Name Meaning: Jehoshaphat means "Yahweh has judged" or "Yahweh judges." The name reflects a theocentric worldview, emphasizing God's sovereignty and justice.

Biblical References: Jehoshaphat is a prominent figure in the Old Testament, primarily known as the fourth king of the Kingdom of Judah. His reign is detailed in 1 Kings 22:41-50 and 2 Chronicles 17-20.

Historical Context: Jehoshaphat reigned over Judah from approximately 873 to 849 BC. He was the son of Asa and succeeded him as king. His reign is noted for religious reforms and efforts to strengthen the kingdom both spiritually and militarily.

Religious Reforms: Jehoshaphat is celebrated for his commitment to the worship of Yahweh. He removed high places and Asherah poles, which were associated with pagan worship, and sent officials, Levites, and priests throughout Judah to teach the Law of the Lord. This initiative is recorded in 2 Chronicles 17:7-9: "In the third year of his reign, he sent his officials...to teach in the cities of Judah. They taught throughout Judah, taking with them the Book of the Law of the LORD."

Military and Political Alliances: Jehoshaphat fortified Judah's defenses and built a strong army. He also formed an alliance with the northern Kingdom of Israel through the marriage of his son Jehoram to Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel. This alliance, however, had mixed outcomes. While it brought temporary peace, it also introduced negative influences into Judah, as seen in 2 Chronicles 18:1-3, where Jehoshaphat joins Ahab in battle against Ramoth-gilead.

Judicial Reforms: Jehoshaphat established a system of judges throughout the fortified cities of Judah, emphasizing justice and the fear of the Lord. He instructed the judges, as recorded in 2 Chronicles 19:6-7: "Consider carefully what you do, because you are not judging for man, but for the LORD, who is with you whenever you give a verdict."

The Battle of Jehoshaphat: One of the most notable events during Jehoshaphat's reign was the coalition of Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites against Judah. Jehoshaphat sought the Lord's guidance through prayer and fasting. The Lord responded through the prophet Jahaziel, assuring victory without the need for battle. The account in 2 Chronicles 20:15-17 states, "Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's."

Legacy: Jehoshaphat's reign is generally viewed positively in the biblical narrative. He is remembered for his devotion to God, his efforts to purify worship in Judah, and his reliance on divine guidance. Despite some political missteps, his commitment to the Lord and his reforms left a lasting impact on the spiritual life of Judah. His reign is summarized in 1 Kings 22:43: "He walked in all the ways of his father Asa and did not stray from them; he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD."

Death and Succession: Jehoshaphat died and was buried with his ancestors in the City of David. His son Jehoram succeeded him as king, as noted in 2 Chronicles 21:1: "Jehoshaphat rested with his fathers and was buried with them in the city of David. And his son Jehoram reigned in his place."Josh'aphat (2 Occurrences)

1 Chronicles 11:43
Hanan the son of Maacah, and Joshaphat the Mithnite;
(See RSV)

1 Chronicles 15:24
And Shebaniah, and Joshaphat, and Nethanel, and Amasai, and Zechariah, and Benaiah, and Eliezer, the priests, did blow with the trumpets before the ark of God; and Obed-edom and Jehiah were doorkeepers for the ark.
(See RSV)

Josh'aphat (2 Occurrences)
Josh'aphat. Joshaphat, Josh'aphat. Joshaviah . Multi-Version Concordance
Josh'aphat (2 Occurrences). 1 Chronicles 11:43 Hanan the ...
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Joshaphat (2 Occurrences)

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Joshaviah (1 Occurrence)

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