2 Chronicles 24:25

And when the Arameans had withdrawn, they left Joash severely wounded. His own servants conspired against him for shedding the blood of the son of Jehoiada the priest, and they killed him on his bed. So he died and was buried in the City of David, but not in the tombs of the kings.

Study Bible

When the Arameans withdrew
The Arameans, also known as the Syrians, were a significant power in the ancient Near East. Their withdrawal signifies a temporary reprieve for Judah, but it also marks a turning point in Joash's reign. Historically, the Arameans were known for their military prowess, and their campaigns often left devastation in their wake. The Hebrew root for "withdrew" suggests a retreat or departure, indicating that their mission was complete, leaving behind a weakened Judah and a wounded king.

they left Joash severely wounded
Joash, once a promising king who began his reign under the guidance of Jehoiada the priest, is now left in a vulnerable state. The phrase "severely wounded" underscores not only his physical condition but also his spiritual and moral decline. The Hebrew term used here can imply a deep, grievous injury, reflecting the consequences of his departure from faithfulness to God. This physical wounding is symbolic of his spiritual downfall, having turned away from the reforms he once championed.

His own servants conspired against him
The conspiracy of Joash's servants highlights the internal decay within his administration. The Hebrew word for "conspired" suggests a secretive, treacherous plot, often used in contexts of betrayal. This act of treachery is a direct result of Joash's actions against Jehoiada's family, showing how his moral failures led to distrust and rebellion within his own ranks. It serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of forsaking God's covenant and the importance of righteous leadership.

for shedding the blood of the son of Jehoiada the priest
This phrase refers to the murder of Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada, who was a prophet and priest. Joash's betrayal of Jehoiada's family, despite the priest's role in saving and guiding him, marks a significant moral and spiritual failure. The shedding of innocent blood is a grave sin in biblical terms, and it underscores the depth of Joash's apostasy. The historical context reveals the importance of the priesthood and prophetic voices in guiding the king and the nation, and Joash's actions represent a rejection of divine authority.

and they killed him on his bed
The assassination of Joash while he was on his bed indicates a cowardly and dishonorable act, reflecting the complete loss of respect and loyalty from his servants. The bed, often a place of rest and vulnerability, becomes the scene of his demise. This imagery serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of sin and the ultimate justice of God. The Hebrew context suggests a sudden and unexpected death, emphasizing the abrupt end to Joash's troubled reign.

So he died and was buried in the City of David
The City of David, Jerusalem, is a place of great historical and spiritual significance, being the capital established by King David. Joash's burial here indicates his royal status, yet it is overshadowed by the circumstances of his death. The Hebrew tradition of burial in the City of David was reserved for kings, but the narrative hints at a lack of honor in his burial, reflecting his tarnished legacy.

but not in the tombs of the kings
This final phrase highlights the ultimate disgrace for Joash. Being excluded from the royal tombs signifies a denial of honor and respect, a stark contrast to the honor given to his predecessors. The Hebrew culture placed great importance on burial practices, and this exclusion serves as a divine judgment on Joash's reign. It underscores the biblical principle that true honor comes from faithfulness to God, and those who forsake His ways will face consequences, both in life and in death.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joash
King of Judah who initially did what was right in the eyes of the Lord under the guidance of Jehoiada the priest but later turned away from God.

2. Arameans
A group of people from Aram (modern-day Syria) who attacked Judah and left Joash severely wounded.

3. Jehoiada the Priest
A godly priest who mentored Joash and helped him restore the temple; his son was murdered by Joash.

4. Servants of Joash
These individuals conspired against Joash and killed him as retribution for his actions against Jehoiada's son.

5. City of David
The burial place of Joash, though he was not honored with a burial in the tombs of the kings due to his unfaithfulness.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Godly Counsel
Joash thrived under Jehoiada's guidance but faltered when he ignored godly counsel. We must seek and heed wise, godly advice.

Consequences of Betrayal
Joash's betrayal of Jehoiada's family led to his demise. Betraying trust and righteousness has severe consequences.

The Danger of Turning Away from God
Joash's account is a cautionary tale about the dangers of turning away from God after initially following Him. Consistent faithfulness is crucial.

Justice and Retribution
The conspiracy against Joash was a form of divine justice for his actions. God's justice may not be immediate, but it is certain.

Legacy and Honor
Joash was not buried with the kings, signifying a loss of honor due to his unfaithfulness. Our actions determine the legacy we leave behind.

Bible Study Questions

1. How did Joash's relationship with Jehoiada influence his early reign, and what changed after Jehoiada's death?

2. What lessons can we learn from Joash's failure to remain faithful to God throughout his life?

3. How does the principle of sowing and reaping manifest in Joash's life, and how can we apply this principle to our own lives?

4. In what ways can we ensure that we are surrounded by godly counsel and avoid the pitfalls of turning away from God?

5. How does Joash's account challenge us to consider the legacy we are building through our actions and decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 12
Provides a parallel account of Joash's reign, highlighting his initial reforms and subsequent downfall.

2 Chronicles 24:17-22
Details the turning point in Joash's reign when he abandoned the temple of the Lord and killed Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada.

Galatians 6:7
Relates to the principle of sowing and reaping, as Joash's actions led to his downfall.

Proverbs 29:1
Warns about the consequences of hardening one's heart against correction, which Joash exemplified.