2 Chronicles 23:11

KJV

Then they brought out the king's son, and put upon him the crown, and [gave him] the testimony, and made him king. And Jehoiada and his sons anointed him, and said, God save the king.

KJV (with Strong's)

Then they brought out {H3318} the king's {H4428} son {H1121}, and put {H5414} upon him the crown {H5145}, and gave him the testimony {H5715}, and made him king {H4427}. And Jehoiada {H3077} and his sons {H1121} anointed {H4886} him, and said {H559}, God save {H2421} the king {H4428}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then they brought out the king's son, crowned him, gave him [a copy of] the testimony and thus made him king. Y'hoyada and his sons anointed him, and they shouted, "Long live the king!"

Berean Standard Bible

Then Jehoiada and his sons brought out the king’s son, put the crown on him, presented him with the Testimony, and proclaimed him king. They anointed him and shouted, “Long live the king!”

American Standard Version

Then they brought out the king’s son, and put the crown upon him, and gave him the testimony, and made him king: and Jehoiada and his sons anointed him; and they said, Long live the king.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Chronicles 23:11 narrates the climactic moment of Joash's coronation, a pivotal event orchestrated by Jehoiada the priest to restore the legitimate Davidic monarchy in Judah after years of usurpation by the wicked queen Athaliah. This verse describes the public unveiling of the young king, the symbolic presentation of the crown and "testimony" (the Law), his anointing by Jehoiada and his sons, and the acclamation of the people, signifying the re-establishment of God's covenant faithfulness and righteous rule.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the culmination of a dramatic narrative arc beginning in 2 Chronicles 22, detailing the death of King Ahaziah and the subsequent tyrannical reign of his mother, Athaliah, who ruthlessly murdered all the royal offspring to secure her power. Unbeknownst to her, Ahaziah's infant son, Joash, was secretly rescued by Jehoiada's wife, Jehosheba, and hidden in the Temple for six years. Chapter 23 describes Jehoiada's meticulous planning and execution of a coup, involving the Levites, priests, and military commanders, culminating in the public revelation and coronation of Joash within the sacred precincts of the Temple. This verse, therefore, marks the triumphant restoration of the Davidic line, immediately preceding Athaliah's swift execution and the subsequent reforms under Joash's early reign.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period described is late 9th century BCE Judah. Athaliah's reign (c. 841-835 BCE) was a significant deviation from the norm, as she was the only queen to rule Judah, and her rule was characterized by idolatry (promoting Baal worship) and a brutal disregard for the Davidic covenant. The Temple, where Joash was hidden and crowned, was not merely a religious structure but also a symbol of God's presence and covenant with Israel, and a place of refuge. The coronation ritual itself, involving the crown, the "testimony," and anointing, was deeply rooted in ancient Near Eastern and Israelite traditions, signifying divine appointment and legitimacy. The acclamation "God save the king" was a standard expression of loyalty and a prayer for the monarch's well-being and longevity.
* **Key Themes:** 2 Chronicles 23:11 powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes found throughout the books of Chronicles and the broader Old Testament. Firstly, it underscores God's **unwavering faithfulness to His covenant with David**, promising an enduring dynasty, even when human wickedness threatens to extinguish it (as seen in [2 Samuel 7:16](/2_samuel/7-16 "2 Samuel 7:16 - God's Covenant with David")). Secondly, it highlights the **importance of legitimate succession and divine order** in leadership, contrasting Joash's divinely sanctioned rule with Athaliah's illegitimate usurpation. Thirdly, the central role of Jehoiada the priest emphasizes the **significant influence of spiritual authority** in affirming and guiding the king's rule, ensuring its alignment with God's will. Finally, the presentation of "the testimony" stresses the **king's accountability to God's Law**, a foundational principle for righteous kingship in Israel, as outlined in [Deuteronomy 17:18-20](/deuteronomy/17-18 "Deuteronomy 17:18-20 - The King's Responsibility to the Law").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Testimony (Hebrew, _'edut'_):** This term (עֵדוּת) is crucial. It refers not merely to a witness or evidence, but specifically to the covenant stipulations, the divine Law, or even the tablets of the Ten Commandments themselves, which were kept in the Ark of the Covenant (Exodus 25:16, 21; 31:18). Presenting "the testimony" to the king symbolized that his rule was to be governed by divine law and covenant, not by his own arbitrary will or human whim. It was a tangible reminder of his accountability to God and the foundational principles upon which his kingdom was to operate. This act underscored the theological principle that the king was God's vice-regent, bound by God's decrees.
* **Anointed (Hebrew, _mashach'_):** The verb (מָשַׁח) signifies the act of consecrating or setting apart someone for a holy office through the application of oil. From this root, the title "Messiah" (meaning "Anointed One") derives. In ancient Israel, priests, prophets, and kings were anointed, signifying divine appointment, empowerment, and the impartation of God's Spirit for their designated role. Jehoiada and his sons anointing Joash was a solemn ritual that invoked divine blessing and legitimized his claim to the throne, setting him apart as consecrated to God for his royal office.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then they brought out the king's son,"**: This marks the dramatic unveiling of young Joash, who had been hidden for six years. "They" refers to Jehoiada and his loyal conspirators—the Levites, priests, and military commanders—who had sworn an oath to protect the rightful heir. This public presentation within the Temple precincts was a bold declaration against Athaliah's illegitimate rule and a powerful symbol of the restoration of divine order.
* **"and put upon him the crown,"**: The crown (נֵזֶר, _nezer_) was the visible symbol of royal authority, sovereignty, and legitimate kingship. Placing it upon Joash's head formally invested him with the office of king, signifying his rightful claim to the throne of Judah as a descendant of David.
* **"and [gave him] the testimony,"**: As discussed in "Key Word Analysis," this refers to the Law or covenant stipulations. This act was a profound theological statement, signifying that the king's authority was not absolute but subordinate to God's Law. It served as a constant reminder that he was to rule justly, according to divine principles, and uphold the covenant between God and His people.
* **"and made him king."**: This phrase formally declares Joash's accession to the throne. It is the declarative act that solidifies the coronation, confirming his status as the divinely appointed monarch of Judah.
* **"And Jehoiada and his sons anointed him,"**: This ritual act, performed by the high priest and his priestly lineage, was essential for the king's legitimacy and divine sanction. It signified Joash's consecration to God for his royal duties, invoking divine blessing and empowerment for his reign. It also underscored the crucial role of the priesthood in affirming and upholding the Davidic monarchy.
* **"and said, God save the king."**: This acclamation (יְחִי הַמֶּלֶךְ, _yehi ha-melech_) was a traditional cry of loyalty and a prayer for the king's long life, prosperity, and divine protection. It represented the public's acceptance and fervent desire for God's blessing upon their new, legitimate ruler, contrasting sharply with the silence or fear that must have characterized Athaliah's reign.

