Topical Encyclopedia Joash, also known as Jehoash, was a king of the northern kingdom of Israel. He was the son of King Jehoahaz and the grandson of King Jehu, who had eradicated the house of Ahab. Joash reigned in Israel during the 8th century BC, approximately from 798 to 782 BC. His reign is documented in the biblical books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles.Background and Ascension to the Throne Joash ascended to the throne of Israel following the death of his father, Jehoahaz. The political and spiritual climate of Israel during his reign was marked by idolatry and apostasy, a continuation of the practices that had been prevalent since the time of Jeroboam I. Despite the spiritual decline, Joash's reign was characterized by a period of relative stability and military success. Military Achievements One of the notable aspects of Joash's reign was his military campaigns against the Arameans. Under his leadership, Israel regained territories that had been lost to the Arameans during the reign of his father. This was in fulfillment of the prophecy given by the prophet Elisha, who had instructed Joash to strike the ground with arrows as a symbol of his victories over Aram. Joash struck the ground three times, and Elisha declared that he would defeat the Arameans three times (2 Kings 13:18-19). Joash's military prowess was further demonstrated in his conflict with Amaziah, the king of Judah. The two kings engaged in battle at Beth-shemesh, where Joash defeated Amaziah and subsequently captured him. Joash then proceeded to break down a section of the wall of Jerusalem and plundered the temple and the royal palace (2 Kings 14:11-14). Religious Context Despite his military successes, Joash did not lead Israel back to the worship of Yahweh. The high places, where unauthorized worship occurred, were not removed, and the people continued in the sins of Jeroboam, which included the worship of golden calves (2 Kings 13:11). Joash's reign, therefore, did not bring about the spiritual reform that was needed in Israel. Death and Succession Joash reigned for sixteen years before his death. He was succeeded by his son Jeroboam II, who continued to rule over Israel. Joash's reign is summarized in the biblical narrative as one that, while marked by military achievements, failed to address the spiritual apostasy of the nation. His acts are recorded in the annals of the kings of Israel, as noted in the biblical text (2 Kings 13:12-13). Legacy Joash's legacy is a complex one, as he is remembered for his military victories and territorial expansions, yet also for his failure to lead Israel back to the covenant faithfulness required by God. His reign serves as a reminder of the importance of spiritual leadership and the consequences of neglecting the worship of the one true God. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 22:26And the king of Israel said, Take Micaiah, and carry him back to Amon the governor of the city, and to Joash the king's son; Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 18:25 Library Concerning Jeroboam King of Israel and Jonah the Prophet; and How ... The Fall of the House of Ahab Jehoiada and Joash Genealogy of Jesus According to Matthew. Hazael Makes an Expedition against the People of Israel and the ... The Kingdom Op Judah. Book 9 Footnotes How Amaziah Made an Expedition against the Edomites and Amalekites ... The Kingdom of Samaria. The Divided Kingdom. Resources Who was Athaliah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhy is Gideon referred to as Jerubbaal? | GotQuestions.org Who was Elisha in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Joash: (Son of Ahaziah and King of Judah): Anointed King by the Priest, Jehoiada Joash: (Son of Ahaziah and King of Judah): Conspired Against and Slain Joash: (Son of Ahaziah and King of Judah): Diseases of Joash: (Son of Ahaziah and King of Judah): Prophecy Against Joash: (Son of Ahaziah and King of Judah): Put Jehoiada's Son to Death Joash: (Son of Ahaziah and King of Judah): Repaired the Temple Joash: (Son of Ahaziah and King of Judah): Righteousness of, Under Influence of Jehoiada Joash: (Son of Ahaziah and King of Judah): Wickedness of, After Jehoiada's Death Joash: Keeper of the Stores of Oil Joash: One of David's officers Joash: Procured Peace from Hazael, King of Syria, by Gift of Dedicated Treasures from the Temple Joash: Saved from his Grandmother by Jehosheba, his Aunt, and Hidden for Six Years Joash: Son of Ahab, King of Israel Related Terms |
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