Joash, also known as Jehoash, was a king of Judah who initially began his reign with promise and faithfulness to God, largely influenced by the high priest Jehoiada. However, his later years were marked by a significant departure from righteousness, leading to acts of wickedness that marred his legacy.

Early Reign and Influence of Jehoiada

Joash ascended to the throne at a young age, following the tumultuous period of Athaliah's usurpation. Under the guidance of Jehoiada, Joash undertook significant religious reforms, including the restoration of the temple in Jerusalem. The Scriptures note, "Joash did what was right in the eyes of the LORD all the days of Jehoiada the priest" (2 Chronicles 24:2). This period of his reign was characterized by adherence to the covenant and the worship of Yahweh.

Turning Away from God

The turning point in Joash's reign came after the death of Jehoiada. Without the priest's godly influence, Joash succumbed to the pressures of the officials of Judah, who led him into idolatry. The Bible records, "After the death of Jehoiada, the officials of Judah came and paid homage to the king, and he listened to them. They abandoned the house of the LORD, the God of their fathers, and served the Asherah poles and idols" (2 Chronicles 24:17-18). This apostasy provoked the anger of God, and prophets were sent to call the king and the people back to repentance, but they were ignored.

Murder of Zechariah

One of the most grievous acts of wickedness committed by Joash was the murder of Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada. Zechariah, filled with the Spirit of God, confronted the people and the king for their transgressions, saying, "Why do you transgress the commandments of the LORD so that you cannot prosper? Because you have forsaken the LORD, He has forsaken you" (2 Chronicles 24:20). In response, Joash ordered Zechariah to be stoned to death in the temple court, an act of betrayal and ingratitude towards the family that had once saved his life and secured his throne.

Divine Judgment and Downfall

Joash's reign ended in tragedy and divine retribution. The Arameans invaded Judah, and despite their small numbers, they inflicted heavy casualties, as God delivered Judah into their hands due to Joash's abandonment of Him. The Scriptures state, "Although the Aramean army had come with only a few men, the LORD delivered into their hands a very great army. Because Judah had forsaken the LORD, the God of their fathers, judgment was executed on Joash" (2 Chronicles 24:24).

Wounded in battle, Joash was left vulnerable, and his own servants conspired against him, assassinating him on his bed. His death was seen as a direct consequence of his betrayal of God and the murder of Zechariah. Joash was buried in the City of David, but notably, not in the tombs of the kings, reflecting the disgrace that overshadowed his end.

Legacy

The account of Joash serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of forsaking godly counsel and the consequences of turning away from the Lord. His initial promise and subsequent fall highlight the importance of steadfastness in faith and the peril of succumbing to ungodly influences.