Topical Bible: Kindness: Jehoshabeath to Joash

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In the narrative of the kings of Judah, the account of Jehoshabeath (also known as Jehosheba) and Joash is a profound example of kindness and divine providence. Jehoshabeath, the daughter of King Jehoram and sister of King Ahaziah, plays a pivotal role in preserving the Davidic line through an act of courageous kindness.

Jehoshabeath's Act of Kindness

The account is found in 2 Chronicles 22:10-12 and 2 Kings 11:1-3. After the death of King Ahaziah, Athaliah, his mother, sought to destroy all the royal heirs of the house of Judah to secure her own power. In this dark moment, Jehoshabeath, the wife of Jehoiada the priest, took a bold step to save her nephew Joash, the infant son of Ahaziah. The Berean Standard Bible recounts:

"But Jehoshabeath, the daughter of King Jehoram, took Joash the son of Ahaziah and stole him away from among the king’s sons who were being put to death, and she put him and his nurse in a bedroom. So Jehoshabeath, the daughter of King Jehoram and wife of Jehoiada the priest, hid him from Athaliah, so that she did not kill him." (2 Chronicles 22:11)

Jehoshabeath's act of kindness was not merely a familial duty but a courageous stand against the evil intentions of Athaliah. By hiding Joash in the temple of the LORD for six years, she ensured the survival of the Davidic line, which was crucial for the fulfillment of God's covenant with David.

The Preservation of Joash

During the six years that Joash was hidden, Jehoshabeath and her husband Jehoiada provided him with protection and guidance. This period of concealment was marked by careful planning and faithfulness to God's promises. Jehoiada, as a priest, played a significant role in nurturing Joash in the ways of the LORD, preparing him for his future role as king.

In the seventh year, Jehoiada orchestrated a coup to overthrow Athaliah and restore the rightful heir to the throne. The Berean Standard Bible describes the moment of Joash's coronation:

"Then Jehoiada brought out the king’s son, put the crown on him, presented him with the Testimony, and proclaimed him king. They anointed him and shouted, 'Long live the king!'" (2 Kings 11:12)

The Impact of Kindness

Jehoshabeath's kindness had far-reaching implications. Her actions not only saved Joash's life but also preserved the lineage through which the Messiah, Jesus Christ, would eventually come. Her bravery and compassion exemplify the biblical principle that acts of kindness, even in the face of great danger, can fulfill God's sovereign purposes.

The account of Jehoshabeath and Joash serves as a reminder of the power of kindness to change the course of history. It highlights the importance of faithfulness to God's promises and the courage to act righteously, even when it involves personal risk. Through Jehoshabeath's kindness, God's covenant with David was upheld, and the hope of redemption through the Messiah was kept alive.

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2 Chronicles 22:11
But Jehoshabeath, the daughter of the king, took Joash the son of Ahaziah, and stole him from among the king's sons that were slain, and put him and his nurse in a bedchamber. So Jehoshabeath, the daughter of king Jehoram, the wife of Jehoiada the priest, (for she was the sister of Ahaziah,) hid him from Athaliah, so that she slew him not.
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