In the historical narrative of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, the reign of Pekahiah, son of Menahem, is marked by political instability and treachery. Pekahiah ascended to the throne of Israel in Samaria and reigned for two years. His rule is recorded in the biblical account found in 2 Kings 15:23-26.

Pekahiah's reign is characterized by the continuation of the idolatrous practices that had plagued Israel. The biblical text notes that he "did evil in the sight of the LORD" (2 Kings 15:24), following the sins of Jeroboam son of Nebat, who led Israel into sin. This spiritual and moral decline set the stage for internal strife and betrayal.

The conspiracy against Pekahiah was led by one of his own military officers, Pekah son of Remaliah. Pekah, described as a captain in the king's army, plotted against Pekahiah and ultimately assassinated him. The account in 2 Kings 15:25 states, "Then Pekah son of Remaliah, one of his chief officers, conspired against him. Taking fifty men of Gilead with him, he assassinated Pekahiah, along with Argob and Arieh, in the citadel of the king’s palace at Samaria. So Pekah killed him and reigned in his place."

This act of treachery highlights the pervasive wickedness and political turmoil within the kingdom. The assassination of Pekahiah by Pekah is a stark example of the violent power struggles that characterized the leadership of Israel during this period. The instability was not only a result of political ambition but also a reflection of the nation's spiritual apostasy.

Pekah's usurpation of the throne did not lead to a return to righteousness. Instead, he continued in the sinful ways of his predecessors, further entrenching the nation in idolatry and rebellion against God. The cycle of wickedness among the rulers of Israel serves as a somber reminder of the consequences of turning away from the covenantal relationship with the LORD.

The assassination of Pekahiah and the rise of Pekah underscore the broader theme of divine judgment upon Israel for its persistent disobedience. The narrative of these events is a testament to the moral and spiritual decline that ultimately led to the downfall of the Northern Kingdom.2 Kings 15:25
But Pekah the son of Remaliah, a captain of his, conspired against him, and smote him in Samaria, in the palace of the king's house, with Argob and Arieh, and with him fifty men of the Gileadites: and he killed him, and reigned in his room.
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