Jehoram, also known as Joram, was the fifth king of the Kingdom of Judah and a significant figure in the lineage of Jesus Christ. He was the son of Jehoshaphat and reigned from approximately 848 to 841 BC. His reign is documented in the biblical books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles.

Family and Ascension to the Throne

Jehoram was the firstborn son of Jehoshaphat, a king noted for his piety and efforts to bring the people of Judah back to the worship of Yahweh. Jehoram married Athaliah, the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, which politically aligned Judah with the northern Kingdom of Israel. This alliance, however, introduced idolatrous practices into Judah, as Athaliah brought with her the worship of Baal.

Upon Jehoshaphat's death, Jehoram ascended to the throne. In a move to secure his position, he killed all his brothers and some of the princes of Israel, an act that was contrary to the ways of his father and displeasing to God. As recorded in 2 Chronicles 21:4 , "When Jehoram had established himself over his father’s kingdom, he strengthened himself by putting to the sword all his brothers along with some of the princes of Israel."

Reign and Religious Practices

Jehoram's reign was marked by a departure from the religious reforms of his father. Influenced by his wife Athaliah, he promoted the worship of Baal and led the people of Judah into idolatry. This apostasy provoked the anger of God, and Jehoram's reign was plagued by various calamities.

The prophet Elijah sent a letter to Jehoram, warning him of the consequences of his actions. The letter, as recorded in 2 Chronicles 21:12-15 , foretold severe judgment upon Jehoram and his household, including a painful disease that would afflict him.

Military Challenges and Downfall

During Jehoram's reign, Judah faced numerous military challenges. The Edomites revolted against Judah's rule and established their own king, as noted in 2 Kings 8:20-22 : "In the days of Jehoram, Edom rebelled against the hand of Judah and appointed their own king. So Jehoram crossed over to Zair with all his chariots. Then at night he set out to attack the Edomites who had surrounded him and his chariot commanders, but his troops fled to their tents."

Additionally, the Philistines and Arabians invaded Judah, carrying away all the possessions found in the king's house, along with his sons and wives, leaving only his youngest son, Ahaziah.

Death and Legacy

Jehoram's reign ended in tragedy, fulfilling the prophecy of Elijah. He suffered from a severe and incurable disease of the bowels, which ultimately led to his death. As recorded in 2 Chronicles 21:18-19 , "After all this, the LORD afflicted Jehoram with an incurable disease of the bowels. In the course of time, after two years had passed, his intestines came out because of his disease, and he died in severe pain."

Jehoram was not honored with a burial in the tombs of the kings, reflecting the people's disapproval of his reign. Despite his failures, Jehoram remains a part of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, as noted in the Gospel of Matthew 1:8 , which traces the lineage of Jesus through the kings of Judah, including Jehoram.

Jehoram's life serves as a somber reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the enduring impact of one's actions on future generations.Matthew 1:8
And Asa begat Josaphat; and Josaphat begat Joram; and Joram begat Ozias;
Nave's Topical Index

How did Elijah send a letter to King Jehoram, if Elijah had already been taken to heaven? | GotQuestions.org

Who was King Jehoram / Joram in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Athaliah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus