# Jehoiakim ## Name(s) and Meaning - **Names:** Jehoiakim (originally named Eliakim before his name was changed by Pharaoh Necho II). - **Meaning:** "Jehoiakim" means "The LORD raises up" or "The LORD sets up." - **Significance:** His name change from Eliakim ("God will establish") by Pharaoh Necho II signifies political and religious influence over Judah by Egypt during his reign. ## Lifespan/Timeline - **Lifespan:** Approximately 635–597 BC. - **Historical Context:** Jehoiakim reigned as king of Judah from 609 to 598 BC. His reign was marked by political turmoil and shifting alliances amid the power struggles of Egypt, Babylon, and Assyria. ## Roles/Titles - **Roles:** King of Judah. - **Significance:** Known for his rebellion against Babylon which resulted in the first Babylonian siege of Jerusalem. Jehoiakim's reign is noted for his opposition to the prophet Jeremiah and his disregard for the messages and warnings of the LORD. ## Tags - `#biblical-figures` - `#roles-king` - `#timelines-kingsofjudah` ## Cross-References - Introduced as king in [[2Kings/2 Kings Chapter 23|2 Kings Chapter 23]] when Pharaoh Necho II made him king. - His reign and actions are detailed in [[2Kings/2 Kings Chapter 24|2 Kings Chapter 24]] and [[2Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 36|2 Chronicles Chapter 36]]. - His interactions with the prophet Jeremiah and prophetic warnings can be found in [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 22|Jeremiah Chapter 22]] and [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 26|Jeremiah Chapter 26]]. ## Key References: Jehoiakim ### Primary Passages - **Reign of Jehoiakim:** [[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 23|2 Kings Chapter 23:34-37]]—Jehoiakim is appointed king by Pharaoh Necho and reigns over Judah, known for doing evil in the sight of the Lord. - **Jehoiakim's Actions and Downfall:** [[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 24|2 Kings Chapter 24:1-6]]—Details Jehoiakim's subjugation to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon and his subsequent rebellion, leading to the beginning of Judah’s exile. - **Jehoiakim's Reign and Death:** [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 36|2 Chronicles Chapter 36:4-8]]—Jehoiakim is placed on the throne by the king of Egypt and later dethroned by the Babylonians, highlighting his disregard for the covenant with God. ### Mentions in Genealogies - **Lineage of David:** Jehoiakim is mentioned in the genealogy of the kings of Judah, linking him to the Davidic line, found in [[1 Chronicles/1 Chronicles Chapter 3|1 Chronicles Chapter 3:15-16]]. ### New Testament References - **Genealogy of Jesus:** Though not directly mentioned, Jehoiakim is part of the lineage of Jesus, as outlined in [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 1|Matthew Chapter 1:11]], where his son Jehoiachin (Jeconiah) is listed. ### Prophetic/Typological References - **Prophecies Against Jehoiakim:** [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 22|Jeremiah Chapter 22:18-19]]—Jeremiah prophesies that Jehoiakim will not be mourned at his death and will have a disgraceful burial. - **Judgment of Jehoiakim:** [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 36|Jeremiah Chapter 36]]—Jehoiakim’s response to burning the scroll of Jeremiah’s prophecies leads to further pronouncements of judgment against him and his lineage. ### Tags - `#key-references` - `#genealogy` - `#new-testament` - `#prophecy` - `#jehoiakim` - `#kings-of-judah` - `#jeremiah` - `#babylonian-exile` ## Relationships: Jehoiakim ### Family Relationships - **Parents:** Josiah (father), Zebidah (mother) ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 23|2 Kings Chapter 23:36]]). - **Siblings:** Jehoahaz, Zedekiah, and Shallum ([[1 Chronicles/1 Chronicles Chapter 3|1 Chronicles Chapter 3:15]]). - **Children:** Jehoiachin (son, who succeeded him as king) ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 24|2 Kings Chapter 24:6]]). ### Allies/Friends - **Pharaoh Necho II:** Initially placed Jehoiakim on the throne of Judah and imposed a tribute on the land ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 23|2 Kings Chapter 23:34-35]]). ### Adversaries/Conflicts - **Nebuchadnezzar II:** King of Babylon who made Jehoiakim his vassal for three years before Jehoiakim rebelled against him ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 24|2 Kings Chapter 24:1]]). - **Prophets like Jeremiah:** Jehoiakim opposed the prophetic messages of Jeremiah, even going so far as to burn the scroll containing Jeremiah's prophecies ([[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 36|Jeremiah Chapter 36:23]]). ### Spiritual Relationships - **God:** Jehoiakim's reign was marked by disobedience to God and disregard for His prophets, leading to consequences for Judah ([[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 36|2 Chronicles Chapter 36:5]]). ### Tags - `#relationships` - `#family` - `#allies` - `#conflicts` - `#relationship-with-God` - `#kings-of-judah` - `#prophecy` - `#jehoiakim` ## Significance: Jehoiakim ### Theological Importance - **Divine Judgment:** Jehoiakim's reign is marked by a demonstration of God's justice and judgment upon the nation of Judah due to their continued disobedience and idolatry. His actions and subsequent punishment are illustrative of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments ([[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 23|2 Kings Chapter 23]], [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 26|Jeremiah Chapter 26]]). - **Prophetic Fulfillment:** His reign and actions fulfill the prophecies spoken by prophets like Jeremiah, showcasing the reliability and truth of God's word ([[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 36|Jeremiah Chapter 36]]). ### Historical Context - **King of Judah:** Jehoiakim was a king during a tumultuous period leading up to the Babylonian exile, which is a significant turning point in Israel's history ([[2Kings/2Kings Chapter 24|2 Kings Chapter 24]]). - **Political Alliances:** His alliances and shifts in loyalty between Egypt and Babylon impacted the geopolitical landscape of the region and contributed to the downfall of Judah ([[2Chronicles/2Chronicles Chapter 36|2 Chronicles Chapter 36]]). ### Symbolism and Typology - **Symbol of Rebellion:** Jehoiakim's life serves as a symbol of rebellion against God's authority, contrasting with other biblical figures who sought to honor God. His reign embodies a cautionary tale of the dangers of pride and disobedience ([[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 22|Jeremiah Chapter 22]]). - **Precursor to Exile:** His actions set the stage for the Babylonian exile which becomes a profound period of reflection and repentance for the Jewish people. This exile is later used as a typological reference to spiritual exile and restoration through Christ ([[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 25|Jeremiah Chapter 25]]). ### Tags - `#significance` - `#theological-themes` - `#judgment` - `#biblical-history` - `#typology` - `#rebellion` ## Character Study: Jehoiakim ### Strengths and Virtues - **None explicitly mentioned in Scripture:** The biblical accounts primarily focus on Jehoiakim's reign and its failures rather than highlighting any specific virtues or strengths. His story serves as a cautionary tale rather than an example of virtue. ### Weaknesses and Failures - **Idolatry and Wickedness:** Jehoiakim did evil in the sight of the Lord, following the abominations of the nations that the Lord had driven out before Israel ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 23 Verse 37|2 Kings 23:37]], [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 36 Verse 5|2 Chronicles 36:5]]). - **Oppression:** He taxed the people heavily to pay tribute to Egypt, burdening them unjustly ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 23 Verses 35-36|2 Kings 23:35-36]]). - **Disregard for Prophets:** Jehoiakim showed contempt for God's prophets, including cutting and burning the scroll of Jeremiah's prophecies ([[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 36 Verses 23-24|Jeremiah 36:23-24]]). - **Rebellion Against Babylon:** Despite being a vassal to Nebuchadnezzar, he rebelled, which led to further suffering and eventual conquest of Jerusalem ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 24 Verse 1|2 Kings 24:1]]). ### Lessons Learned - **Disobedience Leads to Judgment:** Jehoiakim’s reign exemplifies how persistent disobedience and idolatry lead to divine judgment and national downfall ([[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 22 Verses 18-19|Jeremiah 22:18-19]]). - **The Importance of Heeding God's Word:** His disdain for Jeremiah's prophecies and God's word showcases the peril of rejecting divine warnings ([[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 36 Verse 31|Jeremiah 36:31]]). - **Leadership Affects the Nation:** A king's failure to follow God can lead to widespread consequences for the entire nation, emphasizing the importance of godly leadership ([[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 36 Verses 6-7|2 Chronicles 36:6-7]]). ### Tags - `#weaknesses-idolatry` - `#weaknesses-oppression` - `#weaknesses-disobedience` - `#lessons-judgment` - `#lessons-heedingGodsWord` - `#lessons-leadership` ## Themes and Symbolism: Jehoiakim ### Key Themes - **Judgment and Rebellion:** Jehoiakim's reign is marked by rebellion against God’s commands and the subsequent divine judgment that falls on Judah ([[2 Kings/2 Kings 23:36-24:7|2 Kings 23:36-24:7]], [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah 22|Jeremiah 22]]). His actions serve as a warning of the consequences of turning away from God’s laws. - **Prophecy and Fulfillment:** His reign and its downfall fulfill the prophecies spoken by Jeremiah concerning the fate of Judah due to their disobedience ([[Jeremiah/Jeremiah 36|Jeremiah 