Jehoram, also known as Joram, was a king of Judah whose reign is chronicled in the Old Testament. He was the son of Jehoshaphat and the grandson of Asa, both of whom were considered righteous kings. Jehoram's reign is detailed in 2 Kings 8:16-24 and 2 Chronicles 21. His rule is marked by significant religious and political changes, as well as divine judgment due to his departure from the ways of his forefathers.

Ascension and Marriage Alliance

Jehoram became king of Judah during the fifth year of Joram, son of Ahab, king of Israel. His reign began with a significant political alliance through marriage. Jehoram married Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, which brought the influence of the northern kingdom's idolatrous practices into Judah. This alliance is seen as a pivotal moment that led to the spiritual decline of Judah during his reign.

Religious Apostasy

Jehoram's reign was characterized by a departure from the worship of Yahweh, as he followed the ways of the kings of Israel, particularly the house of Ahab. 2 Chronicles 21:6 states, "And he walked in the way of the kings of Israel, just as the house of Ahab had done, for he had married a daughter of Ahab." This apostasy included the construction of high places and the promotion of Baal worship, which provoked the Lord's anger.

Fratricide and Consolidation of Power

Upon ascending the throne, Jehoram secured his position by killing all his brothers and some of the princes of Israel (2 Chronicles 21:4). This act of fratricide was a stark departure from the practices of his father, Jehoshaphat, and demonstrated Jehoram's ruthless approach to consolidating power.

Divine Judgment and Prophetic Rebuke

Jehoram's reign was marked by divine judgment as a consequence of his idolatry and wickedness. The prophet Elijah sent a letter to Jehoram, rebuking him for leading Judah into sin and foretelling severe punishment. The letter, recorded in 2 Chronicles 21:12-15, warned of a great plague on his people, his children, his wives, and all his possessions, as well as a painful disease that would afflict Jehoram himself.

Military Defeats and Revolts

During Jehoram's reign, Judah faced several military challenges and revolts. Edom, which had been under Judah's control, revolted and established its own king (2 Kings 8:20-22). Additionally, Libnah revolted at the same time, reflecting the weakening of Jehoram's rule and the discontent among his subjects.

Death and Legacy

Jehoram's reign lasted eight years, and his death was as ignominious as his life. He suffered from a painful and incurable disease, as prophesied by Elijah, and died in great agony (2 Chronicles 21:18-19). His death was met with little mourning, and he was not buried in the tombs of the kings, indicating the lack of honor and respect he commanded at the end of his life.

Jehoram's reign is a cautionary tale of the consequences of turning away from God and embracing idolatry. His actions led to significant suffering for himself and his kingdom, and his legacy is remembered as one of failure to uphold the covenantal faithfulness expected of the Davidic line.