Jehoram, also known as Joram, was the son of Jehoshaphat and king of Judah. His reign is marked by significant deviation from the ways of his father, who had been a righteous king. Jehoram's rule is chronicled in 2 Kings 8:16-24 and 2 Chronicles 21, where his actions are depicted as evil in the sight of the LORD.

Background and Ascension to the Throne

Jehoram became king of Judah during the fifth year of Joram, son of Ahab, king of Israel. He was approximately 32 years old when he began his reign, which lasted for eight years. His marriage to Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, further entrenched the influence of the house of Ahab in Judah, leading to the introduction of idolatrous practices.

Idolatry and Apostasy

Jehoram's reign was characterized by a departure from the worship of Yahweh, as he followed the ways of the kings of Israel. 2 Kings 8:18 states, "And he walked in the way of the kings of Israel, just as the house of Ahab had done, for he married a daughter of Ahab and did evil in the sight of the LORD." This alliance through marriage led to the promotion of Baal worship and other pagan practices, which were abominations in the eyes of God.

Murder of His Brothers

In a bid to secure his throne, Jehoram committed fratricide, killing all his brothers and some of the princes of Israel. 2 Chronicles 21:4 records, "When Jehoram had established himself over his father’s kingdom, he strengthened himself by putting to the sword all his brothers along with some of the princes of Israel." This act of bloodshed was a direct violation of the covenantal laws and further demonstrated his ruthless and ungodly nature.

Divine Judgment and Prophetic Rebuke

Jehoram's reign was met with divine disfavor. The LORD stirred up the Philistines and the Arabians against him, leading to invasions that resulted in the loss of his possessions and family. Moreover, the prophet Elijah sent a letter to Jehoram, rebuking him for his idolatry and fratricide, and prophesying severe judgment. 2 Chronicles 21:12-15 details this prophetic message, warning of a great plague and the eventual demise of Jehoram due to a painful disease.

Death and Legacy

Jehoram's end was as ignominious as his reign. He suffered from an incurable disease of the bowels, as foretold by Elijah, and died in great agony. 2 Chronicles 21:19 notes, "In the course of time, after two years, his intestines came out because of his disease, and he died in severe pain. His people did not make a fire in his honor, as they had for his fathers." His death was met with indifference, and he was not buried in the tombs of the kings, reflecting the disdain of his people and the divine judgment upon his reign.

Jehoram's reign serves as a somber reminder of the consequences of turning away from the LORD and embracing idolatry and wickedness. His actions not only brought calamity upon himself but also upon the nation of Judah, illustrating the far-reaching impact of a leader's spiritual and moral choices.