2 Kings 13:13 – “Jehoash rested with his ancestors, and Jeroboam succeeded him on the throne. Jehoash was buried in Samaria with the kings of Israel.”
Extended Explanation
This verse marks the end of King Jehoash’s life and reign over Israel. It uses the phrase “rested with his ancestors” to signify his death, a common expression used throughout the Bible for the passing of kings. The verse also notes that Jehoash was buried in Samaria, the capital of the northern kingdom, alongside other kings of Israel. His son, Jeroboam, succeeded him, continuing the royal line. While Jehoash’s reign included political and military actions, his death is recorded briefly, focusing on the continuation of the monarchy through his son.
Historical Context
Jehoash was a king of Israel during a period of instability and ongoing conflict, particularly with the Arameans. His reign was marked by warfare and efforts to restore some of Israel’s former strength, but he did not fully turn the people back to God. The mention of Jeroboam succeeding him refers to Jeroboam II, who would go on to have a long reign over Israel. The northern kingdom was often plagued by idolatry and disobedience to God’s commands, and this pattern continued through the generations of Israel’s kings. Samaria, where Jehoash was buried, was a city built by King Omri and served as the center of political power in the northern kingdom.
Theological Implications
This verse underscores the fleeting nature of earthly power and human leadership. Kings may rise and fall, and dynasties may continue, but ultimately, all human rulers are subject to death. Jehoash’s reign, like many others in Israel, was marked by a failure to lead the nation in wholehearted obedience to God. His death and burial, while notable, remind us that even powerful leaders cannot escape mortality. Theologically, this points to the need for a greater, eternal King—one who would lead with righteousness and never be defeated by death.
Literary Analysis
The phrase “rested with his ancestors” is a common literary expression used throughout the Bible to describe the death of kings. It emphasizes the continuity of the monarchy but also the transient nature of human life. The burial in Samaria, alongside other kings, highlights the importance of location in the ancient world, as Samaria served as the political and spiritual center for the northern kingdom. The verse functions as a transition between the reign of Jehoash and the reign of his son, Jeroboam II, pointing forward to the continuation of Israel’s history.
Biblical Cross-References
- 1 Kings 16:28 – Describes a similar ending for King Omri, who was also buried in Samaria, showing that this was the burial place for the kings of Israel.
- 2 Kings 14:16 – The account of Joash, king of Judah, who also “rested with his ancestors,” showing the commonality of this expression across both kingdoms.
- Psalm 146:3-4 – Reminds us not to put our trust in princes or human leaders because when they die, their plans come to nothing.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder that no matter how powerful or influential a person may be, death comes for everyone. Earthly leadership and accomplishments, while important in their time, are temporary. This calls believers to focus not on worldly power or legacy but on the eternal kingdom of God. We are encouraged to invest in what lasts beyond this life—our relationship with God and the work we do for His kingdom. This verse also serves as a reminder that human leaders, no matter how competent, cannot offer the ultimate security or salvation that only God can provide.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Even as earthly rulers like Jehoash come and go, God’s love and presence remain constant. God’s enduring care for His people is evident throughout Israel’s history, even when their kings failed to lead them in righteousness. The fact that God continues to allow the line of kings to continue shows His patience and desire for His people to turn back to Him. God’s love is not tied to the success or failure of human leaders, but rather to His unchanging commitment to His people. His love transcends the limitations of human power and leadership.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The death of Jehoash, like that of every other king in Israel’s history, points to the impermanence of human leadership. In contrast, Jesus Christ is the eternal King whose reign will never end. Unlike Jehoash and other kings who were subject to death, Jesus conquered death through His resurrection and now reigns forever (Revelation 1:18). He is the fulfillment of the longing for a perfect, righteous King who will lead His people into everlasting life. Jesus’ reign is not limited by time or death, offering a hope that no earthly king could provide.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does the passing of Jehoash remind us of the temporary nature of human power and leadership?
- What does this verse teach us about where we should place our ultimate hope and trust?
- How does God’s patience with Israel’s kings reflect His loving commitment to His people, even when their leaders fail?
- In what ways does Jesus provide the eternal leadership and hope that no human king could offer?