Useful Bible Studies > 2 Kings Commentary > chapter 11

Joash’s palace and his throne

2 Kings 11:19-21

Jehoiada the priest placed guards at the temple, the house of God in Jerusalem (11:18). 2 Chronicles 23:18-19 shows that this was part of a much greater plan for the future of the temple. After the troubles of Athaliah’s rule, Jehoiada brought back the arrangements for prayers there that David had made (1 Chronicles chapters 23 to 26). So, Jehoiada organised the priests and other temple officials in their work.

Then, at last, he was ready to take control of the royal palace for the new king, Joash. That could have been dangerous. Athaliah’s guards were strong and fierce men who had carried out many evil acts on her behalf. So, to take the palace, Jehoiada brought with him the military commanders who supported Joash. They led the guards who had defended Joash at the temple, and a great crowd of people.

However, nobody opposed them because Athaliah was already dead. Her former supporters and guards realised that they had no leader. So, they decided to accept Joash as king.

When Joash had entered the palace, he took his place on the throne, the king’s royal seat. By that act, he showed that he had begun his rule over Judah, the southern part of Israel. He was just 7 years old.

Joash was the youngest king ever to rule in Judah or Israel. Clearly, he would have to depend much on his advisers, and especially on Jehoiada, who continued to teach him. However, the people joyfully accepted his rule. They were glad to have him as their king after the troubles of Athaliah’s rule.

Next part: King Joash of Judah (2 Kings 12:1)

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