Joash, also known as Jehoash, was a significant figure in the history of the Kingdom of Judah, known for his reign as king and his efforts to restore the temple in Jerusalem. His account is primarily found in the books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles.

Background and Early Life

Joash was the son of King Ahaziah of Judah and became king under extraordinary circumstances. After the death of Ahaziah, his mother, Athaliah, sought to destroy the entire royal family to secure her power. However, Joash was saved by his aunt Jehosheba, who was married to Jehoiada the priest. Jehosheba hid Joash in the temple of the LORD for six years while Athaliah ruled the land (2 Kings 11:1-3; 2 Chronicles 22:10-12).

Ascension to the Throne

At the age of seven, Joash was brought out of hiding by Jehoiada the priest, who orchestrated a coup against Athaliah. The people of Judah crowned Joash as king, and Athaliah was executed (2 Kings 11:4-16; 2 Chronicles 23:1-15). Joash's ascension marked a return to the Davidic line and a restoration of rightful worship in Judah.

Reign and Religious Reforms

Joash reigned for 40 years in Jerusalem, and his reign is noted for the significant religious reforms he implemented, particularly in the early years under the guidance of Jehoiada. One of his most notable achievements was the restoration of the temple, which had fallen into disrepair during Athaliah's reign. Joash initiated a collection to fund the repairs, demonstrating his commitment to the worship of Yahweh (2 Kings 12:4-16; 2 Chronicles 24:4-14).

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). This highlights the positive influence Jehoiada had on Joash's reign and the king's initial dedication to following God's commandments.

Later Years and Downfall

After the death of Jehoiada, Joash's reign took a negative turn. He began to listen to the advice of other officials, leading to the abandonment of the temple and the worship of idols. This apostasy provoked the LORD's anger, and prophets were sent to call Joash and the people back to faithfulness. However, they were not heeded (2 Chronicles 24:17-19).

One of the most tragic events of Joash's reign was the stoning of Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada, who had confronted the king about his unfaithfulness. This act of betrayal against the family that had saved and supported him marked a significant moral decline (2 Chronicles 24:20-22).

Joash's reign ended in turmoil. He was wounded in a battle against the Arameans and later assassinated by his own officials as retribution for his actions against Zechariah (2 Kings 12:17-21; 2 Chronicles 24:23-26). Joash was buried in the city of David, but notably, not in the tombs of the kings, reflecting the disgrace that overshadowed his later years.

Legacy

Joash's legacy is a complex one. His early reign was marked by faithfulness and significant religious reforms, but his later years were characterized by apostasy and moral failure. His life serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of steadfastness in faith and the dangers of turning away from Godly counsel.