# Jehoash (Joash) ## Name(s) and Meaning - **Names:** Jehoash (also referred to as Joash). - **Meaning:** "Jehovah has given." - **Significance:** His name signifies divine favor and the idea of God's provision, which is reflective of his role as king and the preservation of the Davidic line. ## Lifespan/Timeline - **Lifespan:** Approximately 835–796 BC. - **Historical Context:** Jehoash became king during the divided monarchy period in Judah, following the death of his grandmother Athaliah who usurped the throne after the death of her son Ahaziah. ## Roles/Titles - **Roles:** King of Judah. - **Significance:** Jehoash was significant as a reformer who repaired the temple of the Lord in Jerusalem. His reign marked a period of religious reform and a temporary return to the worship of Yahweh, influenced by the priest Jehoiada. ## Tags - `#biblical-figures` - `#roles-king` - `#timelines-divided-monarchy` - `#books-2Kings` - `#books-2Chronicles` ## Cross-References - Jehoash is first mentioned as the son of Ahaziah in [[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 11|2 Kings Chapter 11]]. - His reign and temple reforms are detailed in [[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]]. - Further details of his reign can be found in [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 23|2 Chronicles Chapter 23]] and [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]. ## Key References: Jehoash (Joash) ### Primary Passages - **Ascension to the Throne:** [[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 11|2 Kings Chapter 11]]—Jehoash becomes king at age seven after being hidden from Athaliah's massacre, preserved by Jehosheba and Jehoiada the priest. - **Reforms and Temple Repair:** [[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]]—Jehoash initiates repairs to the temple with the guidance of Jehoiada. His reign is marked by a focus on restoring the temple, though later he falls into idolatry after Jehoiada's death. - **Reign and Death:** [[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]—Details his reign, including his initial faithfulness and subsequent apostasy, leading to his assassination by his own officials. ### Mentions in Genealogies - **Line of David:** Mentioned within the Davidic line in [[1Chronicles/1Chronicles Chapter 3|1 Chronicles Chapter 3]], emphasizing the continuation of the Davidic dynasty through him. ### New Testament References - **No direct mentions:** Jehoash is not directly mentioned in the New Testament. His role is primarily within the historical narrative of Judah's kings. ### Prophetic/Typological References - **Preservation of the Davidic Line:** The preservation of Jehoash as a young king represents God's faithfulness to His covenant with David, ensuring the line continues despite threats ([[2Samuel/2Samuel Chapter 7|2 Samuel Chapter 7]]). - **Temple Restoration as a Type:** The focus on temple restoration during Jehoash’s reign can be seen as a typological foreshadowing of Christ’s cleansing of the temple and His role in restoring true worship ([[John/John Chapter 2|John Chapter 2]]). ### Tags - `#key-references` - `#genealogy` - `#prophecy` - `#temple-reform` - `#davidic-line` ## Relationships: Jehoash (Joash) ### Family Relationships - **Parents:** Ahaziah (father), Zibiah of Beersheba (mother) ([[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]], [[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]). - **Grandmother:** Athaliah, who killed the rest of the royal family, but Jehoash was saved ([[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 11|2 Kings Chapter 11]], [[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 22|2 Chronicles Chapter 22]]). - **Children:** His son Amaziah succeeded him as king ([[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 14|2 Kings Chapter 14]]). ### Allies/Friends - **Jehoiada the Priest:** Served as a mentor and protector during Jehoash's early reign; was instrumental in his rise to power and his religious reforms ([[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 11|2 Kings Chapter 11]], [[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]). ### Adversaries/Conflicts - **Athaliah:** His grandmother, who usurped the throne and attempted to kill all royal heirs ([[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 11|2 Kings Chapter 11]], [[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 22|2 Chronicles Chapter 22]]). - **Hazael, King of Aram:** Threatened Jerusalem, leading Jehoash to pay tribute to avoid conquest ([[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]]). - **His own officials:** Conspired against and assassinated him due to his departure from proper worship after Jehoiada's death ([[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]). ### Spiritual Relationships - **God:** Initially followed the Lord under the guidance of Jehoiada, but after Jehoiada's death, he turned to idolatry, leading to divine disfavor ([[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]], [[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]). ### Tags - `#relationships` - `#family` - `#allies` - `#conflicts` - `#relationship-with-God` - `#kings-of-judah` ## Significance: Jehoash (Joash) ### Theological Importance - **Preservation of Davidic Line:** Jehoash's survival as an infant, hidden by Jehosheba and Jehoiada, illustrates God's commitment to the Davidic covenant, ensuring the continuation of the royal line from which the Messiah would come ([[2Kings/2 Kings Chapter 11|2 Kings Chapter 11]], [[2Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 22|2 Chronicles Chapter 22]]). - **Restoration of Worship:** Under the guidance of Jehoiada the priest, Jehoash contributes to the restoration of proper worship practices, repairing the temple and addressing idolatry, which are central themes of obedience and faithfulness to God ([[2Kings/2 Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]], [[2Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]). ### Historical Context - **King of Judah:** Jehoash's reign marks a period of reform and renewal in Judah's history, as he seeks to restore the temple and revive the covenantal faith of his people ([[2Kings/2 Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]], [[2Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]). - **Political Challenges:** His reign is marred by external threats and internal strife, including the influence of idolatrous practices and eventual assassination, illustrating the political and spiritual struggles of Judah during this era ([[2Kings/2 Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]], [[2Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]). ### Symbolism and Typology - **Temple Restoration:** Jehoash's work on the temple symbolizes spiritual renewal and the importance of maintaining a place for God's presence, serving as a precursor to the New Testament understanding of believers as the temple of the Holy Spirit ([[1Corinthians/1 Corinthians Chapter 3|1 Corinthians Chapter 3]]). - **A Foreshadow of Christ's Kingship:** Though Jehoash's rule ultimately fails, his initial reforms and dedication to God's house prefigure the perfect kingship of Christ, who would establish an everlasting kingdom of righteousness ([[Hebrews/Hebrews Chapter 1|Hebrews Chapter 1]]). ### Tags - `#significance` - `#theological-themes` - `#biblical-history` - `#typology` - `#DavidicCovenant` - `#temple` - `#renewal` ## Character Study: Jehoash (Joash) ### Strengths and Virtues - **Reformer:** Under the guidance of Jehoiada the priest, Jehoash restored the temple and organized its repairs, demonstrating a commitment to the worship of God ([[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings 12]]). - **Obedient (initially):** As long as Jehoiada was alive, Jehoash followed God’s laws, showing respect and obedience to spiritual authority ([[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles 24]]). ### Weaknesses and Failures - **Influence of Evil Counselors:** After Jehoiada's death, Jehoash turned away from God, influenced by the officials of Judah, showing a lack of spiritual discernment and steadfastness ([[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles 24]]). - **Ingratitude and Betrayal:** Ordered the stoning of Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada, who had been a father figure to him, demonstrating disloyalty and hardness of heart ([[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles 24]]). - **Failure to Trust God:** When Hazael king of Aram threatened Jerusalem, Jehoash did not trust in God's protection but instead stripped the temple of its treasures to buy him off ([[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings 12]]). ### Lessons Learned - Spiritual guidance is crucial for maintaining faithfulness; Jehoash thrived under Jehoiada’s mentorship but faltered without it ([[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles 24]]). - A lack of discernment in choosing advisors can lead to spiritual downfall ([[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles 24]]). - Ungratefulness and betrayal of those who have been faithful can lead to judgment and downfall ([[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles 24]]). ### Tags - `#strengths-reformer` - `#strengths-obedient` - `#weaknesses-influence` - `#weaknesses-betrayal` - `#lessons-guidance` - `#lessons-discernment` ## Themes and Symbolism: Jehoash (Joash) ### Key Themes - **Leadership and Influence:** Jehoash's reign showcases the impact of leadership and the influence of mentors, particularly Jehoiada the priest, on one's spiritual direction and the nation ([[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]], [[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]). - **Reform and Apostasy:** His early reign is marked by religious reform and temple restoration, but his later life falls into idolatry after Jehoiada's death, illustrating the theme of spiritual fidelity and its challenges ([[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]). - **Judgment