2 Kings 15:13

In the thirty-ninth year of Uzziah's reign over Judah, Shallum son of Jabesh became king, and he reigned in Samaria one full month.

Study Bible

In the thirty-ninth year of Uzziah’s reign over Judah
This phrase situates the events within the broader timeline of the divided kingdom period. Uzziah, also known as Azariah, was a king of Judah who reigned for 52 years, a period marked by prosperity and military success (2 Chronicles 26:1-15). His reign is significant for its length and stability, contrasting with the turmoil in the northern kingdom of Israel. Uzziah's reign is also noted for his pride leading to his downfall, as he unlawfully entered the temple to burn incense and was struck with leprosy (2 Chronicles 26:16-21). This context highlights the contrast between the relative stability in Judah and the instability in Israel.

Shallum son of Jabesh became king
Shallum's brief reign is a part of the chaotic period in Israel's history, characterized by rapid changes in leadership and political instability. Shallum assassinated King Zechariah, the last of Jehu's dynasty, fulfilling the prophecy given to Jehu that his descendants would sit on the throne of Israel to the fourth generation (2 Kings 10:30). This act of usurpation reflects the violent and tumultuous nature of Israel's monarchy during this time. The name "Shallum" means "retribution" or "recompense," which may be seen as indicative of his short-lived rule and the divine judgment on the house of Jehu.

and he reigned in Samaria
Samaria was the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel, established by King Omri (1 Kings 16:24). It served as the political and cultural center of Israel. The city was strategically located on a hill, making it defensible and significant in the region. Samaria's history is marked by idolatry and apostasy, as it became a center for the worship of Baal and other foreign gods, leading to its eventual downfall and conquest by the Assyrians in 722 BC (2 Kings 17:5-6). The mention of Samaria underscores the spiritual decline of Israel during this period.

one full month
Shallum's reign lasted only one month, indicating the extreme instability and rapid turnover of leadership in Israel at the time. This brief tenure is a testament to the political chaos and the lack of divine favor, as seen in the frequent assassinations and coups. The brevity of his reign is reminiscent of other short-lived rulers in Israel's history, highlighting the consequences of departing from God's covenant. This period of instability contrasts with the more stable reigns in Judah, where the Davidic line continued despite challenges.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Azariah (Uzziah)
King of Judah during whose reign Shallum became king of Israel. Azariah is noted for his long reign and his initial faithfulness to God, though he later fell into sin.

2. Shallum son of Jabesh
A king of Israel who seized the throne through conspiracy and reigned for only one month. His brief reign is a testament to the instability in the Northern Kingdom.

3. Samaria
The capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, where Shallum reigned. It was a center of political and religious activity, often associated with idolatry and rebellion against God.

4. Israel (Northern Kingdom)
The kingdom over which Shallum briefly reigned. It was characterized by a series of short-lived dynasties and frequent political upheaval.

5. Judah (Southern Kingdom)
The kingdom ruled by Azariah, known for its more stable line of Davidic kings and occasional periods of religious reform.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Unfaithfulness
The brief and tumultuous reign of Shallum serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God. Israel's political instability was a direct result of its spiritual unfaithfulness.

The Fleeting Nature of Power
Shallum's one-month reign illustrates the transient nature of earthly power. True security and stability come from God, not from human schemes or ambitions.

God's Sovereignty Amidst Chaos
Despite the chaos in Israel, God's sovereign plan was still at work. Believers can trust that God is in control, even when circumstances seem unstable.

The Importance of Godly Leadership
The contrast between the longer, more stable reign of Azariah in Judah and the short, violent reigns in Israel highlights the importance of godly leadership and faithfulness to God's commands.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the brief reign of Shallum teach us about the nature of political power and its limitations?

2. How does the instability in Israel during Shallum's time reflect the nation's spiritual condition, and what lessons can we draw for our own spiritual lives?

3. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in the midst of political and social chaos, both in the biblical account and in today's world?

4. How does the contrast between the reigns of Azariah and Shallum highlight the importance of faithfulness to God in leadership?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced instability or chaos in your life. How did your faith in God provide stability and peace during that time?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 15:10-12
Provides context for Shallum's rise to power, detailing the assassination of King Zechariah, which highlights the violent and unstable nature of Israel's monarchy.

2 Kings 15:14-15
Describes the end of Shallum's reign, where he is overthrown by Menahem, further illustrating the cycle of violence and instability in Israel.

2 Chronicles 26
Offers a parallel account of Azariah's reign in Judah, emphasizing his initial faithfulness and later pride, which led to his downfall.

Hosea 7:7
Speaks to the fiery nature of Israel's leaders, who devour their rulers, reflecting the political chaos during Shallum's time.