36]], [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles 36:5-8|2 Chronicles 36:5-8]]). ### Symbolic Elements - **The Burning of the Scroll:** Jehoiakim’s burning of Jeremiah’s scroll is symbolic of his rejection of God’s word and authority. This act highlights the broader theme of human resistance to divine revelation ([[Jeremiah/Jeremiah 36:23|Jeremiah 36:23]]). - **The Siege and Destruction:** The siege of Jerusalem under his rule symbolizes the inevitable judgment that comes from disobedience and the breaking of covenant with God ([[2 Kings/2 Kings 24|2 Kings 24]]). ### Foreshadowing/Typology - **Foreshadowing of Christ’s Rejection:** Jehoiakim’s rejection of the prophetic word can be seen as a foreshadowing of the rejection of Christ, the Word made flesh, by many in his time ([[Jeremiah/Jeremiah 36|Jeremiah 36]], [[John/John 1:11|John 1:11]]). - **Typology of Unfaithful Leadership:** Jehoiakim represents the failure of human kingship and leadership, pointing towards the need for a faithful and righteous king, ultimately fulfilled in Christ ([[Jeremiah/Jeremiah 22:18-19|Jeremiah 22:18-19]], [[Revelation/Revelation 19:16|Revelation 19:16]]). ### Tags - `#themes` - `#symbolism` - `#typology` - `#foreshadowing` - `#judgment` - `#rebellion` - `#prophecy` - `#leadership` ## Connections: Jehoiakim ### Parallel Figures - **Zedekiah:** Like Jehoiakim, Zedekiah was a king of Judah who faced challenges from Babylonian forces and experienced the consequences of not heeding prophetic warnings ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 24|2 Kings Chapter 24]], [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 52|Jeremiah Chapter 52]]). - **Jehoiachin:** As Jehoiakim's son and successor, Jehoiachin also dealt with Babylonian captivity, highlighting a continuation of judgment upon Judah ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 24|2 Kings Chapter 24]], [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 36|2 Chronicles Chapter 36]]). ### Foreshadowing/Typology - **Judgment:** Jehoiakim's reign symbolizes the impending judgment due to disobedience to God’s commands, prefiguring the ultimate judgment and need for redemption through Christ ([[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 22|Jeremiah Chapter 22]], [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 36|Jeremiah Chapter 36]]). ### Cultural/Historical Context - **Babylonian Threat:** Jehoiakim’s reign occurred during rising Babylonian power, marking a critical period in Judah’s history when the people faced exile due to their unfaithfulness ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 24|2 Kings Chapter 24]], [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 25|Jeremiah Chapter 25]]). - **Prophetic Warnings:** The prophets, particularly Jeremiah, warned Jehoiakim of the consequences of his actions, underscoring the tension between the king and the prophetic office ([[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 26|Jeremiah Chapter 26]], [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 36|Jeremiah Chapter 36]]). ### Tags - `#parallel-figures` - `#foreshadowing-Christ` - `#historical-context` - `#judgment-and-redemption` - `#Babylonian-exile` ## Legacy: Jehoiakim ### Impact on Israel/Church - **Reign of Turmoil:** Jehoiakim's reign marked a period of instability and disobedience to God, leading to further decline in the kingdom of Judah ([[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 23|2 Kings Chapter 23]], [[2 Kings/2 Kings Chapter 24|2 Kings Chapter 24]], [[2 Chronicles/2 Chronicles Chapter 36|2 Chronicles Chapter 36]]). His lack of fidelity to God’s law contributed to the eventual Babylonian captivity, thus playing a part in the shaping of Israel's history and the fulfillment of prophetic warnings. - **Opposition to Prophets:** His antagonism towards the prophet Jeremiah, including the burning of a prophetic scroll, exemplifies the rejection of divine warning and guidance ([[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 36|Jeremiah Chapter 36]]). ### Mentions in Later Scripture - **Referred to in Prophetic Context:** Jehoiakim is mentioned in Jeremiah in relation to the Babylonian conquest and the judgment pronounced upon him and his household. His legacy is associated with the consequences of disobedience to God ([[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 22|Jeremiah Chapter 22]], [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 36|Jeremiah Chapter 36]]). ### Spiritual Lessons - **Consequences of Disobedience:** Jehoiakim’s life serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of ignoring God’s commands and the voices of His prophets. His reign illustrates the destructive outcomes of pride and refusal to heed divine warnings ([[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 26|Jeremiah Chapter 26]], [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah Chapter 36|Jeremiah Chapter 36]]). - **Divine Justice:** His story underscores