2 Chronicles 21:20

Jehoram was thirty-two years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem eight years. He died, to no one's regret, and was buried in the City of David, but not in the tombs of the kings.

Study Bible

Jehoram was thirty-two years old when he became king
Jehoram, the son of Jehoshaphat, ascended to the throne of Judah at the age of thirty-two. This transition of power is significant as it marks a shift from the relatively righteous reign of Jehoshaphat to a more tumultuous period. Jehoram's age suggests he had some experience and maturity, yet his reign was marked by poor decisions. His marriage to Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, indicates a political alliance with the northern kingdom of Israel, which often led to the introduction of idolatry and pagan practices into Judah.

and he reigned in Jerusalem eight years
Jehoram's reign lasted eight years, a relatively short period compared to other kings of Judah. His rule was characterized by significant moral and spiritual decline. The city of Jerusalem, the political and spiritual center of Judah, was adversely affected by his leadership. Jehoram's reign saw the introduction of Baal worship, influenced by his wife Athaliah, which led to divine judgment upon the nation. This period is a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the impact of leadership on a nation's spiritual health.

He died, to no one’s regret
The phrase "to no one's regret" underscores the negative impact of Jehoram's reign on the people of Judah. His oppressive rule, including the murder of his own brothers to secure his throne, alienated him from his subjects. The lack of mourning at his death reflects the people's relief at the end of his tyrannical leadership. This sentiment is echoed in Proverbs 10:7, which contrasts the memory of the righteous with the name of the wicked that will rot.

and was buried in the City of David
The City of David refers to the ancient core of Jerusalem, where the kings of Judah were traditionally buried. Despite his failures, Jehoram was still buried in this prestigious location, indicating his royal status. However, his burial here does not imply honor, as the subsequent phrase clarifies. The City of David holds significant historical and archaeological importance, being the site of King David's original fortress and the center of his kingdom.

but not in the tombs of the kings
Jehoram's exclusion from the royal tombs signifies a lack of honor and respect. The tombs of the kings were reserved for those who were esteemed and honored in their death. This exclusion serves as a posthumous judgment on Jehoram's reign, highlighting the disgrace he brought upon himself and his lineage. It reflects the biblical principle that one's actions and legacy determine their honor, as seen in the contrasting burial honors given to other kings of Judah who followed God's ways.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoram
The son of Jehoshaphat, Jehoram became king of Judah and is noted for his wicked reign, which led to his unpopularity and lack of mourning at his death.

2. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, where Jehoram reigned as king. It holds significant historical and spiritual importance as the center of Jewish worship and governance.

3. City of David
A section of Jerusalem where Jehoram was buried, though not in the royal tombs, signifying a lack of honor due to his actions as king.

4. Jehoshaphat
Jehoram's father, who was a righteous king of Judah, contrasting with Jehoram's evil reign.

5. Tombs of the Kings
The burial place for the honored kings of Judah, from which Jehoram was excluded, indicating his dishonor.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Wicked Leadership
Jehoram's reign serves as a warning about the impact of ungodly leadership. His actions led to national suffering and personal disgrace.

Legacy Matters
The fact that Jehoram died "to no one’s regret" challenges us to consider the legacy we are leaving. Are we living in a way that honors God and blesses others?

The Importance of Godly Influence
Jehoram's marriage into Ahab's family led him astray. This highlights the importance of surrounding ourselves with godly influences.

God's Justice and Mercy
Despite Jehoram's evil, God did not destroy Judah for David's sake, showing His faithfulness and mercy even amidst judgment.

Reflecting on Our Mortality
Jehoram's death reminds us of the brevity of life and the importance of living with an eternal perspective.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Jehoram's life about the impact of our choices on our legacy?

2. How does Jehoram's exclusion from the royal tombs reflect the biblical principle of reaping what we sow?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our leadership, whether in family, work, or community, aligns with godly principles?

4. How does Jehoram's account encourage us to evaluate the influences in our lives and their impact on our spiritual walk?

5. Reflecting on Hebrews 9:27, how should the certainty of death and judgment influence the way we live our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 8:16-24
Provides a parallel account of Jehoram's reign, emphasizing his marriage to Ahab's daughter and his evil actions, which led to God's judgment.

Proverbs 10:7
Discusses the memory of the righteous versus the wicked, highlighting how Jehoram's lack of regret at his death aligns with the fate of the wicked.

Hebrews 9:27
Reminds us of the inevitability of death and judgment, encouraging reflection on how we live our lives in light of eternity.