21 verses
King Jehoash attempts to repair the Temple and fight idolatry, yet his reign ends in betrayal and death, illustrating the complex struggle for religious reform in Judah.
In the seventh year of Jehoash’s reign, he follows Jehoiada’s counsel and tries to eliminate idolatry, yet the high places persist. Jehoash directs priests to collect all money brought to the Temple and use it for repairs, but the priests delay. Jehoiada secretly collects the funds in a chest beside the altar, and the king’s officials later distribute the money to craftsmen, refraining from making silver vessels. Despite the restoration, Jehoash’s political choices lead to his downfall: he hands over the Temple’s treasures to the Syrian king Hazael, provoking the ire of conspirators in his palace. The conspirators, led by Jozachar and Jehozabad, assassinate Jehoash in the house of Millo, and his son Amaziah succeeds him. The chapter juxtaposes religious devotion with political intrigue, showing the fragility of Judah’s monarchy.
mixed
Reform efforts are positive, but betrayal and violence create a somber tone.