Jehoahaz, son of Jehu, was a king of Israel who reigned in Samaria for seventeen years. His reign is noted for its continuation of the idolatrous practices initiated by Jeroboam, the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel. Jehoahaz's rule is chronicled in the biblical narrative found in 2 Kings 13:1-9.

Background and Reign

Jehoahaz ascended to the throne of Israel during the twenty-third year of Joash, king of Judah. His reign is marked by a period of spiritual decline and political instability. The biblical account in 2 Kings 13:2 states, "He did evil in the sight of the LORD and followed the sins of Jeroboam son of Nebat, which he had caused Israel to commit, and he did not turn away from them" . This passage highlights Jehoahaz's adherence to the idolatrous practices established by Jeroboam, which included the worship of golden calves at Bethel and Dan, a direct violation of the covenantal commandments given to Israel.

Consequences of Sin

The spiritual apostasy under Jehoahaz's leadership had dire consequences for the nation of Israel. The LORD's anger was kindled against Israel, and as a result, He allowed Hazael, king of Aram, and his son Ben-Hadad to oppress Israel throughout Jehoahaz's reign. This oppression is described in 2 Kings 13:3: "So the anger of the LORD burned against Israel, and for a long time He gave them into the hand of Hazael king of Aram and his son Ben-hadad" . The Aramean oppression severely weakened Israel, reducing its military capabilities and leaving the nation vulnerable to external threats.

Jehoahaz's Plea and Partial Deliverance

Despite his wickedness, Jehoahaz sought the LORD's favor during his reign. In a moment of desperation, he pleaded with the LORD for deliverance from the Aramean oppression. The LORD, in His mercy, listened to Jehoahaz's plea and provided a deliverer for Israel, allowing them to escape from the hand of the Arameans. This act of divine intervention is recorded in 2 Kings 13:4-5: "Then Jehoahaz sought the favor of the LORD, and the LORD listened to him, for He saw the oppression of Israel, how the king of Aram had oppressed them. So the LORD gave Israel a deliverer, and they escaped from the hand of the Arameans. Then the Israelites dwelt in their own homes as they had before" .

Continued Idolatry and Legacy

Despite the temporary relief from oppression, Jehoahaz did not lead Israel back to true worship of the LORD. The high places remained, and the people continued in the sins of Jeroboam. The biblical narrative in 2 Kings 13:6 notes, "Nevertheless, they did not turn away from the sins of the house of Jeroboam, who had caused Israel to sin, but they continued in them. The Asherah pole even remained standing in Samaria" . Jehoahaz's failure to eradicate idolatry left a lasting impact on Israel, perpetuating a cycle of sin and judgment.

Jehoahaz's reign concluded with his death, and he was succeeded by his son Jehoash. His legacy is one of spiritual failure and missed opportunities for reform, as he continued in the idolatrous practices that led Israel away from the LORD. His account serves as a cautionary tale of the consequences of forsaking the covenant with God and the importance of faithful leadership in guiding a nation toward righteousness.2 Kings 13:1,2
In the three and twentieth year of Joash the son of Ahaziah king of Judah Jehoahaz the son of Jehu began to reign over Israel in Samaria, and reigned seventeen years.
Nave's Topical Index

The Twelve Minor Prophets.
... and punishment of these king's children"Jehoahaz and Jehoiakim ... Zerubbabel from all
the assaults of the wicked. ... to him extends to all faithful rulers whom God ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xxiii the twelve minor.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... thanks to the good government of its rulers and the ... sea, and the stumbling-blocks
with the wicked; and I ... them that are turned back from following Jahveh; and ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

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