2 Kings 12:20

KJV

And his servants arose, and made a conspiracy, and slew Joash in the house of Millo, which goeth down to Silla.

KJV (with Strong's)

And his servants {H5650} arose {H6965}, and made {H7194} a conspiracy {H7195}, and slew {H5221} Joash {H3101} in the house {H1004} of Millo {H4407}{H1037}, which goeth down {H3381} to Silla {H5538}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then his servants got together, formed a conspiracy and murdered Yo'ash at Beit-Millo on the way down to Sila.

Berean Standard Bible

And the servants of Joash rose up and formed a conspiracy and killed him at Beth-millo, on the road down to Silla.

American Standard Version

And his servants arose, and made a conspiracy, and smote Joash at the house of Millo, on the way that goeth down to Silla.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Kings 12:20 records the tragic and violent assassination of King Joash of Judah by his own servants. This pivotal event marks the end of a reign that began with great promise under the guidance of the faithful priest Jehoiada but ultimately devolved into apostasy and cruelty after Jehoiada's death. The verse highlights the severe consequences of Joash's unfaithfulness to God, serving as a stark reminder of divine judgment and the accountability of even the most powerful leaders.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse concludes the narrative of Joash's reign, which began dramatically in [2 Kings 11](/2_kings/11 "2 Kings 11 - Joash Becomes King") with his rescue from Athaliah's purge and his coronation by Jehoiada. Chapter 12 initially portrays Joash as a righteous king, diligently overseeing the repair of the Temple of the Lord ([2 Kings 12:4-16](/2_kings/12-4 "2 Kings 12:4-16 - Joash Repairs the Temple")). However, the narrative in [2 Chronicles 24](/2_chronicles/24 "2 Chronicles 24 - Joash's Reign and Apostasy") provides crucial additional details, revealing that after Jehoiada's death, Joash turned away from God, listened to corrupt officials, and even sanctioned the murder of Zechariah, Jehoiada's son, who rebuked him ([2 Chronicles 24:17-22](/2_chronicles/24-17 "2 Chronicles 24:17-22 - Joash's Apostasy and Zechariah's Death")). The immediate preceding verses in 2 Kings 12 describe Joash's defeat by the Arameans and his subsequent illness, setting the stage for the conspiracy. Thus, 2 Kings 12:20 serves as the culmination of Joash's spiritual decline and the divine judgment that followed.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** King Joash (also known as Jehoash) reigned in Judah for 40 years, from approximately 835-796 BC. He ascended the throne at the tender age of seven, having been hidden for six years from the murderous Queen Athaliah, his grandmother, who sought to destroy all the royal seed ([2 Kings 11:1-3](/2_kings/11-1 "2 Kings 11:1-3 - Athaliah's Usurpation")). His early reign was marked by a return to Yahweh worship and significant Temple restoration efforts, reflecting the influence of Jehoiada, the high priest. The "house of Millo" refers to a prominent fortified structure or complex within Jerusalem, likely part of the city's defenses, possibly a citadel or rampart, known from other biblical texts (e.g., [2 Samuel 5:9](/2_samuel/5-9 "2 Samuel 5:9 - David Builds the Millo")). "Silla" is a more obscure geographical reference, possibly indicating a specific path, descent, or gate near the Millo. The specificity of the location suggests that the assassination, though a conspiracy, occurred in a well-known, perhaps even public, part of the royal complex, underscoring the audacity and internal nature of the coup. Assassinations of kings by their own servants or military leaders were not uncommon in the ancient Near East, often driven by political ambition, discontent, or perceived weakness.
* **Key Themes:** The narrative of Joash's reign, culminating in this verse, powerfully illustrates several recurring biblical themes. Foremost is the **consequences of apostasy**, demonstrating that even a king who begins with faithfulness can fall dramatically when he abandons God and godly counsel. Joash's turning away from the Lord after Jehoiada's death directly precipitates his downfall, emphasizing the principle that "righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people" ([Proverbs 14:34](/proverbs/14-34 "Proverbs 14:34 - Righteousness Exalts a Nation")). This event also underscores the theme of **divine judgment**, as the assassination, though carried out by human agents, is presented in the broader biblical narrative as a direct consequence of Joash's unfaithfulness and particularly his shedding of innocent blood ([2 Chronicles 24:22-24](/2_chronicles/24-22 "2 Chronicles 24:22-24 - Zechariah's Martyrdom and Joash's Judgment")). Furthermore, the account highlights the **accountability of leadership**, showing that even kings are not above God's law and are held responsible for their actions, especially their spiritual leadership. Finally, the conspiracy itself speaks to the dark theme of **human treachery and betrayal**, revealing how ambition, discontent, and a lack of moral compass can lead to violent and destructive ends, particularly in the corridors of power.