2 Kings 13:9

And Jehoahaz rested with his fathers and was buried in Samaria. And his son Jehoash reigned in his place.

Study Bible

And Jehoahaz rested
The phrase "rested" is a common biblical euphemism for death, indicating a peaceful transition from life to the afterlife. In Hebrew, the word used is "שָׁכַב" (shakab), which can mean to lie down or to rest. This term reflects the hope of a believer in the Old Testament for a peaceful repose after a life of faithfulness, despite Jehoahaz's mixed legacy. It suggests a return to the earth and a hope for resurrection, a concept that is more fully developed in the New Testament.

with his fathers
This phrase indicates burial in a family tomb, a common practice in ancient Israel. It signifies continuity with one's ancestors and a connection to the covenant promises given to the patriarchs. The phrase also implies a sense of belonging and identity within the community of God's people, even in death. It reflects the biblical theme of generational faithfulness and the hope that one's descendants will continue in the covenant relationship with God.

and was buried in Samaria
Samaria was the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, established by King Omri. The burial of Jehoahaz in Samaria signifies his status as a king of Israel, despite the spiritual and political turmoil of his reign. Archaeological evidence from Samaria reveals a city of significant importance and wealth, though often marked by idolatry and apostasy. This burial location underscores the tension between the political achievements and spiritual failures of Israel's kings.

And his son Joash became king in his place
The succession of Joash (also known as Jehoash) to the throne highlights the dynastic continuity in the Northern Kingdom. The name "Joash" means "Yahweh has given," reflecting a hope that his reign would be a gift from God, despite the challenges he would face. This transition of power is a reminder of God's sovereignty over the nations and His ability to work through imperfect leaders to accomplish His purposes. The biblical narrative often emphasizes the importance of righteous leadership and the consequences of turning away from God's commandments.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehoahaz
The king of Israel who reigned for 17 years. He was the son of Jehu and followed in the sinful ways of Jeroboam, leading Israel into idolatry.

2. Jehoash (also known as Joash)
The son of Jehoahaz who succeeded him as king. His reign continued the struggles against the Arameans and the spiritual decline of Israel.

3. Samaria
The capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, where Jehoahaz was buried. It was a center of political and religious activity.

4. Rested with his fathers
A common biblical expression indicating death and burial, often used to denote the end of a king's reign.

5. Burial
The act of interment, which in this context signifies the transition of power from Jehoahaz to Jehoash.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sinful Leadership
Jehoahaz's reign was marked by idolatry and disobedience to God, leading to oppression by foreign powers. This serves as a reminder of the impact of leadership on a nation's spiritual and physical well-being.

The Importance of Repentance
Despite Jehoahaz's failures, God showed mercy when he sought the Lord's favor (2 Kings 13:4). This illustrates the importance of repentance and seeking God's help in times of trouble.

Legacy and Influence
The actions and decisions of Jehoahaz affected not only his reign but also the future of his son Jehoash. Our choices can have lasting impacts on those who come after us.

God's Faithfulness Amidst Unfaithfulness
Even when Israel was unfaithful, God remained faithful to His covenant, providing deliverance through Jehoash. This underscores God's enduring faithfulness to His promises.

The Cycle of Sin and Redemption
The account of Jehoahaz and Jehoash reflects the broader biblical theme of sin, judgment, repentance, and redemption, encouraging believers to break cycles of sin through Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How did Jehoahaz's actions as king affect the spiritual and political state of Israel, and what can we learn from this about the influence of leadership?

2. In what ways does the account of Jehoahaz and Jehoash illustrate the consequences of idolatry and disobedience to God?

3. How does God's response to Jehoahaz's plea for help (2 Kings 13:4) demonstrate His mercy, and how can we apply this understanding to our own lives?

4. What lessons can we draw from the transition of power from Jehoahaz to Jehoash regarding the legacy we leave for future generations?

5. How does the account of Jehoahaz and Jehoash connect to the broader biblical theme of redemption, and how can this theme encourage us in our personal walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 10:31
This verse highlights Jehu's failure to turn away from the sins of Jeroboam, which set a precedent for his descendants, including Jehoahaz.

2 Kings 13:1-2
These verses provide context for Jehoahaz's reign, noting his evil actions in the sight of the Lord and the resulting oppression by the Arameans.

2 Kings 13:25
This verse describes how Jehoash, Jehoahaz's son, was able to reclaim cities from the Arameans, showing a partial restoration of Israel's fortunes.