Joash, also known as Jehoash, was a significant figure in the history of Judah, known for his miraculous preservation and subsequent reign as king. His account is primarily found in 2 Kings 11-12 and 2 Chronicles 22-24. Joash was the son of Ahaziah, king of Judah, and his life was marked by divine intervention and the faithfulness of a few courageous individuals.

Background and Threat to Life

Joash was born into the royal lineage of David, a crucial detail for the fulfillment of God's covenant with David that his descendants would continue to rule. However, his early life was threatened by the violent ambitions of his grandmother, Athaliah. After the death of her son Ahaziah, Athaliah sought to secure her power by eliminating all potential heirs to the throne, which included her own grandchildren. This act of treachery is recorded in 2 Kings 11:1: "When Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead, she proceeded to annihilate all the royal heirs."

Divine Preservation

In the midst of this massacre, Joash's life was preserved through the courageous actions of Jehosheba, the sister of Ahaziah and wife of Jehoiada the priest. Jehosheba secretly took Joash and hid him in the temple of the LORD for six years, safeguarding him from Athaliah's murderous intent. 2 Kings 11:2-3 recounts this act of bravery: "But Jehosheba, the daughter of King Joram and sister of Ahaziah, took Joash son of Ahaziah and stole him away from among the sons of the king who were being put to death. She put him and his nurse in a bedroom to hide him from Athaliah, and he was not killed. And Joash remained hidden with his nurse in the house of the LORD for six years while Athaliah ruled the land."

Ascension to the Throne

When Joash was seven years old, Jehoiada the priest orchestrated a coup to overthrow Athaliah and place Joash on the throne. This event was marked by careful planning and the support of the Levites and the people of Judah. Jehoiada's strategy included a covenant renewal ceremony, emphasizing the people's commitment to the LORD and the Davidic line. 2 Kings 11:12 describes the moment Joash was crowned: "Then Jehoiada brought out the king’s son, put the crown on him, presented him with the Testimony, and proclaimed him king. They anointed him, and the people clapped their hands and shouted, 'Long live the king!'"

Reign and Religious Reforms

Joash's reign began with a strong emphasis on religious reform, largely influenced by Jehoiada. Under their leadership, the temple of the LORD was repaired, and the worship of Baal was eradicated from Judah. 2 Kings 12:2 notes Joash's faithfulness during Jehoiada's lifetime: "And Joash did what was right in the eyes of the LORD all the days Jehoiada the priest instructed him."

Despite his promising start, Joash's later years were marred by a departure from his earlier faithfulness after Jehoiada's death. Influenced by the officials of Judah, he turned away from the LORD, leading to his eventual downfall. Nevertheless, Joash's preservation and early reign remain a testament to God's providence and the importance of faithful leadership in guiding the people of God.