:7-9.

Military and Political Alliances

Jehoshaphat fortified Judah and built up a formidable army. He is known for his alliance with Ahab, king of Israel, through the marriage of his son Jehoram to Ahab's daughter Athaliah. This alliance, however, led to complications, as Ahab's influence was not aligned with Jehoshaphat's religious convictions. Despite this, Jehoshaphat joined Ahab in a military campaign against Ramoth-gilead, where Ahab was killed (1 Kings 22:29-33).

Economic Prosperity

Under Jehoshaphat's rule, Judah experienced economic growth and stability. He established trade routes and built store cities. The Bible notes, "Jehoshaphat grew stronger and stronger. He built fortresses and store cities in Judah" (2 Chronicles 17:12). His reign was marked by peace and prosperity, as the surrounding nations feared the LORD and did not wage war against Judah (2 Chronicles 17:10).

Challenges and Divine Deliverance

Jehoshaphat faced a significant challenge when a coalition of Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites came against Judah. In response, Jehoshaphat sought the LORD in prayer and proclaimed a fast throughout Judah. The LORD answered through the prophet Jahaziel, assuring victory without the need for battle. The Bible recounts, "Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's" (2 Chronicles 20:15). The LORD set ambushes against the enemy, leading to their defeat (2 Chronicles 20:22-24).

Legacy

Jehoshaphat's reign is remembered for his dedication to God and his efforts to lead Judah in righteousness. Despite some political missteps, his commitment to the LORD brought blessings and stability to the kingdom. His account serves as a testament to the importance of faithfulness and reliance on divine guidance.1 Kings 15:24
And Asa slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David his father: and Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his stead.
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1 Kings 22:41
And Jehoshaphat the son of Asa began to reign over Judah in the fourth year of Ahab king of Israel.
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1 Chronicles 3:10
And Solomon's son was Rehoboam, Abia his son, Asa his son, Jehoshaphat his son,
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2 Chronicles 17:1
And Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his stead, and strengthened himself against Israel.
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Matthew 1:8
And Asa begat Josaphat; and Josaphat begat Joram; and Joram begat Ozias;
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The Antiquities of the Jews
... CHAPTER 4. Jehoram Succeeds Jehoshaphat; How Joram, His Namesake, King ... Reigned Over
The Tribe Of Judah; And What ... His Stead; Against Whom Rezin, King Of Syria ...
//christianbookshelf.org/josephus/the antiquities of the jews/

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... the XXIInd (Bubastite) dynasty"Sheshonq I. as king and his ... two Hebrew "kingdoms";
the fidelity of Judah to the ... changes of dynasty in Israel"Asa and Baasha ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

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