2 Chronicles 36:1

Then the people of the land took Jehoahaz son of Josiah and made him king in Jerusalem in place of his father.

Study Bible

Then the people of the land
This phrase indicates a collective action by the inhabitants of Judah, suggesting a sense of unity or common purpose among the populace. The Hebrew term for "people" here is "עַם" (am), which often denotes a community bound by shared identity and covenant with God. Historically, this reflects a period when the people had a significant role in leadership transitions, possibly due to the weakening of the monarchy's power or external pressures. It underscores the communal responsibility and involvement in governance, a principle that resonates with the biblical theme of collective accountability before God.

took Jehoahaz
The act of taking Jehoahaz implies a deliberate choice or selection, indicating that he was favored or seen as a suitable successor. The Hebrew root "לָקַח" (laqach) means to take or seize, suggesting a proactive decision by the people. Jehoahaz, also known as Shallum, was chosen despite being the younger son, which may reflect his popularity or the people's desire for a certain type of leadership. This choice highlights the dynamics of divine providence and human agency, where God’s purposes are often fulfilled through human decisions.

son of Josiah
Josiah was one of the most righteous kings of Judah, known for his reforms and dedication to the covenant with God. The mention of Jehoahaz as "son of Josiah" serves to remind the reader of the spiritual legacy and expectations placed upon him. The Hebrew term "בֵּן" (ben) signifies not just a biological relationship but also an inheritance of character and responsibility. This connection to Josiah sets a high standard for Jehoahaz, emphasizing the importance of godly heritage and the hope for continuity in righteous leadership.

and made him king
The coronation of Jehoahaz signifies a formal and recognized transition of power. The Hebrew verb "מָלַךְ" (malak) means to reign or become king, indicating the establishment of authority. This act of making him king reflects the people's desire for stability and continuity in leadership, especially after the death of a revered king like Josiah. It also points to the biblical theme of God’s sovereignty in establishing rulers, as seen throughout the Scriptures, where God raises leaders according to His divine plan.

in Jerusalem
Jerusalem, the political and spiritual center of Judah, is significant as the location of Jehoahaz's enthronement. The city, known as "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim) in Hebrew, holds deep covenantal significance as the site of the Temple and the Davidic throne. This setting underscores the centrality of Jerusalem in God’s redemptive history and the expectation that the king would uphold the covenantal laws and lead the people in faithfulness to God.

in place of his father
This phrase indicates succession, highlighting the continuity of the Davidic line, which is central to the biblical narrative of God’s promises to David. The Hebrew "תַּחַת" (tachat) means in place of or instead of, suggesting both a replacement and a continuation. This transition serves as a reminder of the temporal nature of human leadership and the enduring nature of God’s covenant. It also reflects the hope that each new leader would build upon the spiritual foundations laid by their predecessors, maintaining faithfulness to God’s commands.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoahaz
The son of King Josiah, Jehoahaz was chosen by the people to be king after his father's death. His reign was short-lived, lasting only three months.

2. Josiah
The father of Jehoahaz, Josiah was a righteous king known for his reforms and dedication to the Lord. His death marked a significant turning point for Judah.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, Jerusalem was the political and spiritual center of the kingdom. It was here that Jehoahaz was made king.

4. The People of the Land
This term refers to the inhabitants of Judah who played a role in selecting Jehoahaz as king. Their choice reflects the political dynamics and popular sentiment of the time.

5. The Event of Coronation
The transition of power from Josiah to Jehoahaz was a significant event, marking a shift in leadership and the beginning of a turbulent period for Judah.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Godly Leadership
Jehoahaz's brief reign serves as a reminder of the importance of godly leadership. Unlike his father Josiah, Jehoahaz did not follow the ways of the Lord, leading to his downfall. This highlights the need for leaders who are committed to God's principles.

The Role of the People in Leadership Selection
The people of the land played a crucial role in selecting Jehoahaz as king. This underscores the responsibility of communities to seek God's guidance in choosing leaders who will uphold His values.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Jehoahaz's reign was marked by disobedience to God, resulting in his removal from power. This serves as a warning of the consequences that come from turning away from God's commands.

The Transience of Earthly Power
Jehoahaz's short reign is a testament to the fleeting nature of earthly power and authority. It reminds us to place our trust in God's eternal kingdom rather than in temporary human institutions.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the contrast between Josiah's and Jehoahaz's reigns about the impact of personal faith on leadership?

2. How does the role of "the people of the land" in selecting Jehoahaz as king inform our understanding of communal responsibility in leadership decisions today?

3. In what ways does Jehoahaz's account illustrate the consequences of failing to adhere to God's laws, as outlined in Deuteronomy 17:14-20?

4. How can we apply the lessons from Jehoahaz's reign to our own lives, particularly in terms of seeking and supporting godly leadership?

5. Reflecting on the transience of Jehoahaz's power, how can we ensure that our focus remains on God's eternal kingdom rather than on temporary earthly positions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 23:30-34
This passage provides a parallel account of Jehoahaz's reign and his subsequent removal by Pharaoh Neco, offering additional context to his short-lived kingship.

Jeremiah 22:10-12
Jeremiah's prophecy concerning Jehoahaz (referred to as Shallum) highlights the consequences of his reign and the divine judgment that followed.

Deuteronomy 17:14-20
This passage outlines the laws concerning kingship in Israel, providing a backdrop for understanding the responsibilities and expectations of a king like Jehoahaz.