2 Chronicles 21:2

Jehoram's brothers, the sons of Jehoshaphat, were Azariah, Jehiel, Zechariah, Azariah, Michael, and Shephatiah; these were all sons of Jehoshaphat king of Israel.

Study Bible

Jehoram’s brothers, the sons of Jehoshaphat
Jehoram was the firstborn son of Jehoshaphat, king of Judah. Jehoshaphat was known for his piety and efforts to bring the people back to the worship of Yahweh. The mention of Jehoram's brothers highlights the royal lineage and the potential for internal family conflict, which was common in royal families of the time. The brothers' presence indicates a large royal family, which was typical for kings to ensure a strong dynasty.

were Azariah, Jehiel, Zechariah, Azariah, Michael, and Shephatiah
The listing of Jehoram's brothers by name emphasizes their importance and individuality. Azariah is mentioned twice, which may indicate either a common name or a textual variation. Names like Zechariah and Michael are significant as they are also borne by other notable biblical figures, suggesting a cultural or religious significance. The repetition of names within families was common, reflecting the importance of certain names and their meanings, often related to God's attributes or actions.

these were all sons of Jehoshaphat king of Israel
Jehoshaphat is referred to as the king of Israel, though he was actually the king of Judah. This reflects the biblical usage where "Israel" can sometimes refer to the entire covenant people, not just the northern kingdom. Jehoshaphat's reign was marked by prosperity and religious reforms, aligning Judah more closely with the worship of Yahweh. The mention of his sons underscores the continuation of his lineage and the potential for dynastic succession, which was a critical aspect of maintaining stability and continuity in the ancient Near Eastern monarchies.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoshaphat
The father of Jehoram and his brothers, Jehoshaphat was a king of Judah known for his efforts to follow God and strengthen the kingdom spiritually and militarily.

2. Jehoram
The primary subject of the surrounding passage, Jehoram was the son of Jehoshaphat who became king and whose reign was marked by turning away from God.

3. Azariah, Jehiel, Zechariah, Azariahu, Michael, and Shephatiah
These are the brothers of Jehoram, sons of Jehoshaphat, who are mentioned in this verse. Their mention highlights the royal lineage and the potential for leadership within the family.

4. Kingdom of Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Jehoshaphat and his sons ruled. This context is crucial for understanding the political and spiritual dynamics of the time.

5. Israel
Although the verse refers to Jehoshaphat as king of Israel, it is important to note that this often refers to the united people of God, though Jehoshaphat was specifically king of Judah.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Godly Heritage
Jehoshaphat's legacy was one of faithfulness to God, providing a spiritual foundation for his sons. This highlights the importance of passing down a godly heritage to future generations.

The Consequences of Turning Away from God
Despite his father's faithfulness, Jehoram chose a different path, leading to negative consequences for himself and the kingdom. This serves as a warning about the dangers of forsaking God.

The Role of Family in Spiritual Leadership
The mention of Jehoram's brothers suggests the potential for shared leadership and support within a family. It underscores the importance of family unity and collective spiritual responsibility.

The Influence of Leadership on a Nation
The spiritual and moral direction of a leader can significantly impact a nation. Jehoshaphat's faithfulness brought blessings, while Jehoram's unfaithfulness brought turmoil.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehoshaphat's faithfulness to God contrast with Jehoram's actions, and what can we learn from this about the impact of our choices on future generations?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are passing down a godly heritage to our children and those we influence?

3. How does the account of Jehoram and his brothers illustrate the importance of family unity in spiritual matters?

4. What are some modern examples of how leadership can influence the spiritual and moral direction of a community or nation?

5. Reflecting on Jehoram's reign, what steps can we take to avoid turning away from God, even when faced with challenges or temptations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 22
Provides background on Jehoshaphat's reign, his alliance with Ahab, and his efforts to follow God, setting the stage for the events in 2 Chronicles 21.

2 Chronicles 20
Describes Jehoshaphat's faith and leadership, including his prayer and victory over Moab and Ammon, illustrating the spiritual heritage Jehoram and his brothers inherited.

2 Chronicles 21:4-20
Details Jehoram's reign, his turning away from God, and the consequences, contrasting with the faithfulness of his father Jehoshaphat.