Jehoshaphat, the son of Asa, was the fourth king of the Kingdom of Judah, reigning from approximately 873 to 849 BC. His reign is documented primarily in 1 Kings 22 and 2 Chronicles 17-20. Jehoshaphat is remembered as a king who sought to follow the ways of the Lord, continuing the religious reforms initiated by his father, Asa.

Religious Reforms and Devotion to God

Jehoshaphat's reign was marked by a strong commitment to the worship of Yahweh and the eradication of idolatry in Judah. He is noted for his efforts to remove the high places and Asherah poles, which were centers of pagan worship. 2 Chronicles 17:6 states, "His heart was devoted to the ways of the LORD; furthermore, he removed the high places and Asherah poles from Judah."

In addition to removing idolatrous practices, Jehoshaphat sent officials, Levites, and priests throughout the land to teach the people the Law of the Lord. This initiative is detailed in 2 Chronicles 17:7-9, where it is recorded that he sent out officials like Ben-hail, Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethanel, and Micaiah, along with Levites and priests, to instruct the people, thereby fostering a deeper understanding and adherence to God's commandments.

Military and Political Alliances

Jehoshaphat strengthened Judah's military defenses by building fortresses and store cities. He stationed troops in all the fortified cities of Judah and in the towns of Ephraim that his father Asa had captured (2 Chronicles 17:12-13). His military might was considerable, with a large army at his command, as described in 2 Chronicles 17:14-19.

Politically, Jehoshaphat sought alliances to secure his kingdom. Notably, he formed an alliance with Ahab, the king of Israel, through the marriage of his son Jehoram to Ahab's daughter Athaliah. This alliance, however, led to complications, as Ahab's house was steeped in idolatry and wickedness. Jehoshaphat's involvement with Ahab is most famously illustrated in the battle at Ramoth-gilead, where Ahab was killed, and Jehoshaphat narrowly escaped with his life (1 Kings 22:29-33).

Judicial Reforms

Jehoshaphat also implemented judicial reforms to ensure justice and righteousness in the land. He appointed judges in the fortified cities of Judah and charged them to judge fairly, without partiality, and in the fear of the Lord. In 2 Chronicles 19:6-7 , Jehoshaphat instructed the judges, "Consider carefully what you do, because you are not judging for man, but for the LORD, who is with you whenever you give a verdict. Now let the fear of the LORD be upon you. Be careful in what you do, for with the LORD our God there is no injustice or partiality or bribery."

Challenges and Divine Deliverance

Jehoshaphat faced significant challenges during his reign, including a formidable coalition of Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites who came to make war against Judah. In response, Jehoshaphat proclaimed a fast and sought the Lord in prayer, demonstrating his reliance on divine intervention. The Lord answered through the prophet Jahaziel, assuring Jehoshaphat of victory without the need for battle. As recorded in 2 Chronicles 20:15 , Jahaziel declared, "Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's."

Following this divine assurance, Jehoshaphat led the people in worship and praise, and the Lord set ambushes against the enemy, leading to their defeat (2 Chronicles 20:22-23).

Legacy

Jehoshaphat's reign is characterized by his dedication to God, his efforts to purify worship in Judah, and his reliance on divine guidance in times of crisis. Despite some missteps, particularly in his alliances, Jehoshaphat is remembered as a king who "did what was right in the eyes of the LORD" (1 Kings 22:43). His reign brought peace and prosperity to Judah, and his reforms had a lasting impact on the spiritual life of the nation.