The regicide of Joash, a significant event in the history of the Kingdom of Judah, is recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in 2 Kings 12 and 2 Chronicles 24. Joash, also known as Jehoash, was the son of Ahaziah and became king of Judah at a young age after being saved from the massacre of the royal family by his aunt Jehosheba and the high priest Jehoiada. His reign is marked by both religious reform and eventual apostasy, leading to his assassination.

Background and Reign

Joash ascended to the throne at the age of seven, under the guidance of Jehoiada, who played a crucial role in his early reign. Jehoiada's influence was instrumental in leading Joash to restore the worship of Yahweh and repair the Temple in Jerusalem. The Berean Standard Bible notes in 2 Kings 12:2, "Joash did what was right in the eyes of the LORD all the years Jehoiada the priest instructed him."

During Jehoiada's lifetime, Joash adhered to the covenant with God, and his reign was marked by a return to the worship of the LORD and the removal of Baal worship. The Temple restoration project was a significant achievement, funded by the collection of offerings from the people (2 Kings 12:4-16).

Apostasy and Downfall

After the death of Jehoiada, Joash's fidelity to God waned. Influenced by the officials of Judah, he abandoned the house of the LORD and turned to idolatry. This apostasy provoked divine wrath, and prophets were sent to call the king and the people back to the covenant. However, they were not heeded. The BSB records in 2 Chronicles 24:19, "Yet the LORD sent prophets to bring them back to Him and testify against them, but they would not listen."

The most notable prophet during this time was Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada, who confronted Joash and the people about their transgressions. In a tragic turn of events, Joash ordered Zechariah to be stoned to death in the Temple court, an act of profound ingratitude and sacrilege (2 Chronicles 24:20-22).

Assassination

The regicide of Joash was a direct consequence of his apostasy and the murder of Zechariah. The BSB states in 2 Chronicles 24:25, "When the Arameans withdrew, they left Joash severely wounded. His own servants conspired against him for shedding the blood of the son of Jehoiada the priest, and they killed him on his bed." The conspirators, Zabad and Jehozabad, were motivated by Joash's betrayal of Jehoiada's family and his abandonment of the covenant with God.

Joash's assassination marked the end of his 40-year reign and served as a divine judgment for his actions. He was buried in the City of David, but notably, not in the tombs of the kings, reflecting the disgrace that overshadowed the end of his reign (2 Chronicles 24:25).

Legacy

The regicide of Joash serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of faithful leadership. His life illustrates the dangers of forsaking divine guidance and the tragic outcomes of ingratitude and idolatry. The narrative of Joash's reign and assassination underscores the biblical theme of covenant faithfulness and divine justice.2 Kings 12:20,21
And his servants arose, and made a conspiracy, and slew Joash in the house of Millo, which goes down to Silla.
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Who was King Joash in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Jehoiada in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Does the Bible say anything about grandparents? | GotQuestions.org

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