2 Chronicles 22:11

But Jehoshabeath daughter of King Jehoram took Joash son of Ahaziah and stole him away from among the sons of the king who were being murdered, and she put him and his nurse in a bedroom. Because Jehoshabeath, the daughter of King Jehoram and the wife of Jehoiada the priest, was Ahaziah's sister, she hid Joash from Athaliah so that she could not kill him.

Study Bible

But Jehoshabeath the daughter of King Jehoram
Jehoshabeath, also known as Jehosheba in other biblical accounts, is a pivotal figure in this narrative. Her name means "Yahweh is an oath," reflecting her commitment to God's covenant. As the daughter of King Jehoram, she was of royal lineage, which gave her access and influence within the palace. Her actions demonstrate courage and faithfulness, as she risked her life to preserve the Davidic line, which was crucial for the fulfillment of God's promises regarding the Messiah.

took Joash the son of Ahaziah
Joash, whose name means "Yahweh has given," was a young child at the time of this event. As the son of Ahaziah, he was the rightful heir to the throne of Judah. The preservation of Joash was essential for maintaining the Davidic lineage, which was under threat from Athaliah's murderous intent. This act of taking Joash was not merely a rescue but a divine intervention to ensure the continuation of God's covenant with David.

and stole him away from among the sons of the king who were being put to death
The phrase "stole him away" indicates a secretive and urgent action. The context here is Athaliah's attempt to annihilate the royal family to secure her power. The Hebrew root for "stole" (ganab) implies stealth and cunning, highlighting Jehoshabeath's bravery and wisdom. This act of deliverance parallels other biblical narratives where God preserves a remnant against overwhelming odds.

and she put him and his nurse in a bedroom
The "bedroom" (Hebrew: cheder) was likely a private and secure chamber within the palace, symbolizing a place of refuge and protection. The inclusion of Joash's nurse underscores the care and provision for the child's needs during this perilous time. This setting of concealment is reminiscent of other biblical accounts where God provides sanctuary for His chosen ones.

So Jehoshabeath, the daughter of King Jehoram and the wife of Jehoiada the priest
Jehoshabeath's dual identity as both a royal daughter and the wife of Jehoiada the priest is significant. Her marriage to Jehoiada, a godly and influential priest, suggests a partnership in faith and purpose. Together, they represent the unity of royal and priestly lines working to fulfill God's plan. This alliance was instrumental in the eventual restoration of true worship in Judah.

hid him from Athaliah so that she could not kill him
The act of hiding Joash from Athaliah, whose name means "Yahweh has constrained," signifies divine protection against evil. Athaliah's intent to kill was thwarted by God's providence through Jehoshabeath's courageous actions. This preservation of Joash ensured the survival of the Davidic line, which was critical for the coming of the Messiah, fulfilling God's redemptive plan for humanity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehosheba
Daughter of King Jehoram, sister of King Ahaziah, and wife of Jehoiada the priest. She played a crucial role in preserving the Davidic line by saving Joash.

2. Joash
The son of King Ahaziah, who was hidden by Jehosheba to protect him from being killed by Athaliah. He later became king and continued the Davidic lineage.

3. Athaliah
The mother of Ahaziah, who sought to destroy the royal family of Judah to secure her power. Her actions were contrary to God's covenant with David.

4. Jehoiada the Priest
Husband of Jehosheba, who later played a significant role in restoring Joash to the throne and leading a revival in Judah.

5. The Bedroom
The place where Joash was hidden, symbolizing a place of refuge and divine protection amidst chaos and danger.

Teaching Points

Courage in the Face of Evil
Jehosheba's bravery in saving Joash demonstrates the importance of standing up for righteousness, even when it involves personal risk.

God's Sovereignty and Protection
The preservation of Joash illustrates God's sovereign plan and protection over His covenant promises, ensuring the continuation of the Davidic line.

The Role of Women in God's Plan
Jehosheba's actions remind us of the significant roles women play in God's redemptive history, often acting with wisdom and courage.

Faithfulness in Small Acts
The seemingly small act of hiding Joash had monumental implications for the future of Judah and the coming of the Messiah, showing that God uses our faithful actions for His greater purposes.

The Importance of Godly Alliances
Jehosheba's marriage to Jehoiada the priest highlights the strength found in godly partnerships, which can lead to spiritual renewal and restoration.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehosheba's act of courage inspire you to stand for righteousness in your own life?

2. In what ways can you see God's protection and sovereignty at work in your personal circumstances, similar to how Joash was preserved?

3. Reflect on a time when a seemingly small act of faithfulness had a significant impact. How does this encourage you to remain faithful in the "small" things?

4. How can the account of Jehosheba and Joash encourage you to form and maintain godly alliances in your life?

5. Considering the role of women like Jehosheba in the Bible, how can you encourage and support the women in your community to fulfill their God-given roles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 11
This parallel account provides additional details about Jehosheba's courageous act and the subsequent events leading to Joash's reign.

Psalm 91
This psalm speaks of God's protection and refuge, which can be seen in how Joash was hidden and preserved from Athaliah's wrath.

Matthew 1:1-16
The genealogy of Jesus Christ, which includes Joash, highlighting the importance of preserving the Davidic line for the fulfillment of God's promise.