Topical Encyclopedia Jehon'adab, also known as Jonadab, is a significant figure in the Old Testament, particularly noted for his association with Jehu, the king of Israel, and for his role in the narrative concerning the eradication of Baal worship from Israel. His account is primarily found in the books of 2 Kings and Jeremiah.Background and Family Jehon'adab was the son of Rechab, making him a member of the Rechabites, a nomadic clan known for their strict adherence to a lifestyle of abstinence from wine and a commitment to living in tents rather than permanent dwellings. This lifestyle was in obedience to the commands of their ancestor, Jonadab, who is often identified with Jehon'adab himself. The Rechabites are mentioned in Jeremiah 35, where their faithfulness to their ancestral commands is highlighted as a contrast to the disobedience of the people of Judah. Role in the Reformation of Israel Jehon'adab's most notable appearance is in 2 Kings 10, during the reign of Jehu. Jehu, who was anointed king of Israel by the prophet Elisha's servant, embarked on a mission to eradicate the house of Ahab and the worship of Baal from Israel. Jehon'adab joined Jehu in this mission, signifying his support for Jehu's zeal for the LORD. In 2 Kings 10:15-16 , it is recorded: "When he left there, he found Jehonadab son of Rechab, who was coming to meet him. Jehu greeted him and asked, 'Is your heart as true to mine as my heart is to yours?' 'It is,' Jehonadab replied. 'If it is,' said Jehu, 'give me your hand.' So he gave him his hand, and Jehu helped him into his chariot. Then he said, 'Come with me and see my zeal for the LORD!' So he had him ride in his chariot." Jehon'adab's presence in Jehu's chariot symbolized his endorsement of Jehu's actions and his commitment to the purging of idolatry from Israel. This alliance was significant, as it demonstrated a unity between Jehu's political authority and the religious integrity represented by Jehon'adab and the Rechabites. Legacy and Influence The legacy of Jehon'adab is further underscored in Jeremiah 35, where the Rechabites' obedience to their ancestor's commands is commended by God. The LORD uses their faithfulness as an example to the people of Judah, contrasting it with their own disobedience. In Jeremiah 35:18-19 , it is stated: "Then Jeremiah said to the house of the Rechabites, 'This is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: Because you have obeyed the command of your forefather Jonadab and have kept all his instructions and have done all he commanded you, this is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: Jonadab son of Rechab will never fail to have a man to stand before Me.'" Jehon'adab's influence extended beyond his lifetime, as his descendants continued to uphold the values and commands he established. His life and actions serve as a testament to the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God's commands, as well as the impact of righteous leadership in guiding a nation back to the worship of the true God. Concordance Jehon'adab (2 Occurrences)2 Kings 10:15 2 Kings 10:23 Thesaurus Jehon'adab (2 Occurrences)Jehon'adab. Jehonadab, Jehon'adab. Jehonathan . Multi-Version Concordance Jehon'adab (2 Occurrences). 2 Kings 10:15 And when he ... /j/jehon'adab.htm - 7k Jehonathan (3 Occurrences) Jehonadab (2 Occurrences) Jonadab (11 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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