Topical Bible: Michael: Son of Jehoshaphat: Killed by his Brother, Jehoram

◄ Michael: Son of Jehoshaphat: Killed by his Brother, Jehoram ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Michael, a lesser-known figure in the biblical narrative, was one of the sons of Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah. Jehoshaphat was a notable king who sought to follow the ways of the Lord, aligning himself with the righteous practices of his ancestor David. His reign is marked by efforts to strengthen the spiritual and political state of Judah, as well as forming alliances with the northern kingdom of Israel.

Family Background and Historical Context

Jehoshaphat, the father of Michael, was the son of Asa and reigned over Judah from approximately 873 to 849 BC. His reign is characterized by religious reforms and a commitment to the worship of Yahweh. Jehoshaphat's efforts to rid the land of idolatry and his establishment of a judicial system based on the Law of God are well-documented in the biblical accounts.

Michael was one of Jehoshaphat's sons, and his life is briefly mentioned in the context of the transition of power following Jehoshaphat's death. Jehoshaphat had several sons, including Jehoram, who was the firstborn and heir to the throne. The biblical account in 2 Chronicles 21:2-4 provides insight into the fate of Michael and his brothers:

"Jehoshaphat had sons: Azariah, Jehiel, Zechariah, Azariahu, Michael, and Shephatiah. All these were sons of Jehoshaphat king of Israel. Their father had given them many gifts of silver and gold and articles of value, along with fortified cities in Judah, but he gave the kingdom to Jehoram because he was the firstborn. When Jehoram had established himself over his father’s kingdom, he strengthened his position by putting to the sword all his brothers along with some of the princes of Israel." (2 Chronicles 21:2-4)

Tragic Demise

The account of Michael's death is a somber reminder of the often brutal and tumultuous nature of royal successions in the ancient Near East. Jehoram, upon ascending to the throne, sought to secure his rule by eliminating potential rivals. This included the execution of his own brothers, among whom was Michael. This act of fratricide was not only a political maneuver but also a grave sin, reflecting Jehoram's departure from the godly example set by his father, Jehoshaphat.

Jehoram's actions were in stark contrast to the righteous path his father had pursued. The Bible records that Jehoram "walked in the way of the kings of Israel, as the house of Ahab had done, for Ahab’s daughter was his wife. And he did evil in the sight of the LORD." (2 Chronicles 21:6). This alignment with the idolatrous practices of Ahab's house further illustrates the spiritual decline during Jehoram's reign.

Legacy and Theological Reflection

The brief mention of Michael and his untimely death serves as a poignant illustration of the consequences of sin and the departure from God's commandments. The fratricide committed by Jehoram stands as a stark warning against the destructive nature of power unchecked by righteousness and the fear of the Lord.

Michael's account, though short and tragic, is a part of the larger narrative of the kings of Judah, highlighting the importance of faithfulness to God and the dire consequences of turning away from His ways. The account of Michael and his brothers underscores the biblical theme of the struggle between righteousness and wickedness, a theme that resonates throughout the Scriptures.

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2 Chronicles 21:2-4
And he had brothers the sons of Jehoshaphat, Azariah, and Jehiel, and Zechariah, and Azariah, and Michael, and Shephatiah: all these were the sons of Jehoshaphat king of Israel.
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