2 Kings 11:14

And she looked out and saw the king standing by the pillar, according to the custom. The officers and trumpeters were beside the king, and all the people of the land were rejoicing and blowing trumpets. Then Athaliah tore her clothes and screamed, "Treason! Treason!"

Study Bible

And she looked out
This phrase introduces Athaliah's perspective, a queen mother who had usurped the throne of Judah. The Hebrew verb "looked out" (וַתֵּרֶא, vatere) implies a sudden realization or awareness. Athaliah's gaze from her vantage point signifies a moment of revelation and impending doom as she witnesses the rightful king's anointing. This moment is pivotal, as it marks the beginning of the end of her illegitimate rule.

and saw the king standing by the pillar
The "king" here is Joash, the rightful heir to the throne, hidden and protected by Jehoiada the priest. The "pillar" (הָעַמּוּד, ha'amud) is significant in ancient Near Eastern culture, often representing a place of authority or a sacred site. In the temple, this pillar was likely a designated spot for the king, symbolizing his divine right to rule. Joash's presence here underscores the restoration of legitimate Davidic kingship.

according to the custom
This phrase indicates that Joash's anointing and presentation were done in accordance with established traditions. The Hebrew word for "custom" (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat) can also mean "judgment" or "ordinance," suggesting that this was not merely a cultural practice but a divinely ordained procedure. It highlights the importance of adhering to God's laws and traditions in the governance of His people.

with the officers and trumpeters beside the king
The "officers" (הַשָּׂרִים, hasarim) and "trumpeters" (הַחֲצֹצְרִים, hachatzotzerim) represent the military and ceremonial support for the king. Their presence signifies the unity and strength of the kingdom under rightful leadership. Trumpets in biblical times were used for signaling and celebration, indicating the joyous and momentous nature of this occasion.

and all the people of the land rejoicing and blowing trumpets
The "people of the land" (עַם הָאָרֶץ, am ha'aretz) refers to the general populace, who are depicted as rejoicing. This collective joy reflects the people's relief and approval of the restoration of the Davidic line. The act of "blowing trumpets" (תֹּקְעִים, toq'im) is a biblical symbol of victory and divine intervention, reminiscent of the walls of Jericho falling at the sound of trumpets.

Then Athaliah tore her clothes and screamed
Athaliah's reaction of tearing her clothes is a traditional expression of grief and despair in ancient Israel. The act signifies her recognition of defeat and the loss of power. Her scream is a vocal acknowledgment of her failed attempt to maintain control over the kingdom, highlighting the futility of opposing God's ordained plan.

'Treason! Treason!'
Athaliah's cry of "Treason" (קֶשֶׁר, kesher) is ironic, as she herself was the usurper. Her accusation underscores the theme of justice and divine retribution. In her eyes, the rightful restoration of the king is an act of betrayal, yet it is, in fact, the fulfillment of God's promise to David. This moment serves as a powerful reminder of the ultimate triumph of God's will over human schemes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Athaliah
The mother of Ahaziah, who seized the throne of Judah and ruled as queen after her son's death. She is known for her ruthless attempt to eliminate the royal line of David.

2. Joash (Jehoash)
The young king of Judah, hidden from Athaliah's massacre and later revealed and crowned as king in this passage.

3. The Temple of the LORD
The location where Joash was crowned king, symbolizing the restoration of rightful worship and leadership in Judah.

4. The Pillar
A significant place in the temple where kings stood during their coronation, representing authority and legitimacy.

5. The Officers and Trumpeters
Loyal supporters of the Davidic line who played a role in the coronation of Joash, signifying the restoration of rightful rule.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Leadership
Despite human attempts to thwart God's plans, His purposes prevail. Joash's survival and coronation demonstrate God's control over leadership and history.

The Importance of Righteous Leadership
The restoration of the Davidic line through Joash highlights the need for leaders who uphold God's covenant and lead people in righteousness.

The Role of Community in Upholding Truth
The officers and trumpeters, along with the people, played a crucial role in supporting the rightful king. This underscores the importance of community in standing for truth and justice.

The Consequences of Usurping Authority
Athaliah's cry of "Treason!" and her subsequent downfall serve as a warning against the dangers of seizing power illegitimately and opposing God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Joash's coronation illustrate God's faithfulness to His promises, particularly regarding the Davidic covenant?

2. In what ways can we, as a community of believers, support and uphold righteous leadership in our churches and society?

3. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or experienced God's sovereignty in a situation that seemed hopeless. How did it strengthen your faith?

4. What lessons can we learn from Athaliah's downfall about the dangers of pride and self-exaltation?

5. How can we apply the principles of rightful authority and community support in our personal and professional lives today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

1 Kings 1
The anointing of Solomon as king, which also involved a public ceremony with trumpets and rejoicing, similar to Joash's coronation.

Psalm 2
This psalm speaks of God's anointed king and the futility of opposing God's chosen ruler, reflecting the divine legitimacy of Joash's kingship.