the biblical theme that God’s justice will prevail and that leadership without adherence to God’s principles leads to downfall. ### Modern Applications - Jehoiakim’s legacy is a reminder to leaders and believers of the importance of humility and responsiveness to divine guidance. His story is often used in teachings and sermons to illustrate the importance of aligning leadership with God’s will and the peril of disregarding prophetic counsel. - Contemporary faith practices draw on Jehoiakim’s narrative to emphasize the value of spiritual vigilance and the necessity of adhering to God’s word. ### Tags - `#legacy` - `#impact-on-israel` - `#disobedience` - `#prophetic-warning` - `#spiritual-lessons` - `#divine-justice` ## Geography: Jehoiakim ### Significant Locations - **Jerusalem:** The capital of Judah and the primary location of Jehoiakim's reign as king. It was a city central to the religious and political life of the nation. Jehoiakim's actions and reign are predominantly associated with Jerusalem, where he resisted Babylonian influence and faced the consequences foretold by the prophet Jeremiah ([[2Kings/2 Kings 23:36-37|2 Kings 23:36-37]], [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah 22:18-19|Jeremiah 22:18-19]]). - **Babylon:** Although Jehoiakim personally did not go to Babylon, it played a significant role during his reign. Babylon, under King Nebuchadnezzar, exerted control over Judah, and Jehoiakim's refusal to pay tribute to Babylon had dire consequences, leading to his eventual downfall and the siege of Jerusalem ([[2Kings/2 Kings 24:1-6|2 Kings 24:1-6]]). ### Travel and Movement - **Jerusalem's Siege:** Jehoiakim's reign was marked by the political tension with Babylon, leading to a siege on Jerusalem. This siege is pivotal, as it sets the stage for the Babylonians' greater control over Judah and the eventual exile, which occurred after Jehoiakim's death during the reign of his successor, Jehoiachin ([[2Kings/2 Kings 24:1-6|2 Kings 24:1-6]]). ### Historical/Spiritual Context - **Jerusalem’s Role:** As the focal point of Jewish worship and the Davidic dynasty, Jerusalem symbolizes the spiritual and political heart of Judah. Jehoiakim's actions in this city, including his disregard for prophetic warnings, highlight the spiritual decline of the nation prior to the Babylonian exile ([[2Chronicles/2 Chronicles 36:5-8|2 Chronicles 36:5-8]], [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah 36:1-32|Jeremiah 36:1-32]]). - **Babylon's Influence:** Babylon's growing power during Jehoiakim’s reign represents the shift from Assyrian dominance to Babylonian supremacy, fulfilling Jeremiah's prophecies of hardship and exile for Judah due to their disobedience and idolatry ([[Jeremiah/Jeremiah 25:1-11|Jeremiah 25:1-11]]). ### Tags - `#geography` - `#locations-jerusalem` - `#locations-babylon` - `#travel` - `#babylonian-exile` - `#jehoiakim` ## Additional Resources: Jehoiakim ### Cross-Referenced Scripture - **Jehoiakim's Reign and Actions:** Details of his reign, including his actions against the prophets, and his relationship with Nebuchadnezzar ([[2_Kings/2_Kings_23:36-24:7|2 Kings 23:36-24:7]], [[2_Chronicles/2_Chronicles_36:5-8|2 Chronicles 36:5-8]], [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah_22:18-19|Jeremiah 22:18-19]], [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah_26:1-24|Jeremiah 26:1-24]]). - **Prophetic Warnings:** Jeremiah's prophecies concerning Jehoiakim, including his opposition to Jeremiah's message ([[Jeremiah/Jeremiah_36:1-31|Jeremiah 36:1-31]], [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah_25:1-38|Jeremiah 25:1-38]]). - **Jehoiakim's Death and Consequences:** Prophecies and narrative on the consequences of Jehoiakim’s reign ([[Jeremiah/Jeremiah_22:18-19|Jeremiah 22:18-19]], [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah_26:20-23|Jeremiah 26:20-23]]). ### Genealogical References - **Line of David:** Jehoiakim is a descendant of David through Josiah, his father ([[1_Chronicles/1_Chronicles_3:15-16|1 Chronicles 3:15-16]]). ### Maps and Geographic References - **Jerusalem:** Important to map the city where Jehoiakim reigned and where significant events in his life took place, including the Babylonian siege ([[2_Kings/2_Kings_24:1|2 Kings 24:1]]). - **Babylon:** Reference to the empire that exerted influence over Jehoiakim’s kingdom ([[2_Kings/2_Kings_24:1|2 Kings 24:1]], [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah_25:1-11|Jeremiah 25:1-11]]). ### Recommended Bible Study Passages - **Jehoiakim’s Actions and Prophecies Against Him:** [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah_36:1-31|Jeremiah 36:1-31]], [[Jeremiah/Jeremiah_22:18-19|Jeremiah 22:18-19]]. - **Historical Context of His Reign:** [[2_Kings/2_Kings_23:36-24:7|2 Kings 23:36-24:7]], [[2_Chronicles/2_Chronicles_36:5-8|2 Chronicles 36:5-8]]. ### Tags - `#additional-resources` - `#cross-references` - `#genealogy` - `#maps` - `#prophecy` - `#judgment` - `#kings`