Topical Bible: Rulers: Wicked: Jehoahaz, Who Followed in the Ways of his Forefathers

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Jehoahaz, son of Jehu, was a king of Israel who reigned in Samaria for seventeen years. His reign is chronicled in the biblical narrative found in 2 Kings 13:1-9. Jehoahaz ascended to the throne during a tumultuous period in Israel's history, marked by political instability and spiritual decline. His rule is characterized by a continuation of the idolatrous practices established by his predecessors, which ultimately led to divine judgment upon the nation.

Idolatry and Apostasy

Jehoahaz is noted for perpetuating the sins of Jeroboam, the son of Nebat, who led Israel into idolatry by establishing golden calves at Bethel and Dan (1 Kings 12:28-30). 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 persistent idolatry was a direct violation of the covenantal commandments given to Israel, which demanded exclusive worship of Yahweh.

Divine Judgment and Oppression

As a consequence of Jehoahaz's unfaithfulness, the LORD's anger was kindled against Israel, and He allowed them to fall into the hands of Hazael, king of Aram, and his son Ben-hadad. The Arameans oppressed Israel throughout Jehoahaz's reign, as described in 2 Kings 13:3: "So the anger of the LORD burned against Israel, and He delivered them continually into the hands of Hazael king of Aram and his son Ben-hadad."

A Moment of Repentance

Despite his wickedness, Jehoahaz sought the LORD's favor during his reign. In a moment of desperation, he pleaded with the LORD, and God, in His mercy, listened to his plea. 2 Kings 13:4-5 records, "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 this temporary relief, Jehoahaz did not lead Israel back to true worship. The high places were not removed, and the people continued to engage in idolatrous practices. 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 reign is a sobering reminder of the consequences of forsaking the LORD and following in the sinful ways of one's forefathers. His failure to lead Israel in righteousness resulted in continued spiritual and political decline, setting the stage for further judgment upon the nation. His account serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of idolatry and the importance of faithful leadership in accordance with God's commandments.

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2 Kings 23:32
And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, according to all that his fathers had done.
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