#### Literary Devices
The narrative of 2 Chronicles 23:11 is rich with **Symbolism**. The **crown** symbolizes legitimate royal authority and the Davidic covenant. The **testimony** (Law) symbolizes the divine basis of righteous rule and the king's accountability to God. The act of **anointing** symbolizes divine appointment and consecration. The **Temple** itself serves as a powerful symbol of God's presence, covenant faithfulness, and the sacred space where divine order is restored. There is also a strong sense of **Dramatic Irony** throughout the preceding narrative, as Athaliah believes she has eradicated the Davidic line, unaware that the rightful heir is hidden in the very Temple she despises. The sudden revelation of Joash, after six years of secrecy, creates a powerful **Climax**, marking the turning point from tyranny to legitimate rule.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Chronicles 23:11 is a profound testament to God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, particularly the Davidic covenant, even in the face of human rebellion and apparent defeat. It demonstrates that God's plans for His people and His chosen lineage will ultimately prevail, regardless of the chaotic circumstances or the wickedness of human rulers. The restoration of Joash to the throne, guided by the faithful priest Jehoiada, underscores the divine order for leadership—a rule founded on God's Law and consecrated by His anointing, serving as a beacon of hope for a people who had experienced tyranny and idolatry. This event reaffirms that true authority flows from God and is exercised in accordance with His righteous standards.

