Joash, also known as Jehoash, was a significant figure in the history of the Kingdom of Judah. He was the son of King Ahaziah and became king under extraordinary circumstances. His reign is noted for both religious reform and tragic downfall, as recorded in the biblical narrative.

Early Life and Ascension to the Throne

Joash was born into the royal lineage of David, the son of King Ahaziah of Judah. His early life was marked by turmoil. After the death of his father, Ahaziah, his grandmother Athaliah seized the throne and attempted to exterminate the royal family to secure her position. However, Joash was saved by his aunt Jehosheba, who hid him in the temple of the LORD for six years (2 Kings 11:2-3).

At the age of seven, Joash was anointed king in a carefully orchestrated coup led by the high priest Jehoiada. The people of Judah rejoiced as Athaliah was overthrown and executed (2 Kings 11:12-16). Joash's ascension marked a return to the Davidic line and a renewed hope for the nation.

Religious Reforms

Under the guidance of Jehoiada, Joash initiated significant religious reforms. He is credited with restoring the temple, which had fallen into disrepair during Athaliah's reign. Joash organized the collection of funds to repair the temple, demonstrating a commitment to the worship of Yahweh (2 Kings 12:4-15). This period of reform was marked by a renewed focus on the covenant and adherence to the laws of Moses.

Challenges and Downfall

Despite his promising start, Joash's reign faced challenges. After the death of Jehoiada, Joash's commitment to the LORD wavered. Influenced by officials who led him away from the worship of Yahweh, Joash allowed idolatry to resurface in Judah (2 Chronicles 24:17-18). This apostasy provoked the LORD's anger, and prophets were sent to call the king and the people back to faithfulness.

One of the most notable confrontations came from Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada, who rebuked the people for their unfaithfulness. In a tragic turn of events, Joash ordered Zechariah's execution, an act that marked a significant moral and spiritual decline (2 Chronicles 24:20-22).

Joash's reign ended in conspiracy and violence. Discontent with his leadership, his own officials conspired against him. Joash was assassinated by his servants at the house of Millo, on the road that goes down to Silla (2 Kings 12:20-21). He was buried in the City of David, but not in the tombs of the kings, reflecting the mixed legacy of his rule (2 Chronicles 24:25).

Legacy

Joash's life and reign serve as a cautionary tale about the importance of steadfast faith and the dangers of turning away from divine guidance. His initial reforms and dedication to the temple highlight the potential for positive leadership, while his later years underscore the consequences of abandoning one's spiritual commitments. Joash's story is a reminder of the enduring need for faithfulness to God and the perils of succumbing to external influences.2 Kings 12:20,21
And his servants arose, and made a conspiracy, and slew Joash in the house of Millo, which goes down to Silla.
Nave's Topical Index

2 Chronicles 24:25,26
And when they were departed from him, (for they left him in great diseases,) his own servants conspired against him for the blood of the sons of Jehoiada the priest, and slew him on his bed, and he died: and they buried him in the city of David, but they buried him not in the sepulchers of the kings.
Nave's Topical Index

On the Righteousness and Efficacy of the Providence of God ...
... him; which was a token of divine anger against Ahaziah and the ... the will of God, to
have his own Son as a ... would not hearken to the answer of Joash king of Israel ...
/.../the works of james arminius vol 1/disputation 9 on the righteousness.htm

Who was King Joash in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Jehoiada in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Does the Bible say anything about grandparents? | GotQuestions.org

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