Introduction:
Jehoash, also known as Joash, was the twelfth king of the northern kingdom of Israel. His reign is chronicled in the biblical books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles. Jehoash was the son of Jehoahaz and the grandson of Jehu, continuing the dynasty that Jehu established. His reign is marked by military conflict, religious apostasy, and a notable interaction with the prophet Elisha.

Biblical Account:
Jehoash's reign is primarily documented in 2 Kings 13:10-25. He ascended to the throne in the thirty-seventh year of Joash, king of Judah, and reigned for sixteen years in Samaria. The biblical narrative highlights that Jehoash "did evil in the sight of the LORD" (2 Kings 13:11), continuing the idolatrous practices initiated by Jeroboam I, which included the worship of golden calves.

Military Conflicts:
During Jehoash's reign, Israel was embroiled in ongoing conflicts with Aram (Syria). The Arameans, under King Hazael and later his son Ben-Hadad, had significantly oppressed Israel. However, Jehoash experienced military success against Aram, as prophesied by Elisha. In a symbolic act, Elisha instructed Jehoash to strike the ground with arrows, which he did three times. Elisha declared that Jehoash would defeat Aram three times, which came to pass as Jehoash recaptured cities that had been taken by the Arameans (2 Kings 13:18-19, 25).

Interaction with Elisha:
One of the most notable events during Jehoash's reign was his visit to the prophet Elisha on the latter's deathbed. Jehoash wept over Elisha, calling him "My father, my father, the chariots and horsemen of Israel!" (2 Kings 13:14). This encounter underscores the respect and reliance that even a wayward king had for the prophet of God. Elisha's final prophecy to Jehoash was a testament to God's continued mercy and intervention on behalf of Israel despite the nation's unfaithfulness.

Conflict with Judah:
Jehoash's reign also included conflict with the southern kingdom of Judah. He engaged in battle with Amaziah, king of Judah, at Beth-shemesh. Jehoash defeated Amaziah, captured him, and subsequently entered Jerusalem. He broke down a section of the wall of Jerusalem and took treasures from the temple and the royal palace (2 Kings 14:11-14). This event further illustrates the political and military tensions between the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah.

Religious Context:
Despite his military achievements, Jehoash's reign was characterized by spiritual decline. The persistent idolatry and failure to turn the nation back to the worship of Yahweh are noted as significant shortcomings. The biblical narrative does not record any significant religious reforms or efforts to eradicate the idolatrous practices that plagued Israel.

Death and Succession:
Jehoash died and was buried in Samaria with the kings of Israel. He was succeeded by his son Jeroboam II, who continued the dynasty and reigned for an extended period, bringing a measure of prosperity and expansion to Israel (2 Kings 14:16, 23).

Legacy:
Jehoash's reign is a complex tapestry of military prowess and spiritual failure. His interactions with Elisha highlight the enduring presence of God's prophetic voice in Israel, even amidst widespread apostasy. The biblical account of Jehoash serves as a reminder of the consequences of idolatry and the importance of faithfulness to God.