2 Kings 11 narrates a critical period in Judah's history, focusing on the usurpation of the throne by Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, and the subsequent rise of Joash (also known as Jehoash). 

After the death of her son Ahaziah, Athaliah seeks to eliminate the royal line of David by killing all potential heirs. However, Jehosheba, a daughter of King Jehoram, saves Joash, hiding him in the temple for six years.

During this time, Athaliah rules with tyranny, promoting Baal worship and leading the nation away from Yahweh. Jehoiada, the high priest, orchestrates a coup to restore the rightful heir to the throne. He gathers the Levites and the leaders of Judah, revealing Joash to them and anointing him as king. The people rejoice, and Athaliah is ultimately executed, restoring the Davidic line and renewing the covenant with God.

Key Verses

2 Kings 11:1-3: "Now when Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead, she arose and destroyed all the royal offspring." This verse highlights Athaliah's ruthless ambition and the threat to the Davidic line.

2 Kings 11:4-12: Jehoiada's plan to crown Joash emphasizes the importance of divine providence and the preservation of God's covenant with David.

2 Kings 11:17-21: The covenant made between the king, the people, and the Lord signifies a restoration of true worship and governance in Judah.

Reflection and Relevance

This passage illustrates the themes of divine sovereignty and human agency. Athaliah's reign represents the dangers of idolatry and tyranny, while Joash's ascension symbolizes hope and restoration. The covenant renewal under Jehoiada's leadership emphasizes the importance of returning to God and His ways, a message that resonates throughout Scripture.

Modern Life Applications

In contemporary contexts, this narrative encourages believers to recognize the importance of leadership that aligns with God's will. It challenges communities to stand against tyranny and idolatry, advocating for justice and righteousness. The story of Joash serves as a reminder that God can preserve His promises even in dire circumstances, inspiring faith and hope in the face of adversity. Additionally, it calls for vigilance in nurturing the next generation of leaders who will uphold God's covenant and values.

Jehoash Crowned King

2 Kings 11:1-21

When Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead, she rose up and destroyed all the royal offspring. But Jehosheba, the daughter of King Joram and sister of Ahaziah, took Joash the son of Ahaziah and stole him away from among the king’s sons who were being murdered, and she put him and his nurse in a bedroom. Thus they hid him from Athaliah, so that he was not murdered. And he remained with her for six years, hidden in the house of the Lord, while Athaliah reigned over the land.

But in the seventh year Jehoiada sent for the captains of the Carites and of the guards. He brought them into the house of the Lord and made a covenant with them, and he took an oath from them in the house of the Lord and showed them the king’s son. And he commanded them, saying, “This is what you are to do: a third of you who come on duty on the Sabbath shall keep watch over the king’s house, a third shall be at the gate of Sur, and a third at the gate behind the guards. So you shall keep watch over the house, preventing anyone from entering. And the two divisions of you, all who go off duty on the Sabbath, shall keep watch over the house of the Lord for the king. You shall surround the king, each with his weapons in his hand, and anyone who approaches you shall be put to death. You are to be with the king when he goes out and when he comes in.”

The captains did according to all that Jehoiada the priest commanded. Each of them took his men who were coming on duty on the Sabbath, with those who were going off duty on the Sabbath, and came to Jehoiada the priest. And the priest gave to the captains the spears and shields that had been King David’s, which were in the house of the Lord. And the guards stood, each with his weapons in his hand, from the south side of the house to the north side of the house, around the altar and the house. Then Jehoiada brought out the king’s son and put the crown on him and gave him the testimony. And they proclaimed him king and anointed him, and they clapped their hands and said, “Long live the king!”

When Athaliah heard the noise of the guards and of the people, she went into the house of the Lord to the people. And when she looked, there was the king standing by the pillar, according to the custom, and the captains and the trumpeters beside the king, and all the people of the land rejoicing and blowing trumpets. Then Athaliah tore her clothes and cried, “Treason! Treason!”

Then Jehoiada the priest commanded the captains who were in command of the army, “Bring her out between the ranks, and put to death anyone who follows her.” For the priest said, “Let her not be put to death in the house of the Lord.” So they seized her and brought her to the entrance of the horses to the king’s house, and there they put her to death.

