Joash, also known as Jehoash, was a significant figure in the history of Judah, serving as its king from approximately 835 to 796 BC. He was the son of King Ahaziah and became king at a very young age under extraordinary circumstances. His reign is noted for both religious reforms and tragic failures, particularly in his later years.

Early Life and Ascension to the Throne

Joash was born into the royal lineage of David, the son of Ahaziah, king 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 brought out of hiding by Jehoiada the priest, who orchestrated a coup against Athaliah. Joash was anointed king in a dramatic ceremony that restored the Davidic line to the throne (2 Kings 11:12). Jehoiada's influence was pivotal during the early years of Joash's reign, guiding him in the ways of the LORD.

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 a collection to fund the temple's restoration, demonstrating his commitment to the worship of Yahweh (2 Kings 12:4-15). This period of his reign was marked by a return to the covenantal faithfulness that characterized the best of Judah's kings.

Later Years and Downfall

Tragically, Joash's reign took a negative turn after the death of Jehoiada. Without the priest's godly influence, Joash's commitment to the LORD waned. He began to listen to the advice of less faithful counselors, leading to idolatry and apostasy (2 Chronicles 24:17-18).

One of the most grievous acts of Joash's later years was the execution of Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada. Zechariah, filled with the Spirit of God, confronted the people and Joash for their unfaithfulness, saying, "Why do you transgress the commandments of the LORD so that you cannot prosper? Because you have forsaken the LORD, He has forsaken you" (2 Chronicles 24:20). In response, Joash ordered Zechariah to be stoned to death in the temple courts, an act of profound ingratitude and betrayal (2 Chronicles 24:21).

Death and Legacy

Joash's reign ended in violence. He was assassinated by his own officials, who conspired against him as retribution for the murder of Zechariah (2 Chronicles 24:25-26). Joash was buried in the City of David, but notably, not in the tombs of the kings, reflecting the tarnished legacy of his later years.

Joash's life serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of steadfast faith and the dangers of turning away from godly counsel. His early reforms and tragic end highlight the complexities of leadership and the enduring need for faithfulness to God's commandments.2 Chronicles 24:20-22
And the Spirit of God came on Zechariah the son of Jehoiada the priest, which stood above the people, and said to them, Thus said God, Why transgress you the commandments of the LORD, that you cannot prosper? because you have forsaken the LORD, he has also forsaken you.
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Matthew 23:35
That on you may come all the righteous blood shed on the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom you slew between the temple and the altar.
Nave's Topical Index

Jehoiada and Joash
... Next, Athaliah, the mother of Ahaziah and a daughter of ... did the prudent Jehoiada
venture to bring Joash out from ... but, as in verse 4, 'the king's son.' He was ...
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Who was King Joash in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Jehoiada in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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