2 Kings 11:11

And the guards stood with weapons in hand surrounding the king by the altar and the temple, from the south side to the north side of the temple.

Study Bible

And the guards stood with weapons in hand
This phrase highlights the presence of armed guards, indicating a time of potential danger and the need for protection. In the context of 2 Kings 11, this occurs during the coronation of Joash, a young king who was hidden from Athaliah's murderous intent. The guards' readiness with weapons underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need to safeguard the rightful heir to the throne. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's protection over His chosen leaders, as seen in other instances like David's protection from Saul.

surrounding the king by the altar and the temple
The altar and the temple are central to Israel's worship and religious life, symbolizing God's presence among His people. The king's proximity to these sacred sites during his coronation signifies the divine approval and religious legitimacy of his rule. This setting also emphasizes the intertwining of religious and political authority in ancient Israel. The temple, built by Solomon, was the heart of Jewish worship, and the altar was where sacrifices were made, pointing to the future ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who is both King and High Priest.

from the south side to the north side of the temple
This phrase indicates the comprehensive protection surrounding the king, covering the entire span of the temple area. The temple's orientation and layout are significant, as they reflect the order and structure of Israelite worship. The mention of the south and north sides may also symbolize completeness and thoroughness in the protection provided. This can be seen as a foreshadowing of the comprehensive nature of Christ's protection and reign, which extends over all creation. The temple itself is a type of Christ, who is the true temple where God and humanity meet.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Guards
These were the royal guards, likely the Carites and the guards mentioned earlier in the chapter, tasked with protecting the young king Joash.

2. King Joash
The young king of Judah, who was hidden in the temple for six years to protect him from Queen Athaliah's murderous intentions.

3. Altar
The altar in the temple where sacrifices were made, symbolizing the presence and worship of God.

4. Temple
The sacred place of worship in Jerusalem, central to the religious life of Judah.

5. Queen Athaliah
The usurping queen who sought to destroy the royal line of David but was ultimately overthrown.

Teaching Points

Divine Protection
Just as Joash was protected by the guards, God provides protection for His people. We can trust in His safeguarding presence in our lives.

Faithfulness in Duty
The guards were faithful in their duty to protect the king. As believers, we are called to be faithful in the roles God has given us.

God's Sovereignty
Despite Athaliah's attempts to destroy the royal line, God's plan prevailed. This reminds us that God's purposes cannot be thwarted by human actions.

The Importance of Worship
The setting of the temple and altar underscores the centrality of worship in the life of God's people. We should prioritize worship in our own lives.

Courage in Leadership
Jehoiada the priest showed courage in leading the coup against Athaliah. We are encouraged to be bold in standing for righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the protection of Joash in the temple reflect God's protective nature in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we be faithful in the roles and responsibilities God has given us, similar to the guards in this passage?

3. How does the account of Joash's preservation and coronation demonstrate God's sovereignty over human affairs?

4. What role does worship play in your life, and how can you ensure it remains central as it was in the temple?

5. How can we exhibit courage in our leadership and stand for righteousness in our communities, as Jehoiada did?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Chronicles 23
This chapter provides a parallel account of Joash's coronation and the overthrow of Athaliah, offering additional details about the events.

Psalm 91
This psalm speaks of God's protection, which can be seen in how Joash was safeguarded in the temple.

1 Kings 1
The anointing of Solomon as king shares similarities with Joash's coronation, highlighting the importance of divine appointment and protection.