2 Kings 12:17

At that time Hazael king of Aram marched up and fought against Gath and captured it. Then he decided to attack Jerusalem.

Study Bible

At that time
This phrase situates the events within a specific historical context. The period referred to is during the reign of Jehoash (Joash) of Judah, a time marked by both internal reforms and external threats. Historically, this was a tumultuous period for the kingdoms of Israel and Judah, with frequent conflicts and shifting alliances. The phrase underscores the immediacy and urgency of the events that follow, highlighting the constant threat faced by the kingdom of Judah.

Hazael king of Aram
Hazael was a significant figure in the history of the Near East, known for his aggressive military campaigns. The Arameans, under Hazael's leadership, were a formidable power. Hazael's rise to power is noted in 2 Kings 8:13, where he is anointed by the prophet Elisha, fulfilling God's judgment against the house of Ahab. His mention here emphasizes the fulfillment of prophetic words and the sovereignty of God over the nations.

went up and fought against Gath
Gath was one of the five major Philistine cities, often mentioned in the context of Israel's enemies. The phrase "went up" indicates a military campaign, as Gath was located in the lowlands, requiring an ascent from Aram. The capture of Gath by Hazael signifies a strategic victory, as controlling Gath would have provided a foothold for further incursions into Judah and Israel. This highlights the persistent threat of surrounding nations and the vulnerability of the Israelite territories.

and captured it
The capture of Gath demonstrates Hazael's military prowess and the weakening state of the Philistine cities. This event is a reminder of the cyclical nature of conquest and loss in the ancient Near East, where cities frequently changed hands. It also serves as a backdrop to the subsequent threat to Jerusalem, illustrating the expanding influence of Aram under Hazael.

Then Hazael turned to attack Jerusalem
Jerusalem, the capital of Judah, was the spiritual and political center of the kingdom. Hazael's decision to turn his attention to Jerusalem indicates a direct threat to the heart of Judah. This phrase underscores the gravity of the situation faced by Jehoash and his people. Historically, Jerusalem was a well-fortified city, but the mention of an impending attack would have been a cause for alarm, prompting reliance on divine intervention and strategic diplomacy, as seen in the subsequent verses.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hazael
King of Aram (Syria), known for his military campaigns against Israel and Judah. His actions are often seen as instruments of God's judgment against the Israelites for their disobedience.

2. Gath
A Philistine city, one of the five major Philistine cities, known for its strategic importance. Its capture by Hazael signifies a shift in power and threat to the surrounding regions, including Judah.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, central to Jewish worship and governance. Hazael's threat to Jerusalem underscores the vulnerability of Judah during this period.

4. Jehoash (Joash)
King of Judah during this time, known for his initial faithfulness to God under the guidance of Jehoiada the priest, but later faltering in his commitment.

5. Aram (Syria)
A neighboring kingdom often in conflict with Israel and Judah. Its interactions with Israel and Judah are significant in the account of the Old Testament.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
Hazael's campaign against Judah serves as a reminder of God's control over nations and His use of them to accomplish His purposes, including judgment for disobedience.

The Importance of Faithfulness
The threat to Jerusalem highlights the consequences of turning away from God. It serves as a call to remain faithful and obedient to God's commands.

The Role of Leadership
Jehoash's reign illustrates the impact of leadership on a nation's spiritual health. Leaders are called to guide their people in righteousness and reliance on God.

Trust in God's Protection
Despite external threats, believers are encouraged to trust in God's protection and provision, knowing that He is ultimately in control.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the capture of Gath by Hazael reflect the broader geopolitical dynamics of the time, and what can we learn about God's sovereignty over nations?

2. In what ways does the threat to Jerusalem serve as a warning to us about the consequences of turning away from God?

3. How does Jehoash's leadership impact Judah's spiritual state, and what lessons can we draw about the importance of godly leadership today?

4. How can we apply the principle of trusting in God's protection in our own lives when facing external threats or challenges?

5. What connections can we draw between the events in 2 Kings 12:17 and other instances in Scripture where God uses foreign nations to accomplish His purposes? How does this shape our understanding of God's sovereignty?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 8:12-15
Provides background on Hazael's rise to power and his role as an adversary to Israel, fulfilling Elisha's prophecy about the harm he would bring.

2 Chronicles 24:23-24
Offers a parallel account of Hazael's campaign against Judah, highlighting the consequences of Judah's unfaithfulness to God.

Isaiah 7:1-9
Discusses the threat of Aram and Israel against Judah, emphasizing God's sovereignty and the importance of faith in Him.