2 Kings 11:20

and all the people of the land rejoiced. And the city was quiet, because Athaliah had been put to the sword at the royal palace.

Study Bible

and all the people of the land rejoiced.
This phrase indicates a collective sense of relief and joy among the people of Judah. The rejoicing follows the end of Athaliah's tyrannical rule, which was marked by idolatry and violence. The people’s joy reflects a return to the Davidic line through Joash, which was significant for maintaining the covenantal promises God made to David (2 Samuel 7:12-16). This moment of rejoicing can be seen as a type of the ultimate joy believers will experience in the reign of Christ, the true King from the line of David (Matthew 1:1).

And the city was quiet,
The quietness of the city signifies peace and stability after a period of turmoil and unrest. Athaliah's reign was characterized by chaos and the usurpation of the throne, which disrupted the social and religious order. The quietness can be seen as a fulfillment of God's promise to bring peace to His people when they follow His ways (Leviticus 26:6). This peace foreshadows the peace that Christ brings to the hearts of believers and ultimately to the world (John 14:27).

because Athaliah had been put to the sword at the royal palace.
Athaliah's execution marks the end of her illegitimate rule. She was the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, and her reign in Judah was an extension of the idolatry and wickedness associated with her parents. Her death at the royal palace, the center of her power, symbolizes the removal of evil from the heart of the nation. This act of justice aligns with the biblical principle that God will not allow wickedness to prevail indefinitely (Psalm 37:28). The removal of Athaliah can be seen as a precursor to the ultimate defeat of evil through Christ's victory over sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:57).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Athaliah
The daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, Athaliah was the queen mother who usurped the throne of Judah by killing the royal family, except for Joash, who was hidden by Jehosheba. Her reign was marked by idolatry and tyranny.

2. Joash (Jehoash)
The rightful heir to the throne of Judah, Joash was hidden in the temple for six years by his aunt Jehosheba and later crowned king at the age of seven.

3. Jehoiada
The high priest who orchestrated the coup against Athaliah, ensuring the preservation of the Davidic line by crowning Joash as king.

4. The Temple of the LORD
The place where Joash was hidden and later crowned king, symbolizing the preservation of God's covenant with David.

5. The King’s Palace
The location where Athaliah was executed, signifying the end of her illegitimate rule and the restoration of rightful leadership.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Leadership
God is in control of leadership transitions, ensuring His purposes are fulfilled even amidst human schemes.

The Importance of Godly Counsel
Jehoiada's role highlights the importance of godly leadership and counsel in guiding and protecting God's people.

Rejoicing in Righteousness
The people's joy reflects the natural response to the establishment of justice and righteousness.

The Preservation of God's Promises
Despite human attempts to thwart God's plans, His promises, such as the Davidic covenant, remain steadfast.

The Role of the Community in God's Plan
The collective action of the people in supporting Joash's coronation underscores the importance of community in fulfilling God's purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Athaliah's downfall and Joash's rise to power demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises?

2. In what ways can we seek and provide godly counsel in our own communities, as Jehoiada did for Joash?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced joy after a period of difficulty. How does this relate to the people's rejoicing in 2 Kings 11:20?

4. How can we actively participate in God's plans for justice and righteousness in our own lives and communities?

5. What lessons can we learn from the preservation of Joash about God's protection and provision in seemingly hopeless situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Chronicles 23
This chapter provides a parallel account of the events in 2 Kings 11, offering additional details about Jehoiada's role and the covenant renewal.

Exodus 15:20-21
The rejoicing of the people parallels the celebration of the Israelites after the defeat of Pharaoh's army, highlighting God's deliverance.

Psalm 30:5
The joy of the people after Athaliah's death reflects the theme of mourning turning into joy, as seen in this Psalm.

Isaiah 9:6-7
The restoration of Joash as king foreshadows the ultimate fulfillment of God's promise of a righteous ruler from David's line.