Topical Bible: Rulers: Wicked: Jehoiakim, in Walking in the Ways of his Forefathers

◄ Rulers: Wicked: Jehoiakim, in Walking in the Ways of his Forefathers ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Jehoiakim, originally named Eliakim, was the son of Josiah and became king of Judah after the brief reign of his brother Jehoahaz. His reign is marked by a return to the idolatrous and unjust practices that characterized the rule of his forefathers, particularly those kings who did not follow the ways of the Lord. Jehoiakim's reign is detailed in the books of 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles, and the prophetic writings of Jeremiah.

Background and Ascension to the Throne

Jehoiakim was appointed king by Pharaoh Necho of Egypt, who had deposed his brother Jehoahaz. Pharaoh Necho changed his name from Eliakim to Jehoiakim, signifying his subservience to Egypt (2 Kings 23:34). Jehoiakim reigned for eleven years, from approximately 609 to 598 BC, during a tumultuous period marked by the shifting powers of Egypt and Babylon.

Religious and Moral Failings

Jehoiakim's reign is characterized by a departure from the reforms of his father, Josiah, who had sought to restore true worship in Judah. Instead, Jehoiakim is noted for his wickedness and idolatry, following in the footsteps of earlier kings who led the nation away from God. The prophet Jeremiah provides a scathing critique of Jehoiakim's reign, highlighting his oppressive policies and disregard for justice. Jeremiah 22:13-17 condemns Jehoiakim for building his palace with unrighteousness and injustice, exploiting his laborers without pay, and shedding innocent blood.

Opposition to Prophetic Voices

Jehoiakim's hostility towards the prophetic voices of his time further underscores his wickedness. He is infamous for his reaction to the scroll of Jeremiah's prophecies. In Jeremiah 36, Jehoiakim is depicted as cutting the scroll with a knife and burning it in the fire, an act of blatant defiance against God's word (Jeremiah 36:23). This act symbolizes his rejection of divine warnings and his determination to pursue his own path, irrespective of the consequences.

Political Alliances and Downfall

Jehoiakim's political maneuvers were marked by shifting allegiances between Egypt and Babylon. Initially, he was a vassal of Egypt, but after the Battle of Carchemish in 605 BC, he became a vassal of Babylon under Nebuchadnezzar. However, Jehoiakim later rebelled against Babylonian control, a decision that led to his downfall. According to 2 Kings 24:1-2 , the Lord sent raiders against Judah as a consequence of Jehoiakim's rebellion, fulfilling the prophetic warnings of judgment.

Legacy and Impact

Jehoiakim's reign is a stark reminder of the consequences of forsaking the covenant with God and embracing the sinful practices of previous generations. His actions set the stage for the eventual Babylonian exile, as his son Jehoiachin and the people of Judah were taken captive shortly after his death. Jehoiakim's legacy is one of failure to heed divine warnings and a return to the idolatry and injustice that had plagued Judah in the past. His life serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of walking in the ways of wicked forefathers, rather than seeking to follow the righteous path set by godly predecessors like Josiah.