Amaziah, the son of Joash, was the ninth king of Judah, reigning in Jerusalem for 29 years. His reign is chronicled in the books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles, where his life and actions are detailed, including his eventual demise.

Background and Reign

Amaziah ascended to the throne following the assassination of his father, Joash. His reign is noted for a mixture of fidelity and failure in his relationship with God. Initially, Amaziah did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, though not with a fully devoted heart (2 Chronicles 25:2). He is remembered for executing the servants who had killed his father but sparing their children, in obedience to the Mosaic Law, which states, "Fathers shall not be put to death for their children, nor children for their fathers; each is to die for his own sin" (2 Kings 14:6).

Amaziah's military campaigns included a significant victory over the Edomites, where he struck down ten thousand men of Seir (2 Chronicles 25:11-12). However, his subsequent actions led to his downfall. After his victory, Amaziah brought back the gods of the Edomites and set them up as his own gods, bowing down to them and burning sacrifices to them (2 Chronicles 25:14). This idolatry provoked the LORD's anger, and a prophet was sent to warn him, but Amaziah did not heed the warning.

Conflict with Israel

Amaziah's pride after his victory over Edom led him to challenge Jehoash, king of Israel, to battle. Despite a warning from Jehoash, Amaziah proceeded, resulting in a disastrous defeat at Beth-shemesh. Jehoash captured Amaziah, broke down the wall of Jerusalem, and plundered the temple and the king's palace (2 Kings 14:8-14).

Conspiracy and Death

The latter part of Amaziah's reign was marked by instability and discontent among his people. After his defeat and humiliation, a conspiracy was formed against him in Jerusalem. Fearing for his life, Amaziah fled to Lachish, but his enemies pursued him there and killed him (2 Kings 14:19; 2 Chronicles 25:27). His body was brought back to Jerusalem, where he was buried with his ancestors in the City of David (2 Kings 14:20).

Amaziah's death serves as a somber reminder of the consequences of pride and idolatry. His life illustrates the importance of wholehearted devotion to God and the dangers of turning away from Him.