Jehoram, also known as Joram, was the son of Jehoshaphat and king of Judah. His reign is marked by significant apostasy and turmoil, leading to his eventual suffering and death. Jehoram's account is primarily found in 2 Chronicles 21 and 2 Kings 8.

Background and Reign

Jehoram ascended to the throne of Judah following the death of his father, Jehoshaphat. Unlike his father, who was known for his piety and reforms, Jehoram's reign was characterized by idolatry and wickedness. He married Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, which further influenced his departure from the ways of the LORD. The Bible records that Jehoram "walked in the way of the kings of Israel, just as the house of Ahab had done, for Ahab’s daughter was his wife" (2 Chronicles 21:6).

Upon securing his throne, Jehoram took drastic measures to eliminate any threats to his rule, including the murder of his own brothers and some of the princes of Israel (2 Chronicles 21:4). His actions were a stark departure from the godly leadership of his predecessors.

Divine Judgment and Prophecy

Jehoram's apostasy provoked the LORD's anger, and divine judgment was pronounced upon him through the prophet Elijah. Elijah sent a letter to Jehoram, warning him of severe consequences for leading Judah into idolatry and for the bloodshed of his own family. The letter stated, "Behold, the LORD is going to strike your people, your sons, your wives, and all your possessions with a great calamity" (2 Chronicles 21:14).

Suffering and Death

As prophesied, Jehoram's reign was plagued by calamities. The LORD stirred up the Philistines and the Arabs, who invaded Judah and carried away all of Jehoram's possessions, including his sons and wives, leaving only his youngest son, Jehoahaz (also known as Ahaziah) (2 Chronicles 21:16-17).

Jehoram's personal suffering culminated in a severe and painful illness. The Bible describes it as "an incurable disease of the bowels" (2 Chronicles 21:18). After two years of agony, "his bowels came out because of his disease, and he died in severe pain" (2 Chronicles 21:19).

Legacy

Jehoram's death was met with indifference and disdain. Unlike his predecessors, he was not honored with a burial in the tombs of the kings. The people of Judah did not mourn his passing, reflecting the negative impact of his reign. The Bible succinctly notes, "He passed away, to no one’s regret" (2 Chronicles 21:20).

Jehoram's life serves as a cautionary tale of the consequences of turning away from God and leading others into sin. His reign left Judah weakened and vulnerable, setting the stage for further turmoil in the kingdom.