Topical Bible: Jerusalem: Captured and Pillaged by Jehoash, King of Israel

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Topical Encyclopedia

The event of Jerusalem being captured and pillaged by Jehoash, King of Israel, is a significant episode in the history of the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah. This event is recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in 2 Kings 14:8-14 and 2 Chronicles 25:17-24, and it highlights the consequences of pride and disobedience to God.

Historical Context

The period of the divided monarchy was marked by frequent conflicts between the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. Jehoash (also known as Joash) was the king of Israel, reigning from approximately 798 to 782 BC. Amaziah, the son of Joash, was the king of Judah during this time. Amaziah's reign is noted for his initial obedience to God, but later he turned away, which led to his downfall.

The Conflict

The conflict between Jehoash and Amaziah arose after Amaziah, emboldened by his victory over the Edomites, challenged Jehoash to battle. This challenge is recorded in 2 Kings 14:8 : "Then Amaziah sent messengers to the king of Israel, Jehoash son of Jehoahaz, the son of Jehu. 'Come, let us meet face to face,' he said." Jehoash responded with a parable, warning Amaziah of the dangers of pride and overconfidence, likening him to a thistle challenging a cedar (2 Kings 14:9-10).

Despite the warning, Amaziah proceeded with his challenge, leading to a battle at Beth-shemesh in Judah. The forces of Judah were decisively defeated by Israel, and Amaziah was captured.

The Pillaging of Jerusalem

Following the victory, Jehoash advanced to Jerusalem. The city was vulnerable, and Jehoash took advantage of this opportunity to plunder it. As recorded in 2 Kings 14:13-14 : "Then Jehoash king of Israel captured Amaziah king of Judah, the son of Joash, the son of Ahaziah, at Beth-shemesh. Then Jehoash went to Jerusalem and broke down the wall of Jerusalem from the Gate of Ephraim to the Corner Gate, a section of four hundred cubits. He took all the gold and silver and all the articles found in the house of the LORD and in the treasuries of the royal palace, as well as some hostages. Then he returned to Samaria."

This act of pillaging not only weakened the defenses of Jerusalem by breaking down a significant portion of its wall but also stripped the city of its wealth, including treasures from the temple of the LORD. The taking of hostages further demonstrated the dominance of Israel over Judah at this time.

Theological Implications

The capture and pillaging of Jerusalem by Jehoash serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of pride and disobedience to God. Amaziah's initial faithfulness was overshadowed by his later actions, which led to his humiliation and the suffering of his people. This event underscores the biblical principle that reliance on God and humility are essential for leadership and success.

Moreover, the incident reflects the broader theme of the cyclical nature of sin and redemption in the history of Israel and Judah. Despite the failures of their leaders, God's covenant promises remained, pointing forward to the ultimate redemption through the Messiah.

Conclusion

The capture and pillaging of Jerusalem by Jehoash is a pivotal moment in the history of the divided kingdoms, illustrating the perils of pride and the importance of faithfulness to God. This event is a testament to the enduring lessons found in the biblical narrative, emphasizing the need for humility and obedience in the lives of God's people.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Kings 14:13,14
And Jehoash king of Israel took Amaziah king of Judah, the son of Jehoash the son of Ahaziah, at Bethshemesh, and came to Jerusalem, and broke down the wall of Jerusalem from the gate of Ephraim to the corner gate, four hundred cubits.
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2 Chronicles 25:23,24
And Joash the king of Israel took Amaziah king of Judah, the son of Joash, the son of Jehoahaz, at Bethshemesh, and brought him to Jerusalem, and broke down the wall of Jerusalem from the gate of Ephraim to the corner gate, four hundred cubits.
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Library

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... David's former battle-fields, and had captured their capital ... Jehoash entered Jerusalem
and dismantled its walls for ... unto the corner gate;" he pillaged the Temple ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm