I. Who was Joash?
Joash, also known as Jehoash, was the king of Judah who reigned from around 835 to 796 BC. He was the son of Ahaziah and Athaliah, making him the grandson of the infamous Queen Jezebel. Joash was only seven years old when he became king, after his grandmother Athaliah had killed all of the royal heirs in an attempt to secure her own power. However, Joash was rescued and hidden by his aunt Jehosheba, who was married to the high priest Jehoiada.
II. What was Joash’s reign like?
Despite his young age, Joash’s reign was marked by stability and prosperity for the kingdom of Judah. Under the guidance of his mentor Jehoiada, Joash implemented religious reforms and restored the temple of the Lord, which had fallen into disrepair during the reign of Athaliah. He also worked to root out idolatry and corruption in the kingdom, earning the favor of the people and the priests.
III. What were Joash’s accomplishments?
One of Joash’s most significant accomplishments was the restoration of the temple of the Lord. He oversaw the collection of funds from the people and the priests, which were used to repair and beautify the temple. Joash also reinstated the proper worship of the Lord and the observance of the Mosaic law, which had been neglected under the previous rulers.
Additionally, Joash strengthened the military and fortified the city of Jerusalem, ensuring the security and defense of the kingdom. He also established justice and fairness in his administration, earning a reputation as a just and righteous king.
IV. What were some key events during Joash’s reign?
One of the key events during Joash’s reign was the assassination of Queen Athaliah, which allowed Joash to ascend to the throne. Another significant event was the rebellion of the Edomites, who had been subject to Judah’s rule but sought to break free. Joash was able to defeat the Edomites and bring them back under his control.
Another important event was the invasion of Judah by the king of Aram, who plundered the temple and the royal palace. However, Joash was able to negotiate a peace treaty with the king of Aram and secure the release of the treasures that had been taken.
V. What was Joash’s legacy?
Joash’s legacy is one of religious revival and restoration. He is remembered as a king who brought the people of Judah back to the worship of the Lord and the observance of the Mosaic law. His reforms and accomplishments laid the foundation for a period of peace and prosperity in the kingdom.
However, Joash’s legacy was tarnished by his later years, when he turned away from the Lord and allowed idolatry and corruption to once again take hold in the kingdom. His downfall came when he was assassinated by his own officials, who were unhappy with his leadership.
VI. How is Joash remembered in the Bible?
In the Bible, Joash is remembered as a king who started out strong but ultimately faltered in his faithfulness to the Lord. He is praised for his early reforms and his efforts to restore the temple, but criticized for his later apostasy and his failure to maintain the worship of the Lord.
Despite his shortcomings, Joash is still seen as a significant figure in the history of Judah. His reign marked a period of renewal and revival for the kingdom, and his legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of staying faithful to the Lord and His commandments.