Topical Bible: Prophecy: Miscellaneous, Fulfilled: The Striking of Syria by Joash

◄ Prophecy: Miscellaneous, Fulfilled: The Striking of Syria by Joash ►

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The prophecy concerning the striking of Syria by Joash is a significant event recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in the books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles. This prophecy and its fulfillment highlight the sovereignty of God in the affairs of nations and His ability to bring about His purposes through His chosen instruments.

Context and Prophecy

The prophecy is found in 2 Kings 13:14-19. During the reign of Joash (also known as Jehoash), king of Israel, the prophet Elisha was on his deathbed. Joash visited Elisha, expressing concern over the future of Israel, particularly in light of the ongoing threat from the Arameans (Syrians). Elisha instructed Joash to perform a symbolic act that would serve as a prophetic sign of victory over Syria.

Elisha told Joash to take a bow and arrows. As Joash did so, Elisha placed his hands on the king's hands, symbolizing divine empowerment. Elisha then instructed Joash to open the east window and shoot an arrow. As Joash complied, Elisha declared, "The LORD’s arrow of victory, the arrow of victory over Aram! You will completely destroy the Arameans at Aphek" (2 Kings 13:17).

Following this, Elisha instructed Joash to strike the ground with the remaining arrows. Joash struck the ground three times and stopped. Elisha was angry with Joash for not striking the ground more times, saying, "You should have struck the ground five or six times; then you would have struck down Aram until you had put an end to it. But now you will strike down Aram only three times" (2 Kings 13:19).

Fulfillment of the Prophecy

The fulfillment of this prophecy is recorded in 2 Kings 13:24-25. After the death of Elisha, Joash went to war against Ben-Hadad, the king of Aram. As prophesied, Joash defeated the Arameans three times and recovered the cities of Israel that had been taken by Aram. The text states, "Then Jehoash son of Jehoahaz recaptured from Ben-hadad son of Hazael the cities that had been taken in battle from his father Jehoahaz. Three times Joash defeated him, and so he recovered the cities of Israel" (2 Kings 13:25).

Significance

This event underscores the importance of faith and obedience in the fulfillment of God's promises. Joash's partial obedience resulted in a limited victory, illustrating the principle that the extent of one's faith and action can influence the outcome of divine promises. The prophecy and its fulfillment also demonstrate God's continued involvement in the history of Israel, using His prophets to guide and direct His people.

The striking of Syria by Joash serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His word and His ability to bring about His purposes through human agents, even in the midst of political and military challenges.

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2 Kings 13:16-25
And he said to the king of Israel, Put your hand on the bow. And he put his hand on it: and Elisha put his hands on the king's hands.
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