Joash, also known as Jehoash, is a significant figure in the history of the kingdoms of Judah and Israel, appearing in the Old Testament. His account is primarily found in the books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles. Joash was the son of Ahaziah and became king of Judah after a tumultuous period marked by the usurpation of the throne by his grandmother, Athaliah.

Early Life and Ascension to the Throne

Joash's early life was marked by danger and divine providence. After the death of his father, King Ahaziah, Athaliah sought to destroy the royal family to secure her power. However, Joash was saved by his aunt Jehosheba, who hid him in the temple for six years (2 Kings 11:2-3). During this time, he was under the protection and tutelage of Jehoiada the priest. At the age of seven, Joash was anointed king in a coup orchestrated by Jehoiada, which led to the execution of Athaliah (2 Kings 11:12-16).

Reign and Religious Reforms

Joash's reign is noted for its initial commitment to the worship of Yahweh and the restoration of the temple. Under the guidance of Jehoiada, Joash initiated significant religious reforms and repairs to the temple, which had been neglected and desecrated during Athaliah's reign (2 Kings 12:4-15). The Berean Standard Bible records, "Joash did what was right in the eyes of the LORD all the days of Jehoiada the priest" (2 Chronicles 24:2).

Later Years and Downfall

After the death of Jehoiada, Joash's reign took a negative turn. Influenced by corrupt officials, he abandoned the worship of Yahweh and turned to idolatry. This apostasy led to divine judgment, and prophets were sent to call him back to faithfulness, but he did not listen (2 Chronicles 24:17-19). His failure to heed these warnings culminated in the murder of Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada, who rebuked him for his unfaithfulness (2 Chronicles 24:20-22).

Joash's reign ended in tragedy. He was assassinated by his own officials as a result of his betrayal of Jehoiada's family and his departure from the ways of the Lord (2 Kings 12:20-21). His account serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of forsaking godly counsel and the consequences of turning away from the Lord.

Saraph

Saraph is a lesser-known figure mentioned in the genealogies of the tribe of Judah. His name appears in 1 Chronicles 4:22, where he is listed among the descendants of Shelah, one of Judah's sons. The passage in the Berean Standard Bible reads, "And Jokim, the men of Cozeba, and Joash and Saraph, who ruled in Moab and Jashubi-Lehem. These records are from ancient times" (1 Chronicles 4:22).

Historical Context and Significance

The mention of Saraph, along with Joash and others, in the genealogical records highlights the diverse and expansive nature of the tribe of Judah. The reference to ruling in Moab suggests that Saraph and his kin may have had influence or territorial claims beyond the traditional boundaries of Israel, indicating the complex interactions between the Israelites and their neighboring nations.

Theological Implications

While Saraph is not a central figure in biblical narratives, his inclusion in the genealogies underscores the importance of heritage and lineage in the biblical worldview. The chronicler's attention to detail in recording these names reflects the value placed on preserving the history and identity of God's chosen people. Saraph's mention serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of the tribes of Israel and their shared history, which is integral to understanding the unfolding of God's redemptive plan throughout the Old Testament.