and Consequences:** Jehoash’s life reflects the theme of divine judgment and the consequences of turning away from God, culminating in his assassination ([[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]], [[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]). ### Symbolic Elements - **Temple Restoration:** The restoration of the temple under Jehoash symbolizes a return to worship and reverence for God, representing spiritual renewal and the importance of maintaining God's dwelling place among His people ([[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]]). - **Jehoiada’s Influence:** Jehoiada's mentorship of Jehoash symbolizes godly wisdom and the importance of righteous influence and guidance ([[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]). ### Foreshadowing/Typology - **Faithful Leadership:** Jehoash's story serves as a cautionary typology of the need for faithful leadership aligned with God’s will and the dangers of abandoning righteous counsel, foreshadowing the ultimate need for a perfect King fulfilled in Christ ([[Isaiah/Isaiah Chapter 9|Isaiah Chapter 9]], [[John/John Chapter 10|John Chapter 10]]). - **Temple as Christ’s Body:** The focus on temple restoration can be seen as a typology of Christ’s body and the church, highlighting the need for spiritual restoration and purity ([[John/John Chapter 2|John Chapter 2]], [[1Corinthians/1Corinthians Chapter 3|1 Corinthians Chapter 3]]). ### Tags - `#themes` - `#symbolism` - `#typology` - `#foreshadowing` - `#leadership` - `#apostasy` - `#judgment` - `#templerestoration` ## Connections: Jehoash (Joash) ### Parallel Figures - **Josiah:** Like Jehoash, Josiah became king at a young age and initiated religious reforms to restore the worship of Yahweh ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 22|2 Kings Chapter 22]], [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 34|2 Chronicles Chapter 34]]). - **Hezekiah:** Both Jehoash and Hezekiah were involved in repairing the temple and restoring proper worship ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]], [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 29|2 Chronicles Chapter 29]]). ### Foreshadowing/Typology - **Christ:** The preservation of Jehoash as a child in the temple by Jehoiada's wife, Jehosheba, can be seen as a foreshadowing of God's providence in protecting the line of David, which ultimately leads to Christ ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 11|2 Kings Chapter 11]], [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 1|Matthew Chapter 1]]). ### Cultural/Historical Context - **Monarchic Period:** Jehoash's reign fits into the larger narrative of the divided kingdom, illustrating the ongoing struggle between faithfulness to Yahweh and the pressures of surrounding nations ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 11|2 Kings Chapter 11]], [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 23|2 Chronicles Chapter 23]]). - **Temple Restoration:** Jehoash's efforts in temple restoration highlight the centrality of the temple in Jerusalem as the heart of Israel's worship and the importance of maintaining its sanctity ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]], [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]). ### Tags - `#parallel-figures` - `#foreshadowing-Christ` - `#historical-context` - `#temple-restoration` - `#monarchic-period` ## Legacy: Jehoash (Joash) ### Impact on Israel/Church - **Restoration of the Temple:** Jehoash is noted for his efforts to repair and restore the Temple in Jerusalem, reflecting his initial dedication to the worship of Yahweh. Under the guidance of Jehoiada, the priest, he organized the collection of funds for this purpose ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]], [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]). His actions in this regard demonstrated a commitment to the spiritual and religious life of Israel, supporting the proper worship of God. - **Influence of Jehoiada:** The early part of Jehoash’s reign was marked by godly leadership, largely due to the influence of Jehoiada. This highlights the importance of righteous guidance and mentorship in leadership roles within Israel’s history ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]], [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]). ### Mentions in Later Scripture - **Referenced in Chronicles:** Jehoash’s reign is mentioned in the book of [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]], where his life and actions are recounted, emphasizing his initial faithfulness and later unfaithfulness after Jehoiada’s death. ### Spiritual Lessons - **The Importance of Godly Counsel:** Jehoash’s life underscores the importance of having godly advisors. His faithfulness waned after the death of Jehoiada, leading to poor decisions and eventual downfall ([[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]). - **Consequences of Turning from God:** His later actions, including