Topical Bible: Temple: Solomon's by Jehoash, King of Judah, from Hazael

◄ Temple: Solomon's by Jehoash, King of Judah, from Hazael ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The Temple of Solomon, a central place of worship and the dwelling place of the LORD's presence, holds a significant place in the history of Israel. Built by King Solomon, the Temple was a symbol of the covenant between God and His people. However, throughout its history, the Temple faced numerous threats and desecrations, one of which involved Jehoash, King of Judah, and Hazael, King of Aram.

Historical Context

Jehoash (also known as Joash) reigned as king of Judah from approximately 835 to 796 BC. His reign is noted for the restoration of the Temple, which had fallen into disrepair during the reigns of his predecessors. Jehoash's commitment to the Temple is recorded in 2 Kings 12, where he initiated repairs and maintenance to restore its former glory.

During Jehoash's reign, Hazael, the king of Aram, posed a significant threat to Judah. Hazael was a formidable adversary, having already conquered several territories and exerting pressure on the kingdom of Judah. The biblical narrative in 2 Kings 12:17-18 describes how Hazael set his sights on Jerusalem: "At that time Hazael king of Aram went up and fought against Gath and captured it. Then he turned to attack Jerusalem."

Jehoash's Response

Faced with the imminent threat of Hazael's invasion, Jehoash took decisive action to protect Jerusalem and the Temple. In a strategic move to avert the destruction of the city and its sacred site, Jehoash gathered all the sacred objects dedicated by his predecessors—Jehoshaphat, Jehoram, and Ahaziah, kings of Judah—as well as his own offerings. These included gold and other valuable items stored in the treasuries of the Temple and the royal palace.

2 Kings 12:18 records Jehoash's actions: "So Jehoash king of Judah took all the sacred objects that his fathers Jehoshaphat, Jehoram, and Ahaziah, the kings of Judah, had dedicated, along with his own sacred objects and all the gold found in the treasuries of the house of the LORD and of the royal palace. And he sent them to Hazael king of Aram, who then withdrew from Jerusalem."

Theological Implications

Jehoash's decision to use the Temple's treasures as a means of appeasement reflects the complex interplay between faith, politics, and survival. While his actions preserved the physical structure of the Temple and the city of Jerusalem, they also highlight the vulnerability of the kingdom when faced with external threats. The use of sacred objects for political purposes raises questions about the sanctity of the Temple and the priorities of the king.

From a theological perspective, this episode underscores the importance of reliance on God rather than material wealth or political maneuvering. The Temple, as the dwelling place of God's presence, was meant to be a place of worship and a testament to the covenant relationship between God and His people. Jehoash's actions, while pragmatic, serve as a reminder of the need for spiritual fidelity and trust in divine protection.

Legacy

The account of Jehoash and Hazael is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by the kings of Judah in maintaining the sanctity and security of the Temple. Despite the temporary reprieve achieved through Jehoash's actions, the Temple would continue to face threats and eventual destruction, leading to a deeper reflection on the nature of true worship and the enduring promises of God.

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2 Kings 12:18
And Jehoash king of Judah took all the hallowed things that Jehoshaphat, and Jehoram, and Ahaziah, his fathers, kings of Judah, had dedicated, and his own hallowed things, and all the gold that was found in the treasures of the house of the LORD, and in the king's house, and sent it to Hazael king of Syria: and he went away from Jerusalem.
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