Topical Encyclopedia The transition of power from Athaliah to Jehoash marks a significant moment in the history of the Kingdom of Judah, fulfilling divine promises and prophecies concerning the Davidic line. This event is recorded in the books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles, where the narrative unfolds with themes of covenant faithfulness, divine justice, and the preservation of the Davidic dynasty.Background and Context Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, became queen of Judah following the death of her son, King Ahaziah. Her reign is characterized by idolatry and the attempt to eradicate the Davidic line, as she sought to secure her power by destroying all potential heirs. However, unbeknownst to her, Joash (also known as Jehoash), the son of Ahaziah, was hidden by his aunt Jehosheba and her husband Jehoiada the priest in the temple of the LORD for six years (2 Kings 11:1-3; 2 Chronicles 22:10-12). Prophetic Fulfillment The preservation and eventual enthronement of Jehoash is seen as a fulfillment of God's covenant with David, ensuring that his lineage would continue. This covenant is articulated in 2 Samuel 7:12-16, where God promises David that his throne would be established forever. Despite Athaliah's attempts to thwart this divine promise, God's providential care ensured the survival of the Davidic line through Jehoash. The Role of Jehoiada Jehoiada the priest played a crucial role in the fulfillment of this prophecy. In the seventh year of Athaliah's reign, Jehoiada orchestrated a coup to install Jehoash as king. He gathered the commanders, the Carites, and the guards, making a covenant with them in the house of the LORD to protect the young king (2 Kings 11:4-12; 2 Chronicles 23:1-11). Jehoiada's actions were instrumental in restoring the rightful Davidic heir to the throne, demonstrating the importance of faithful leadership in aligning with God's purposes. The Overthrow of Athaliah The overthrow of Athaliah was marked by divine justice. As Jehoash was crowned king, Athaliah entered the temple and cried out, "Treason! Treason!" (2 Kings 11:14; 2 Chronicles 23:13). However, she was captured and executed outside the temple grounds, thus ending her tyrannical rule and the threat to the Davidic line (2 Kings 11:15-16; 2 Chronicles 23:14-15). Jehoash's Reign Jehoash began his reign at the age of seven and ruled for forty years in Jerusalem. Under the guidance of Jehoiada, he initiated religious reforms, including the restoration of the temple, which had been neglected during Athaliah's reign (2 Kings 12:1-16; 2 Chronicles 24:1-14). His early reign was marked by adherence to the ways of the LORD, as long as Jehoiada was alive. Significance The succession of Jehoash and the downfall of Athaliah underscore the faithfulness of God in preserving His covenant promises. Despite human attempts to disrupt His plans, God's sovereignty ensured the continuation of the Davidic line, which ultimately culminates in the coming of Jesus Christ, the eternal King from the line of David. This narrative serves as a testament to God's unwavering commitment to His word and His people. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 11:21Seven years old was Jehoash when he began to reign. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 12:1-21 2 Chronicles 24:1 Library The Antiquities of the Jews Resources What is the difference between Israel and Palestine? | GotQuestions.orgWhen and how was Israel conquered by the Assyrians? | GotQuestions.org Should Christians support the nation of Israel? | GotQuestions.org Israel: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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