2 Chronicles 21:2

Jehoram's brothers, the sons of Jehoshaphat, were Azariah, Jehiel, Zechariah, Azariah, Michael, and Shephatiah; these were all sons of Jehoshaphat king of Israel.

Study Bible

He had brothers
This phrase introduces the familial context of Jehoram, the central figure in this chapter. The mention of brothers highlights the typical royal family structure in ancient Judah, where multiple sons were common. In Hebrew culture, the presence of brothers often implied potential rivalry for the throne, as seen in other biblical narratives. The Hebrew word for "brothers" (אֲחִים, 'achim) can denote not only biological siblings but also close kinship, emphasizing the importance of family ties in the Davidic lineage.

the sons of Jehoshaphat
Jehoshaphat was a notable king of Judah, known for his piety and reforms. His legacy is significant in the biblical narrative, as he sought to align Judah more closely with the worship of Yahweh. The phrase underscores the royal lineage and the expectations placed upon his sons to continue his godly leadership. The Hebrew name "Jehoshaphat" (יְהוֹשָׁפָט) means "Yahweh has judged," reflecting the divine favor and justice associated with his reign.

Azariah, Jehiel, Zechariah, Azariahu, Michael, and Shephatiah
These names are not just identifiers but carry deep meanings and reflect the religious culture of the time. "Azariah" (עֲזַרְיָה) means "Yahweh has helped," indicating a reliance on divine assistance. "Jehiel" (יְחִיאֵל) means "God lives," a testament to the enduring faith in the living God. "Zechariah" (זְכַרְיָה) means "Yahweh remembers," suggesting a hope in God's faithfulness to His promises. "Azariahu" is a variant of Azariah, reinforcing the theme of divine help. "Michael" (מִיכָאֵל) means "Who is like God?" a rhetorical question affirming God's unmatched sovereignty. "Shephatiah" (שְׁפַטְיָה) means "Yahweh has judged," echoing the theme of divine justice. These names reflect the spiritual aspirations and beliefs of the royal family.

All these were the sons of Jehoshaphat king of Israel
This phrase reiterates the royal status of Jehoshaphat's sons, emphasizing their potential roles in the governance and spiritual leadership of the nation. The term "king of Israel" is used here in a broader sense, as Jehoshaphat was actually the king of Judah. This reflects the biblical perspective that sees Judah as the continuation of the united monarchy under David and Solomon. The Hebrew word for "king" (מֶלֶךְ, melech) signifies authority and responsibility, reminding readers of the divine mandate given to the Davidic line to lead the people in covenant faithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoshaphat
The father of Jehoram and his brothers, Jehoshaphat was a king of Judah known for his efforts to follow God and strengthen the kingdom spiritually and militarily.

2. Jehoram
The primary subject of the surrounding passage, Jehoram was the son of Jehoshaphat who became king and whose reign was marked by turning away from God.

3. Azariah, Jehiel, Zechariah, Azariahu, Michael, and Shephatiah
These are the brothers of Jehoram, sons of Jehoshaphat, who are mentioned in this verse. Their mention highlights the royal lineage and the potential for leadership within the family.

4. Kingdom of Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Jehoshaphat and his sons ruled. This context is crucial for understanding the political and spiritual dynamics of the time.

5. Israel
Although the verse refers to Jehoshaphat as king of Israel, it is important to note that this often refers to the united people of God, though Jehoshaphat was specifically king of Judah.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Godly Heritage
Jehoshaphat's legacy was one of faithfulness to God, providing a spiritual foundation for his sons. This highlights the importance of passing down a godly heritage to future generations.

The Consequences of Turning Away from God
Despite his father's faithfulness, Jehoram chose a different path, leading to negative consequences for himself and the kingdom. This serves as a warning about the dangers of forsaking God.

The Role of Family in Spiritual Leadership
The mention of Jehoram's brothers suggests the potential for shared leadership and support within a family. It underscores the importance of family unity and collective spiritual responsibility.

The Influence of Leadership on a Nation
The spiritual and moral direction of a leader can significantly impact a nation. Jehoshaphat's faithfulness brought blessings, while Jehoram's unfaithfulness brought turmoil.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehoshaphat's faithfulness to God contrast with Jehoram's actions, and what can we learn from this about the impact of our choices on future generations?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are passing down a godly heritage to our children and those we influence?

3. How does the account of Jehoram and his brothers illustrate the importance of family unity in spiritual matters?

4. What are some modern examples of how leadership can influence the spiritual and moral direction of a community or nation?

5. Reflecting on Jehoram's reign, what steps can we take to avoid turning away from God, even when faced with challenges or temptations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 22
Provides background on Jehoshaphat's reign, his alliance with Ahab, and his efforts to follow God, setting the stage for the events in 2 Chronicles 21.

2 Chronicles 20
Describes Jehoshaphat's faith and leadership, including his prayer and victory over Moab and Ammon, illustrating the spiritual heritage Jehoram and his brothers inherited.

2 Chronicles 21:4-20
Details Jehoram's reign, his turning away from God, and the consequences, contrasting with the faithfulness of his father Jehoshaphat.