Jehoram, also known as Joram, was the son of Jehoshaphat and the king of Judah. His reign is chronicled in the Old Testament, primarily in 2 Kings 8:16-24 and 2 Chronicles 21. Jehoram's rule is marked by significant religious and political changes, as well as divine judgment due to his departure from the ways of his father, Jehoshaphat, who was known for his piety and reforms.

Background and Ascension to the Throne

Jehoram was the firstborn son of Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, and he ascended to the throne following his father's death. Jehoshaphat had been a righteous king who sought to follow the ways of the Lord, and he had strengthened the kingdom of Judah both spiritually and militarily. However, Jehoram's reign marked a stark departure from his father's legacy.

Upon becoming king, Jehoram secured his position by killing all his brothers and some of the princes of Israel (2 Chronicles 21:4). This act of fratricide was a significant deviation from the Davidic tradition of brotherly unity and was a harbinger of the troubles that would follow during his reign.

Religious Apostasy and Political Alliances

Jehoram's marriage to Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, further influenced his reign. This alliance with the house of Ahab led to the introduction and promotion of Baal worship in Judah, mirroring the idolatry that had plagued the northern kingdom of Israel. The Bible records that "he walked in the way of the kings of Israel, just as the house of Ahab had done, for he had married a daughter of Ahab" (2 Kings 8:18).

Jehoram's apostasy was a direct violation of the covenantal laws that required exclusive worship of Yahweh. His actions provoked the Lord's anger, and the prophet Elijah sent him a letter warning of impending judgment due to his idolatry and the murder of his brothers (2 Chronicles 21:12-15).

Divine Judgment and National Turmoil

Jehoram's reign was plagued by internal and external strife as a result of his unfaithfulness. Edom, a vassal state under Judah's control, revolted against Jehoram's rule and established its own king (2 Kings 8:20-22). This rebellion was a significant blow to Judah's regional power and a fulfillment of the prophetic warnings against Jehoram's idolatry.

Additionally, the Philistines and Arabians invaded Judah, carrying away all the king's possessions, his sons, and his wives, except for his youngest son, Jehoahaz (also known as Ahaziah) (2 Chronicles 21:16-17). This invasion further weakened the kingdom and demonstrated the Lord's judgment upon Jehoram's house.

Illness and Death

Jehoram's life ended in misery and pain. The Lord struck him with an incurable disease of the bowels, and after two years of suffering, he died in great agony (2 Chronicles 21:18-19). His death was ignominious, and he was not honored with a burial in the tombs of the kings, reflecting the people's disdain for his reign.

Legacy

Jehoram's reign is a cautionary tale of the consequences of abandoning the covenant with God and embracing idolatry. His actions led to the spiritual and political decline of Judah, setting a precedent for future kings who would also struggle with faithfulness to the Lord. Despite his failures, the Lord's promise to David ensured the continuation of the Davidic line, ultimately leading to the birth of Jesus Christ, the Messiah, who would fulfill God's covenantal promises.