Book of 2 Kings - Chapter 12 - Verse 1

This verse from 2 Kings 12:1 provides important historical information about the reign of King Jehoash, also known as Joash, in Jerusalem. It highlights the beginning of his rule in the seventh year of King Jehu's reign and his forty-year reign in the city. The mention of his mother's name, Zibiah of Beersheba, serves to provide additional context about his lineage and background. In the Bible, naming the mother of a king was significant as it emphasized the royal line and the legitimacy of the monarch's rule. Zibiah's origin from Beersheba, a significant city in the southern region of ancient Israel, also adds a geographical aspect to the verse. Overall, this verse sets the stage for the reign of King Jehoash and provides readers with valuable details to better understand the historical context of his rule in Jerusalem.

When examining the theological interpretation of the verse where Jehoash begins to reign in the seventh year of Jehu and reigns for forty years in Jerusalem, it is important to consider the significance of the number seven in Scripture. The number seven often represents completion, perfection, and rest. In this context, the fact that Jehoash begins his reign in the seventh year of Jehu may symbolize a new beginning or a time of fulfillment in God's plan for Israel. Additionally, the forty-year reign of Jehoash may parallel the forty years of wandering in the wilderness by the Israelites, signifying a period of testing and preparation for the nation under his leadership.

Furthermore, a word study of the name Zibiah, the mother of Jehoash, reveals that her name means "deer" or "gazelle." In the Bible, the deer is often associated with grace, beauty, and swiftness. This symbolism may suggest that Zibiah was a woman of virtue and strength, qualities that may have influenced her son's reign as king. Additionally, the fact that Zibiah is from Beersheba, a city in the southern part of Judah, may also hold significance as Beersheba was a place of strategic importance in biblical history, often symbolizing divine covenant and blessing.