And Jehoiada made a covenant between the Lord and the king and the people, that they should be the Lord’s people. He also made a covenant between the king and the people. Then all the people of the land went to the house of Baal and tore it down; they broke in pieces his altars and his images thoroughly, and they killed Mattan the priest of Baal before the altars. And Jehoiada appointed watchmen over the house of the Lord. And he took the captains, the Carites, the guards, and all the people of the land, and they brought the king down from the house of the Lord and went to the king’s house by way of the gate of the guards. And he sat on the throne of the kings. So all the people of the land rejoiced, and the city was quiet after Athaliah had been put to death with the sword at the king’s house.

Jehoash was seven years old when he began to reign.

Author and Date

The book of 2 Kings does not explicitly name its author. Jewish tradition ascribes the authorship to the prophet Jeremiah, though this is debated among scholars. The book was likely compiled in the mid-6th century BC, during or shortly after the Babylonian exile.

Historical Setting

2 Kings 11 takes place in the southern kingdom of Judah during a period of political and religious turmoil. Athaliah, the mother of the deceased King Ahaziah, seizes power and attempts to eliminate the entire royal line. This chapter recounts the events leading to the overthrow of Athaliah and the restoration of the Davidic dynasty through the coronation of the young Jehoash.

Cultural Background

The events in this chapter highlight the importance of the Davidic line in Judahite culture and religion. The throne was promised to David's descendants, and any attempt to usurp it was seen as a direct challenge to God's covenant. The presence of the temple of Baal indicates the influence of foreign religious practices, which were often intertwined with political power.

Original Audience

The original audience was likely the Jewish people living in exile in Babylon. The story of Jehoash's preservation and restoration would have provided hope and encouragement, reminding them that God was faithful to His promises and could restore His people even in the darkest of times.

CROSS-REFERENCES

• 2 Chronicles 22:10-23:21: This passage provides a parallel account of the same events, offering additional details and perspectives.

• 2 Samuel 7:12-16: God's promise to David that his descendants would always rule on the throne. This promise is central to the events in 2 Kings 11.

• Psalm 89:3-4: A poetic expression of God's covenant with David, emphasizing the enduring nature of his dynasty.

• 2 Kings 9:6-10: Jehu's anointing as king of Israel and his command to destroy the house of Ahab, which is related to Athaliah's family.

• Exodus 22:20: God's command to destroy those who sacrifice to any god other than the Lord alone. This law is relevant to the destruction of the temple of Baal.

KEY THEMES

• Preservation of the Davidic Line: The central theme is God's faithfulness to His promise to David, ensuring that his line would continue to rule.

• Overthrow of Idolatry: The destruction of the temple of Baal and the execution of its priest symbolize the restoration of true worship and the rejection of foreign gods.

• Covenant Renewal: The covenant made between the Lord, the king, and the people signifies a recommitment to God's law and a return to faithful living.

• Divine Providence: The hidden preservation of Jehoash for six years demonstrates God's active involvement in protecting His chosen leaders and fulfilling His purposes.

• Courage and Righteousness: Jehoiada's courage in standing against Athaliah and his commitment to restoring the rightful king serve as an example of righteous leadership.

ORIGINAL LANGUAGE

• Athaliah (עֲתַלְיָה): Her name means "God is exalted" or "afflicted by God."

• Jehoash/Joash (יְהוֹאָשׁ): His name means "The Lord has given."

• Jehoiada (יְהוֹיָדָע): His name means "The Lord knows."

• Covenant (בְּרִית): This term signifies a binding agreement or treaty, often between God and His people.

• Anointing (מָשַׁח): The act of pouring oil on someone's head to consecrate them for a specific purpose, such as kingship or priesthood.

APPLICATION

• God's Faithfulness: This passage reminds us that God is faithful to His promises, even when circumstances seem impossible. We can trust in His plan and provision, even in the midst of difficulty.

• Courage to Stand for Truth: Jehoiada's example encourages us to stand up for what is right, even when it is unpopular or dangerous. We are called to be courageous in defending truth and righteousness.

• Importance of Covenant: The covenant renewal in this chapter highlights the importance of maintaining our relationship with God through obedience and faithfulness. We should regularly examine our hearts and lives to ensure that we are living in accordance with His will.

• Protecting the Vulnerable: Jehosheba's act of rescuing Jehoash demonstrates the importance of protecting the vulnerable and standing up for those who cannot defend themselves.

Rejecting Idolatry: The destruction of the temple of Baal reminds us to reject all forms of idolatry, whether it be the worship of false gods or the pursuit of worldly possessions and pleasures.