Joah, the son of Asaph, is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically within the historical context of the Kingdom of Judah. He is noted for his role during the reign of King Hezekiah, one of the more prominent kings of Judah known for his religious reforms and efforts to restore the worship of Yahweh.

Biblical References:

Joah is primarily mentioned in the context of the Assyrian threat to Jerusalem during the reign of Hezekiah. His role is documented in 2 Kings 18:18 and 2 Kings 18:26, as well as in Isaiah 36:3 and Isaiah 36:11. These passages describe a critical moment when the Assyrian king Sennacherib sent his field commander, the Rabshakeh, to Jerusalem to demand its surrender.

In 2 Kings 18:18 , the text states: "They called for the king, and Eliakim son of Hilkiah, the palace administrator, Shebna the scribe, and Joah son of Asaph, the recorder, went out to them." This verse highlights Joah's position as the recorder, a significant administrative role in the royal court, responsible for maintaining records and possibly serving as a royal chronicler.

Role and Significance:

Joah's position as the recorder indicates his importance in the administration of the kingdom. As a son of Asaph, he likely belonged to a family with a strong musical and liturgical heritage, as Asaph is traditionally recognized as one of the leaders of David's choir and a prominent figure in the Psalms. This connection suggests that Joah's family was deeply involved in the religious and cultural life of Judah.

During the encounter with the Assyrian envoys, Joah, along with Eliakim and Shebna, represented King Hezekiah in negotiations. In 2 Kings 18:26 , the text records: "Then Eliakim son of Hilkiah, Shebna, and Joah said to the Rabshakeh, 'Please speak to your servants in Aramaic, since we understand it. Do not speak to us in Hebrew in the hearing of the people on the wall.'" This request was made to prevent panic among the people of Jerusalem, demonstrating Joah's awareness of the psychological impact of the Assyrian threats and his concern for maintaining morale within the city.

Historical and Theological Context:

Joah's involvement in this episode underscores the tense political and military situation faced by Judah during Hezekiah's reign. The Assyrian Empire was a dominant force in the region, and its campaign against Judah was part of a broader strategy to assert control over the Levant. Hezekiah's resistance, supported by figures like Joah, is seen as an act of faith and reliance on divine intervention, as the narrative ultimately emphasizes God's deliverance of Jerusalem from the Assyrian threat.

Theologically, Joah's presence in the narrative serves to highlight the importance of faithful leadership and the role of trusted officials in supporting the king's efforts to uphold the covenant with Yahweh. His actions, alongside those of Eliakim and Shebna, reflect the broader theme of reliance on God rather than solely on political or military alliances.

In summary, Joah, son of Asaph, is a significant yet understated figure in the biblical narrative, representing the administrative and spiritual continuity within the Kingdom of Judah during a time of crisis. His role as recorder and his participation in the diplomatic engagement with Assyria illustrate the complexities of leadership and faith in the face of external threats.2 Kings 18:18,26
And when they had called to the king, there came out to them Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, which was over the household, and Shebna the scribe, and Joah the son of Asaph the recorder.
Nave's Topical Index

Isaiah 36:3,11,22
Then came forth to him Eliakim, Hilkiah's son, which was over the house, and Shebna the scribe, and Joah, Asaph's son, the recorder.
Nave's Topical Index

A Prophet who Saved a Great City
... they arrived at Jerusalem, they called for Hezekiah the ruler of Judah, Eliakim,
the son of Hilkiah, Shebnah, the scribe, and Joah, the son of Asaph, and they ...
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