2 CHRONICLES 22

AHAZIAH + ATHALIAH REIGN IN JUDAH

Jehoram’s only living son, Ahaziah (also called Jehoahaz), becomes the king over Judah.

Ahaziah’s mother, Athaliah, raises him in wickedness, training him to be deceitful and evil.

Ahaziah visits with Joram, king of Israel. There, God has given permission to a man named Jehu to bring destruction upon Ahab’s living lineage. Because Jehoram married Ahab’s daughter, Ahaziah is included in this legacy and is killed by Jehu.

When Athaliah sees that her son Ahaziah is dead, she takes over the throne, serving as the Queen over Judah. Athaliah, in her wickedness, slaughters her entire family including her children and grandchildren. Unknown to Athaliah, Ahaziah’s sister Jehosheba saves one of the Ahaziah’s children, Joash, and hides him in safety.

(Note: There are two Jehorams and two Ahaziahs mentioned in Kings + Chronicles)