Jehoram, also known as Joram, was the son of Jehoshaphat and king of Judah. His reign is noted for its departure from the ways of his father, Jehoshaphat, who had been a righteous king. Jehoram's rule is marked by idolatry, fratricide, and a general decline in the spiritual and moral state of the kingdom of Judah.

Background and Reign

Jehoram ascended to the throne of Judah following the death of his father, Jehoshaphat. His reign is recorded in 2 Kings 8:16-24 and 2 Chronicles 21. Unlike his father, Jehoram did not walk in the ways of the LORD. Instead, he followed the practices of the kings of Israel, particularly those of Ahab, whose daughter Athaliah he married. This alliance with the house of Ahab led to the introduction and promotion of Baal worship in Judah.

Jehoram's reign was characterized by violence and bloodshed. To secure his position, he killed all his brothers and some of the princes of Israel (2 Chronicles 21:4). This act of fratricide was a stark departure from the Davidic tradition of brotherly unity and loyalty.

Divine Judgment and Prophetic Rebuke

Jehoram's apostasy and wickedness did not go unnoticed by the LORD. The prophet Elijah sent him a letter rebuking him for his idolatry and the murder of his brothers. The letter warned of severe consequences, including a great plague on his people, his children, his wives, and all his possessions (2 Chronicles 21:12-15).

As prophesied, the LORD stirred up the Philistines and the Arabs against Jehoram, and they carried away all his possessions, his sons, and his wives, leaving only his youngest son, Jehoahaz (also known as Ahaziah). Furthermore, Jehoram was struck with a severe and incurable disease of the bowels, which eventually led to his death in great agony (2 Chronicles 21:18-19).

Unlamented Death

Jehoram's death was as ignominious as his life. The chronicler notes that he departed "to no one's regret" (2 Chronicles 21:20). Unlike his predecessors, Jehoram was not buried in the tombs of the kings, a significant dishonor reflecting the people's disdain for his rule. His passing was unceremonious, and he left no legacy of righteousness or reform.

Spiritual Lessons

Jehoram's life serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of turning away from the LORD and embracing idolatry and wickedness. His failure to follow the godly example of his father, Jehoshaphat, and his alliance with the house of Ahab led to his downfall and the suffering of his people. The narrative of Jehoram's reign underscores the importance of faithfulness to God and the dangers of compromising with ungodly influences.