Jozachar, also known as Zabad, is a biblical figure mentioned in the context of the royal history of the Kingdom of Judah. His account is primarily found in the Old Testament, specifically in the narrative concerning the assassination of King Joash of Judah.

Biblical References:

1. 2 Kings 12:20-21 : "His servants conspired against him and killed Joash at the house of Millo, on the road that goes down to Silla. His servants Jozabad son of Shimeath and Jehozabad son of Shomer struck him down, and he died. And they buried him with his fathers in the City of David, and his son Amaziah reigned in his place."

2. 2 Chronicles 24:25-26 : "When the Arameans withdrew, they left Joash severely wounded. His servants conspired against him because of the blood of the sons of Jehoiada the priest, and they killed him on his bed. So he died and was buried in the City of David, but not in the tombs of the kings. Those who conspired against Joash were Zabad son of Shimeath the Ammonitess and Jehozabad son of Shimrith the Moabitess."

Historical Context:

Jozachar, referred to as Zabad in the Chronicles account, was one of the two servants who conspired to assassinate King Joash. The assassination took place after Joash had turned away from the faithful guidance of Jehoiada the priest and had committed acts that led to the shedding of innocent blood, including the murder of Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada. This act of betrayal against the house of Jehoiada, who had been instrumental in preserving Joash's life and establishing him as king, set the stage for divine retribution.

Name and Identity:

The name Jozachar means "Yahweh remembers," while Zabad means "gift" or "endowment." The dual naming in the biblical texts may reflect different traditions or sources within the historical records of Israel and Judah. The Chronicles account provides additional detail by identifying Jozachar/Zabad's mother as Shimeath, an Ammonitess, highlighting the diverse ethnic backgrounds present within the royal court.

Theological Significance:

The assassination of Joash by Jozachar and Jehozabad is seen as a fulfillment of divine justice. Joash's departure from the ways of the Lord and his subsequent actions against the priestly line of Jehoiada brought about his downfall. This narrative underscores the biblical theme of divine retribution and the importance of faithfulness to God's covenant. The involvement of Jozachar, whose name signifies remembrance by God, serves as a reminder of the divine oversight in the affairs of nations and leaders.

Cultural and Historical Insights:

The account of Jozachar/Zabad provides insight into the political and social dynamics of the Judahite monarchy. The presence of foreign influences within the court, as indicated by the ethnic origins of the conspirators' mothers, reflects the complex interactions between Israel and its neighboring nations. This period in Judah's history was marked by internal strife and external threats, contributing to the instability that ultimately led to Joash's assassination.

Jozachar's role in the biblical narrative, though brief, is a poignant example of how individual actions can have significant consequences in the unfolding of God's plan for His people.2 Chronicles 24:26
And these are they that conspired against him; Zabad the son of Shimeath an Ammonitess, and Jehozabad the son of Shimrith a Moabitess.
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