the killing of Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada, and subsequent judgment, serve as a warning about the consequences of turning away from God and the betrayal of those who guide us in truth ([[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]). ### Modern Applications - Jehoash’s story is often used to illustrate the importance of maintaining faith and integrity throughout one’s life, not just during periods of strong spiritual influence. - His life serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of neglecting spiritual disciplines and guidance, emphasizing the need for continuous reliance on God and His Word. ### Tags - `#legacy` - `#impact-on-israel` - `#spiritual-lessons` - `#templerestoration` - `#godlycounsel` - `#faithfulnessanddownfall` ## Geography: Jehoash (Joash) ### Significant Locations - **Jerusalem:** The capital city of Judah where Jehoash ruled as king. It was here that he was hidden in the temple by Jehoiada the priest to protect him from Queen Athaliah ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 11|2 Kings Chapter 11]], [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 22|2 Chronicles Chapter 22]]). The temple played a crucial role in his early life and reign. - **Temple of the Lord:** The place where Jehoash was crowned king. It was also central to his reforms and repairs, as he worked to restore it during his reign ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]], [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]). ### Travel and Movement - **Hiding in the Temple:** Jehoash was hidden in the house of the Lord for six years while Athaliah reigned over the land. This period was critical for his survival and eventual ascension to the throne ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 11|2 Kings Chapter 11]], [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 22|2 Chronicles Chapter 22]]). - **Reign from Jerusalem:** Jehoash reigned in Jerusalem, and his movements were centered around the governance of Judah, especially focusing on religious reforms and the maintenance of the temple ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]], [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]). ### Historical/Spiritual Context - **Jerusalem’s Role:** As the religious and political heart of Judah, Jerusalem was pivotal for Jehoash’s efforts to restore proper worship and repair the temple, reinforcing the city's importance in maintaining the covenant with God ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]], [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]). - **Temple Restoration:** Jehoash’s dedication to repairing the temple was a significant spiritual act, reflecting his early commitment to God and the influence of Jehoiada the priest. It underscored the temple's central role in Judah's religious life ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]], [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]). ### Tags - `#geography` - `#locations-jerusalem` - `#locations-templeofthelord` - `#travel` - `#judah` - `#templerestoration` - `#jehoashreforms` ## Additional Resources: Jehoash (Joash) ### Cross-Referenced Scripture - **Reign in Judah:** Details of Jehoash's reign and religious reforms are recorded in [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]. - **Parallel Account:** Another account of Jehoash’s actions and reign can be found in [[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]]. - **Influence of Jehoiada:** The influence of priest Jehoiada on Jehoash's reign is emphasized in [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 23|2 Chronicles Chapter 23]]. - **Judgment and Downfall:** The consequences of Jehoash's actions after Jehoiada's death are highlighted in [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]. ### Genealogical References - **Royal Lineage:** Jehoash is part of the Davidic line, noted in genealogies that trace the royal lineage of Judah ([[1 Chronicles/1 Chronicles Chapter 3|1 Chronicles Chapter 3]]). ### Maps and Geographic References - **Temple Restoration in Jerusalem:** The location of Jehoash’s temple restoration efforts can be explored through maps of Jerusalem during his reign, as detailed in [[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]]. ### Recommended Bible Study Passages - **Jehoash’s Early Reforms:** [[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]], [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]. - **Moral and Spiritual Lessons:** The impact of Jehoiada's mentorship and Jehoash's later actions can be studied in [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]]. - **Lessons on Leadership:** [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 24|2 Chronicles Chapter 24]], [[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 12|2 Kings Chapter 12]] provide insights into leadership and accountability. ### Tags - `#additional-resources` - `#cross-references` - `#genealogy` - `#maps` - `#leadership` - `#reforms` - `#judgment`