The regicide of Shallum is a significant event in the history of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, recorded in the Old Testament. Shallum, son of Jabesh, is noted for his brief reign as king of Israel, which lasted only a month. His ascent to the throne and subsequent assassination are detailed in 2 Kings 15:10-15.

Historical Context

The period of Shallum's rise to power was marked by political instability and frequent changes in leadership within the Kingdom of Israel. This era followed the long reign of Jeroboam II, during which Israel experienced both prosperity and moral decline. After Jeroboam's death, his son Zechariah ascended to the throne. However, Zechariah's reign was short-lived, lasting only six months, as he continued the sinful practices of his predecessors, which provoked the LORD's anger.

Shallum's Ascension

Shallum, son of Jabesh, conspired against King Zechariah and assassinated him in public view. This act of regicide is recorded in 2 Kings 15:10 : "Then Shallum son of Jabesh conspired against Zechariah, struck him down and killed him in front of the people, and reigned in his place." Shallum's coup fulfilled the prophecy given to Jehu, Zechariah's great-grandfather, that his descendants would sit on the throne of Israel to the fourth generation (2 Kings 10:30).

Reign and Assassination

Shallum's reign was notably brief, lasting only one month. His rule is characterized by the continuation of the political turmoil that plagued Israel during this period. The brevity of his reign is highlighted in 2 Kings 15:13 : "In the thirty-ninth year of Uzziah’s reign over Judah, Shallum son of Jabesh became king, and he reigned in Samaria one month."

Shallum's assassination came at the hands of Menahem, son of Gadi, who sought to seize the throne for himself. Menahem's violent overthrow of Shallum is described in 2 Kings 15:14 : "Then Menahem son of Gadi went up from Tirzah to Samaria and struck down Shallum son of Jabesh there. He killed him and reigned in his place."

Theological Implications

The regicide of Shallum underscores the chaotic and violent nature of Israel's monarchy during this period. It serves as a testament to the consequences of Israel's departure from the covenantal faithfulness required by God. The frequent assassinations and coups reflect the spiritual and moral decay that had taken root in the nation, as kings continued to lead the people in idolatry and disobedience to God's commandments.

The narrative of Shallum's brief reign and violent end is a sobering reminder of the instability that results from turning away from divine guidance. It also highlights the fulfillment of God's word, as the prophecy concerning Jehu's lineage came to pass with the end of Zechariah's reign, paving the way for further judgment upon the house of Israel.

References in Scripture

· 2 Kings 15:8-15: The account of Zechariah's assassination by Shallum and Shallum's subsequent assassination by Menahem.
· 2 Kings 10:30: The prophecy given to Jehu regarding his descendants on the throne of Israel.

The regicide of Shallum is a pivotal moment in the history of Israel, illustrating the nation's ongoing struggle with faithfulness and the dire consequences of its leaders' actions.2 Kings 15:14
For Menahem the son of Gadi went up from Tirzah, and came to Samaria, and smote Shallum the son of Jabesh in Samaria, and slew him, and reigned in his stead.
Nave's Topical Index

The Prophet Hosea.
... And thus dynasty supplanted dynasty, regicide followed regicide. ... the son of Jeroboam,
succeeded to the throne; but he was murdered by Shallum, after a short ...
/.../hengstenberg/christology of the old testament/the prophet hosea.htm

Who was King Zechariah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Huldah the prophetess in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who was King Uzziah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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