* [2 Samuel 7:16](/2_samuel/7-16 "God's Covenant with David")
* [Deuteronomy 17:18-20](/deuteronomy/17-18 "The King's Responsibility to the Law")
* [Psalm 89:3-4](/psalms/89-3 "God's Covenant with David")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The coronation of Joash in 2 Chronicles 23:11 offers timeless lessons for believers today. It reminds us of God's sovereign control over history and His unwavering commitment to His promises, even when circumstances seem dire or when evil appears to triumph. Just as God preserved the Davidic line through a hidden child, He continues to work in unseen ways, bringing about His purposes. This narrative also challenges us to consider the nature of true leadership: it is not about power or self-interest, but about accountability to a higher authority and a commitment to divine principles of justice and righteousness. As individuals, we are called to embody these principles in our spheres of influence, whether in our families, workplaces, or communities. Furthermore, the role of Jehoiada highlights the importance of spiritual courage and wisdom in upholding truth and divine order, even in the face of significant opposition. We are called to be faithful stewards of the "testimony"—God's Word—allowing it to shape our lives and guide our actions.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the story of Joash's preservation and coronation strengthen your faith in God's faithfulness to His promises, even when circumstances seem hopeless?**
* **In what ways does the presentation of "the testimony" to King Joash inform your understanding of accountability, both for leaders and for yourself, in living according to God's Word?**
* **What role do you believe spiritual leaders should play in upholding truth and justice in society, drawing inspiration from Jehoiada's actions?**
* **How can you, as a believer, live out your "anointing" by the Holy Spirit in your daily life, serving God's kingdom with the gifts and responsibilities He has entrusted to you?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "the testimony" being given to the king?**

Answer: The giving of "the testimony" (Hebrew: _'edut'_) to King Joash was profoundly significant. It symbolized that his rule was not absolute or arbitrary, but was to be entirely subordinate to and governed by God's divine Law and covenant. In ancient Israel, "the testimony" often referred to the tablets of the Ten Commandments or the broader covenant stipulations, which were the very foundation of God's relationship with His people. By receiving it, Joash was being reminded that he was God's vice-regent, called to rule justly and righteously according to God's standards, not his own. This act was a powerful visual and theological statement of the king's accountability to God's Word, a principle outlined for future kings in [Deuteronomy 17:18-20](/deuteronomy/17-18 "Deuteronomy 17:18-20 - The King's Responsibility to the Law").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The dramatic restoration of Joash, a hidden Davidic heir, to the throne of Judah in 2 Chronicles 23:11 powerfully foreshadows the ultimate Davidic King, Jesus Christ. Like Joash, who was miraculously preserved from death and hidden before his revelation, Jesus, the true Son of David, came into the world in humble obscurity, escaping the murderous decree of Herod (Matthew 2:13-15). He is the "Anointed One" (Messiah/Christ), consecrated by God not with oil, but with the Holy Spirit for His eternal reign (Acts 10:38). While Joash was given "the testimony" (the Law) to rule by, Jesus perfectly embodies and fulfills the Law, declaring that He came not to abolish it but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17). His kingship is not merely earthly but heavenly, eternal, and universal, as prophesied in [Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32 "Luke 1:32-33 - The Angel Gabriel's Prophecy to Mary"). The acclamation "God save the king" finds its ultimate echo in the worship of Christ, the [King of kings and Lord of lords](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - Jesus, King of Kings"), whose reign brings salvation and justice to all who believe. Joash's coronation was a temporary restoration of a human kingdom; Christ's enthronement inaugurates an everlasting kingdom of righteousness and peace, providing the true and ultimate fulfillment of God's covenant with David.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Samuel 10:24

And Samuel said to all the people, See ye him whom the LORD hath chosen, that [there is] none like him among all the people? And all the people shouted, and said, God save the king.

Exodus 25:16

And thou shalt put into the ark the testimony which I shall give thee.

2 Kings 11:12

And he brought forth the king's son, and put the crown upon him, and [gave him] the testimony; and they made him king, and anointed him; and they clapped their hands, and said, God save the king.

Isaiah 8:16

¶ Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples.

Revelation 4:10

The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying,

Psalms 21:3

For thou preventest him with the blessings of goodness: thou settest a crown of pure gold on his head.

1 Kings 1:39

And Zadok the priest took an horn of oil out of the tabernacle, and anointed Solomon. And they blew the trumpet; and all the people said, God save king Solomon.