Joash, also known as Jehoash, was a significant figure in the history of Judah, known for his efforts to restore the Temple in Jerusalem. He was the son of King Ahaziah and became king under extraordinary circumstances, marked by divine providence and the influence of godly counsel.

Early Life and Ascension to the Throne

Joash was born into the royal lineage of David, but his early life was fraught with danger. After the death of his father, King Ahaziah, his grandmother Athaliah seized the throne and sought to eliminate the entire royal family. However, Joash was saved by his aunt Jehosheba, who hid him in the Temple for six years (2 Kings 11:2-3). During this time, he was under the protection and guidance of Jehoiada, the high priest.

At the age of seven, Joash was anointed king in a carefully orchestrated coup led by Jehoiada. The people of Judah rejoiced, and Athaliah was executed, ending her tyrannical rule (2 Kings 11:12-16).

Reign and Religious Reforms

Joash's reign is noted for its religious reforms, particularly the restoration of the Temple, which had fallen into disrepair during the reign of Athaliah. Under the guidance of Jehoiada, Joash initiated a project to repair the Temple, emphasizing the importance of worship and adherence to the covenant with God.

The king instructed the priests to collect funds from the people to finance the repairs. However, when progress was slow, Joash took a more direct approach by placing a chest at the Temple entrance to gather contributions (2 Kings 12:4-9). This initiative was successful, and the Temple was restored to its former glory, reflecting Joash's commitment to honoring God.

Challenges and Decline

Despite his early successes, Joash's reign faced challenges, particularly after the death of Jehoiada. Without the high priest's guidance, Joash's commitment to God wavered. Influenced by other advisors, he allowed idolatry to creep back into Judah, leading to spiritual decline (2 Chronicles 24:17-18).

Joash's later years were marked by political and military difficulties. He faced threats from external enemies, including the Arameans, who invaded Judah and plundered Jerusalem (2 Kings 12:17-18). His failure to remain steadfast in his faith ultimately led to his downfall.

Death and Legacy

Joash's reign ended tragically when he was assassinated by his own officials in a conspiracy (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).

Joash's story serves as a reminder of the importance of godly leadership and the dangers of turning away from divine guidance. His initial zeal for restoring the Temple and promoting true worship highlights the potential for positive change when leaders prioritize their relationship with God. However, his later failures underscore the need for continual faithfulness and reliance on God's wisdom throughout one's life.2 Kings 12:4-16
And Jehoash said to the priests, All the money of the dedicated things that is brought into the house of the LORD, even the money of every one that passes the account, the money that every man is set at, and all the money that comes into any man's heart to bring into the house of the LORD,
Nave's Topical Index

2 Chronicles 24:4-14,27
And it came to pass after this, that Joash was minded to repair the house of the LORD.
Nave's Topical Index

The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria
... envelop the history of this period; he repaired the gate ... Madara belonged to a certain
Lapturi, son of Tubusi ... mentioned in the campaign of the king's second year ...
/.../chapter ithe assyrian revival and.htm

Appendices
... 846 Ahaziah or Jehoahaz 842 Athaliah 842 Joash 837 Amaziah ... by the Assyrians at Qarqar
853 Ahaziah 852 Revolt ... and powerful prince of the Hittites, the son of Mar ...
/.../sayce/early israel and the surrounding nations/appendices.htm

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