Joash, also known as Jehoash, was the twelfth king of the northern kingdom of Israel. His reign is chronicled in the biblical books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles. Joash was the son of Jehoahaz and the grandson of Jehu, continuing the dynasty that Jehu established. His reign is generally dated to the early 8th century BC, approximately from 798 to 782 BC.

Reign and Political Context

Joash ascended to the throne during a tumultuous period in Israel's history. The kingdom was under significant pressure from the Arameans, who had reduced Israel's military capabilities and territorial holdings. His father, Jehoahaz, had sought the LORD's favor, and a deliverer was promised to Israel (2 Kings 13:4-5). Joash inherited a weakened kingdom but managed to restore some of its former strength.

Military Achievements

One of Joash's notable achievements was his military success against the Arameans. The prophet Elisha, on his deathbed, instructed Joash to strike the ground with arrows, symbolizing the victories he would achieve over Aram (2 Kings 13:14-19). Joash struck the ground three times, and Elisha prophesied that he would defeat the Arameans three times. True to the prophecy, Joash recaptured the cities of Israel from Ben-hadad, the son of Hazael, king of Aram (2 Kings 13:25).

Joash also engaged in conflict with Amaziah, king of Judah. The confrontation culminated in the battle at Beth-shemesh, where Joash defeated Amaziah. He subsequently captured Amaziah and entered Jerusalem, breaking down a section of the wall and seizing treasures from the temple and the royal palace (2 Kings 14:11-14).

Religious and Cultural Aspects

The biblical narrative does not attribute significant religious reforms to Joash. Like many of the kings of Israel, he continued in the sins of Jeroboam, which included the worship of golden calves and other idolatrous practices (2 Kings 13:11). Despite his military successes, Joash's reign did not bring about a spiritual revival in Israel.

Death and Succession

Joash reigned for sixteen years and was succeeded by his son Jeroboam II, who would go on to have a long and prosperous reign. Joash's death is recorded in 2 Kings 13:13 : "And Joash rested with his fathers, and Jeroboam sat on his throne. Joash was buried in Samaria with the kings of Israel."

Legacy

Joash's reign is marked by his military campaigns and partial restoration of Israel's power. However, his failure to lead the nation back to the worship of the LORD is a recurring theme in the narrative of the kings of Israel. His interactions with the prophet Elisha highlight the continued presence of prophetic voices in Israel, even during times of widespread idolatry. Joash's account serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between political power and spiritual fidelity in the history of Israel.