Jehoshaphat was the fourth king of the Kingdom of Judah, succeeding his father Asa. His reign is recorded in 1 Kings 22:41-50 and 2 Chronicles 17-20. Jehoshaphat is noted for his religious reforms and efforts to bring the people of Judah back to the worship of Yahweh. He is described as a king who "did what was right in the eyes of the LORD" (1 Kings 22:43).

Jehoshaphat strengthened the kingdom by fortifying cities and building a strong military presence. He also sought to educate the people in the Law of the Lord, sending officials, Levites, and priests throughout Judah to teach the people (2 Chronicles 17:7-9). His commitment to God is further demonstrated by his removal of high places and Asherah poles, although some high places remained (1 Kings 22:43).

Jehoshaphat formed an alliance with Ahab, king of Israel, through marriage and military cooperation, which led to the ill-fated campaign at Ramoth-gilead (1 Kings 22:1-40). Despite this, Jehoshaphat sought the counsel of the Lord and was rebuked by the prophet Jehu for his alliance with Ahab (2 Chronicles 19:2).

One of the most notable events during Jehoshaphat's reign was the victory over the Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites, achieved through divine intervention. Jehoshaphat called for a national fast and sought the Lord's guidance. The Lord assured him of victory, and the enemy forces turned on each other, leading to their defeat without Judah having to fight (2 Chronicles 20:1-30).

Jehoram

Jehoram, also known as Joram, was the son of Jehoshaphat and became king of Judah after his father's death. His reign is detailed in 2 Kings 8:16-24 and 2 Chronicles 21. Unlike his father, Jehoram did not follow the ways of the Lord. He married Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, which led to the introduction of Baal worship in Judah (2 Kings 8:18).

Jehoram's reign was marked by violence and idolatry. He killed all his brothers and some of the princes of Israel to secure his throne (2 Chronicles 21:4). His actions led to divine judgment, and the prophet Elijah sent him a letter condemning his idolatry and foretelling his downfall (2 Chronicles 21:12-15).

During Jehoram's reign, Edom and Libnah revolted against Judah's rule (2 Kings 8:20-22). The Philistines and Arabians also invaded Judah, carrying away his possessions and family, leaving only his youngest son, Ahaziah (2 Chronicles 21:16-17). Jehoram suffered a painful disease and died after eight years of reign, leaving a legacy of apostasy and turmoil (2 Chronicles 21:18-20).

Ahaziah

Ahaziah, the son of Jehoram and Athaliah, became king of Judah after his father's death. His reign is recorded in 2 Kings 8:25-29 and 2 Chronicles 22:1-9. Ahaziah's rule was short-lived, lasting only one year. Influenced by his mother Athaliah and the house of Ahab, Ahaziah continued in the idolatrous practices of his parents (2 Kings 8:27).

Ahaziah allied with Joram, king of Israel, against Hazael, king of Aram. During this campaign, Joram was wounded, and Ahaziah visited him in Jezreel (2 Kings 8:28-29). This visit led to Ahaziah's downfall, as he was caught up in Jehu's rebellion against the house of Ahab. Jehu, anointed by God to destroy Ahab's lineage, killed both Joram and Ahaziah (2 Kings 9:27-28).

Ahaziah's death marked the end of his brief and troubled reign. His mother, Athaliah, seized the opportunity to usurp the throne, leading to further turmoil in Judah (2 Chronicles 22:10). Ahaziah's reign is remembered for its continuation of idolatry and the influence of the house of Ahab, which brought judgment upon Judah.