Background and Context

Joash, also known as Jehoash, was a king of Judah who reigned in Jerusalem. He was the son of Ahaziah and became king at a young age after being hidden from the murderous rampage of Athaliah, his grandmother, who sought to destroy the royal lineage. Joash was preserved by Jehosheba, the sister of Ahaziah, and was raised in the temple under the guidance of the high priest Jehoiada. His reign is recorded in 2 Kings 11-12 and 2 Chronicles 22-24.

Reign of Joash

Joash began his reign with a strong commitment to restoring the worship of Yahweh and repairing the temple, influenced by the godly counsel of Jehoiada. Under Jehoiada's mentorship, Joash initiated significant religious reforms and oversaw the collection of funds for temple repairs. The early years of his reign were marked by a return to the worship of the LORD and a rejection of idolatry.

Turning Away from God

However, after the death of Jehoiada, Joash's faithfulness waned. He succumbed to the influence of corrupt officials and abandoned the house of the LORD, turning to idolatry. This apostasy led to divine judgment, and prophets were sent to call him and the people back to repentance. Among these prophets was Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada, who boldly confronted Joash. In a tragic turn of events, Joash ordered Zechariah to be stoned to death in the temple courtyard, an act that demonstrated his complete departure from the ways of the LORD.

Assassination of Joash

The assassination of Joash is a somber episode in the history of Judah, reflecting the consequences of turning away from God. According to 2 Kings 12:20-21 , "His servants conspired against him and killed Joash at Beth-millo, on the road that goes down to Silla. His servants Jozabad son of Shimeath and Jehozabad son of Shomer struck him down, and he died. And they buried him with his fathers in the City of David, and his son Amaziah reigned in his place."

2 Chronicles 24:25-26 provides additional details: "When the Arameans withdrew, they left Joash severely wounded. His own servants conspired against him because of the blood of the son of Jehoiada the priest, and they killed him on his bed. So he died and was buried in the City of David, but not in the tombs of the kings. Those who conspired against Joash were Zabad son of Shimeath the Ammonitess and Jehozabad son of Shimrith the Moabitess."

Significance

The assassination of Joash by his servants serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of forsaking God's commandments and the influence of ungodly counsel. Joash's initial zeal for the LORD, under the guidance of Jehoiada, highlights the importance of godly mentorship and adherence to divine law. However, his later actions illustrate the peril of abandoning one's faith and the inevitable judgment that follows. The narrative underscores the biblical principle that leadership should be rooted in righteousness and fidelity to God, as deviation from this path can lead to personal and national ruin.2 Kings 12:20
And his servants arose, and made a conspiracy, and slew Joash in the house of Millo, which goes down to Silla.
Nave's Topical Index

What does the Bible say about teamwork? | GotQuestions.org

Is there such a thing as a necessary evil? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Haman the Agagite? | GotQuestions.org

Assassination: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus