Table of Contents
King Joash of Judah
King Joash of Judah died under tragic circumstances. He was assassinated by his own officials or servants, Zabad and Jehozabad, in the year 835 BCE. Joash had reigned for forty years, starting when he was only seven years old. He succeeded his grandmother Athaliah and during his reign, he made significant reforms to the temple and implemented justice reforms. However, towards the end of his reign, he fell under the influence of corrupt officials who led him astray. Eventually, two of his officials conspired against him and succeeded in taking his life to avenge the death of Prophet Zechariah whom Jehoash killed. (2 Kings 12:19-21; 2 Chronicles 24:23-27)
King Amaziah
King Amaziah, king of Judah, was the son and successor of Joash of Judah. He met his demise in a tragic turn of events. His reign, which lasted for twenty-nine years, came to an abrupt end when he was assassinated in the city of Lachish. The circumstances surrounding his death was that his servants (officials) made a conspiracy against him in Jerusalem, and he ran off to Lachish, but he was pursued to Lachish and killed there. His body was brought back on horses and was buried in Jerusalem alongside his ancestors in the City of David. (2 Kings 14:17-20)
King Amon
King Amon was the fifteenth king of Judah, succeeding his father King Manasseh. His reign was short-lived, as he was assassinated in his own house by a group of conspirators composed of his own servants or officials. Amon was known for his idolatrous practices, which led to a revolt against him and eventually to his assassination. The Bible has harsh words for Amon, describing him as a wicked king who did evil in the eyes of the Lord, following in the footsteps of his father Manasseh. He died just 2 years into his reign and was succeeded by his son Josiah. (2 Kings 21:19-26)
Conclusion
The deaths of King Joash, King Amaziah, and King Amon had historical significance. Though King Joash and King Amaziah did some good things, their reign was tainted by unfaithfulness to the Lord, which led to their downfall and death. King Amon’s assassination reflected the political instability and turmoil in Judah during this time, with the conspirators being killed by the people in revenge for their actions. The deaths of these three kings highlight the complex political and religious landscape of ancient Israel and Judah, providing insight into the challenges faced by their rulers and the impact of their decisions on their respective kingdoms.