2 Kings 11:19

He took with him the commanders of hundreds, the Carites, the guards, and all the people of the land, and they brought the king down from the house of the LORD and entered the royal palace by way of the Gate of the Guards. Then Joash took his seat on the royal throne,

Study Bible

He took with him the commanders of hundreds
This phrase refers to the military leaders who were responsible for overseeing groups of a hundred soldiers. In the context of ancient Israel, these commanders played a crucial role in maintaining order and executing military strategies. Their involvement in this event underscores the importance of military support in establishing and securing a king's rule.

the Carites
The Carites were likely a group of foreign mercenaries or a specific ethnic group serving as royal bodyguards. Their presence indicates the use of non-Israelite forces for protection, a common practice in ancient Near Eastern monarchies to ensure loyalty and security.

the guards
These were the palace guards responsible for the safety of the king and the royal household. Their inclusion in this event highlights the need for internal security during a time of political transition, ensuring that the king's ascent to the throne was protected from internal threats.

and all the people of the land
This phrase signifies the involvement of the general populace in the coronation of the king. It reflects the communal aspect of kingship in Israel, where the support of the people was essential for a legitimate and stable reign. This public participation also emphasizes the restoration of rightful leadership after a period of turmoil.

and they brought the king down from the house of the LORD
The house of the LORD refers to the temple, a central place of worship and a symbol of God's presence among His people. Bringing the king from the temple signifies divine approval and blessing on the new ruler, aligning the kingship with religious authority and covenantal promises.

and entered the royal palace by way of the Gate of the Guards
The Gate of the Guards was a specific entrance to the royal palace, likely used for official and ceremonial purposes. This route underscores the formal and legitimate nature of the king's entry into his royal duties, marking the transition from religious consecration to political authority.

Then Joash took his seat on the royal throne
Joash's ascension to the throne marks the fulfillment of God's promise to preserve the Davidic line, despite previous attempts to eradicate it. His enthronement is a testament to God's faithfulness and sovereignty in maintaining His covenant with David, foreshadowing the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the eternal King from David's lineage.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joash (Jehoash)
The young king of Judah who was hidden in the temple for six years and then brought to the throne.

2. Commanders of Hundreds
Military leaders who played a crucial role in the protection and installation of Joash as king.

3. Carites
A group of mercenaries or royal guards who were loyal to the king and instrumental in the coup against Athaliah.

4. The House of the LORD (Temple)
The sacred place where Joash was hidden and later anointed as king.

5. Royal Palace
The destination where Joash was brought to assume his rightful place on the throne.

Teaching Points

Divine Protection and Providence
God's hand is evident in the preservation and eventual enthronement of Joash, demonstrating His faithfulness to His promises and His ability to protect His chosen ones.

The Role of Godly Leadership
The involvement of Jehoiada the priest and the commanders underscores the importance of godly leadership in guiding and protecting God's people.

Courage and Obedience
The actions of the commanders and guards reflect courage and obedience to God's plan, encouraging believers to act boldly in faith.

Restoration and Renewal
Joash's ascension marks a period of renewal for Judah, reminding us of the hope and restoration that comes through God's intervention.

The Importance of the Temple
The temple served as a place of refuge and anointing, highlighting the significance of worship and dedication to God in the life of believers.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Joash's protection and enthronement demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises?

2. In what ways can we see the importance of godly leadership in the events of 2 Kings 11:19, and how can this apply to leadership in the church today?

3. What role did courage and obedience play in the successful enthronement of Joash, and how can we apply these principles in our own lives?

4. How does the restoration of Joash to the throne reflect the theme of renewal in our spiritual lives?

5. Considering the significance of the temple in Joash's account, how can we prioritize worship and dedication to God in our daily routines?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Chronicles 23
This chapter provides a parallel account of Joash's ascension to the throne, offering additional details about the events and the role of Jehoiada the priest.

1 Kings 1
The anointing of Solomon as king shares similarities with Joash's account, highlighting the importance of divine appointment and protection of the Davidic line.

Psalm 132
This psalm speaks of God's promises to David and his descendants, which is relevant to Joash's rightful place on the throne.