Introduction:
Jehoash, also known as Joash, was the eighth king of Judah, reigning from approximately 835 to 796 BC. His account is primarily recorded in 2 Kings 11-12 and 2 Chronicles 22-24. Jehoash's reign is notable for the restoration of the Temple in Jerusalem and his initial faithfulness to God under the guidance of the high priest Jehoiada.

Early Life and Ascension:
Jehoash was the son of King Ahaziah of Judah and became king at a very young age. His early life was marked by turmoil, as his grandmother, Athaliah, seized the throne of Judah after the death of her son Ahaziah. Athaliah attempted to exterminate the royal family to secure her position, but Jehoash was saved by his aunt Jehosheba, who hid him in the Temple for six years (2 Kings 11:2-3).

At the age of seven, Jehoash was anointed king in a coup orchestrated by Jehoiada the priest. The people of Judah rejoiced, and Athaliah was executed (2 Kings 11:12-16). Jehoash's early reign was characterized by his reliance on Jehoiada, who served as a mentor and guide.

Religious Reforms and Temple Restoration:
Under Jehoiada's influence, Jehoash initiated significant religious reforms. He renewed the covenant between the LORD, the king, and the people, committing to follow the LORD and abolish Baal worship (2 Kings 11:17-18). One of Jehoash's most notable achievements was the restoration of the Temple, which had fallen into disrepair during Athaliah's reign.

Jehoash instructed the priests to collect funds for the Temple's repair, but progress was slow. Eventually, a chest was placed at the entrance of the Temple to collect offerings from the people, which successfully funded the restoration (2 Kings 12:4-9). The work was carried out with integrity, and the Temple was restored to its former glory (2 Kings 12:15).

Later Reign and Decline:
After Jehoiada's death, Jehoash's reign took a negative turn. He succumbed to the influence of corrupt officials and abandoned the worship of the LORD, leading the people into idolatry (2 Chronicles 24:17-18). This apostasy provoked God's anger, and prophets were sent to call the king and the nation to repentance, but they were ignored.

One of the most tragic events of Jehoash's reign was the murder of Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada, who rebuked the king for his unfaithfulness. Jehoash ordered Zechariah to be stoned in the Temple courtyard, an act that brought divine judgment upon him (2 Chronicles 24:20-22).

Death and Legacy:
Jehoash's reign ended in turmoil. Hazael, king of Aram, attacked Jerusalem, and Jehoash was forced to pay a heavy tribute by stripping the Temple of its treasures (2 Kings 12:17-18). Eventually, Jehoash was assassinated by his own officials, and he was buried in the City of David, though not in the tombs of the kings due to his unfaithfulness (2 Kings 12:20-21).

Jehoash's legacy is a mixed one. His early years were marked by faithfulness and significant religious reforms, but his later years were characterized by apostasy and moral decline. His account serves as a reminder of the importance of steadfastness in faith and the dangers of turning away from God.