Topical Encyclopedia
The First Temple, also known as Solomon's Temple, was a central place of worship for the Israelites and housed many sacred treasures. During the reign of King Jehoash of Judah, the temple's treasures played a significant role in the political and military interactions with surrounding nations, particularly with the Syrians.
Historical ContextJehoash, also known as Joash, was the king of Judah from approximately 835 to 796 BC. His reign is noted for both religious reforms and political challenges. The kingdom of Judah faced significant threats from the neighboring kingdom of Aram (Syria), led by King Hazael. The Arameans were a formidable force, and their military campaigns posed a serious threat to the stability and security of Judah.
Biblical AccountThe account of Jehoash's interaction with the Syrians is recorded in
2 Kings 12:17-18 :
"At that time Hazael king of Aram went up and fought against Gath and captured it. Then he turned to attack Jerusalem. So King Jehoash of Judah took all the sacred objects dedicated by his fathers—Jehoshaphat, Jehoram, and Ahaziah, the kings of Judah—and his own sacred objects, and all the gold found in the treasuries of the house of the LORD and of the royal palace. And he sent these things to Hazael king of Aram, who then withdrew from Jerusalem."
Treasures of the TempleThe treasures of the First Temple were of immense religious and cultural significance. They included sacred objects dedicated by previous kings, as well as gold and other valuable items stored in the temple's treasuries. These treasures were not only symbols of divine favor and national pride but also served as a resource in times of political crisis.
Jehoash's DecisionFaced with the imminent threat of a Syrian attack on Jerusalem, Jehoash made the strategic decision to use the temple's treasures as a means of appeasement. By sending these valuable items to Hazael, Jehoash sought to buy peace and prevent the destruction of Jerusalem. This act of propitiation highlights the pragmatic use of religious assets in the realm of international diplomacy and conflict resolution.
Theological ImplicationsFrom a theological perspective, Jehoash's decision to use the temple treasures in this manner raises questions about the balance between faith and pragmatism. While the treasures were dedicated to the LORD, their use in securing peace for Judah can be seen as a necessary compromise in the face of overwhelming odds. This incident reflects the complex interplay between divine providence and human agency in the biblical narrative.
LegacyThe use of the temple's treasures by Jehoash is a poignant reminder of the vulnerability of even the most sacred institutions in times of political turmoil. It underscores the challenges faced by the kings of Judah in maintaining both religious integrity and national security. The incident also foreshadows the eventual decline of the First Temple, which would later be destroyed by the Babylonians in 586 BC, marking a significant turning point in the history of Israel.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
2 Kings 12:17,18Then Hazael king of Syria went up, and fought against Gath, and took it: and Hazael set his face to go up to Jerusalem.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Resources
Was it God's desire for Israel to worship Him in a temple in Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning and significance of the Temple Mount? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of Ezekiel's temple? | GotQuestions.orgTemple: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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