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Conspiracy (Hebrew, _qesher_):** This noun refers to a "binding together," "confederacy," or "plot." It implies a deliberate, organized, and often secret agreement among individuals to overthrow an authority or achieve a nefarious goal. The use of this word emphasizes that Joash's death was not a random act of violence but a premeditated and coordinated effort by those closest to him, highlighting the depth of betrayal and the internal rot within his court.
* **Slew (Hebrew, _vayyakku_, from _nakah_):** The verb _nakah_ means "to strike," "to hit," or "to kill." The Piel stem, as used here, often denotes a violent and decisive striking, leading to death. The directness of the verb conveys the brutal and final nature of the act. It is not merely that Joash died, but that he was violently "struck down" or "murdered," underscoring the severity and finality of the judgment against him.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And his servants arose, and made a conspiracy,"**: This clause immediately establishes the agency and the nature of the act. "His servants" indicates an internal betrayal, suggesting deep-seated discontent or ambition within the royal household. The phrase "arose" (וַיָּקֻמוּ, _vayyaqumu_) implies a decisive and active movement, not a passive event. The "conspiracy" (קֶשֶׁר, _qesher_) signifies a deliberate, organized plot, underscoring the premeditated nature of the regicide. This was not a spontaneous uprising but a carefully planned coup.
* **"and slew Joash"**: This is the stark, central action of the verse. It directly states the outcome of the conspiracy: the murder of the king. The use of "slew" (וַיַּכּוּ, _vayyakku_) emphasizes the violent and decisive nature of his death, leaving no ambiguity about the regicide. This act brings a violent end to a reign that had tragically veered from its initial righteous path.
* **"in the house of Millo, which goeth down to Silla."**: This specific geographical detail grounds the event in a tangible location within Jerusalem. The "house of Millo" was a known fortified area or citadel, suggesting that the assassination occurred within the royal complex or a strategically important defensive structure. "Silla" further pinpoints the location, possibly a specific path or descent associated with the Millo. The precision of the location adds historical veracity to the account and indicates that the event was a known, perhaps even public, act within the royal precincts, not a hidden crime.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its powerful message. **Irony** is prominent, as Joash, who was miraculously saved from death as an infant and placed on the throne by the faithful Jehoiada, is ultimately brought to a violent end by his own trusted servants. This contrasts sharply with his promising beginning. The narrative also utilizes **specificity of detail** by naming "the house of Millo" and "Silla," which lends a sense of historical authenticity and realism to the account, making the event tangible and memorable. Furthermore, the verse functions as a powerful moment of **divine judgment** within the broader narrative. While human agents carry out the act, the preceding context, especially in 2 Chronicles, frames Joash's death as a direct consequence of his apostasy and the murder of Zechariah, Jehoiada's son. This implies a **cause-and-effect structure**, where Joash's unfaithfulness directly leads to his violent demise, serving as a cautionary tale for future kings and readers.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The assassination of King Joash in 2 Kings 12:20 serves as a profound theological statement on the consequences of spiritual declension and the unwavering principle of divine justice. Joash's story is a tragic illustration that a good beginning does not guarantee a good end; sustained faithfulness and adherence to God's covenant are paramount. His turning away from the Lord after the death of his mentor, Jehoiada, led to idolatry and even the murder of a prophet, Zechariah. This act of regicide, though carried out by human hands, is presented as a direct consequence of his sin, a form of divine judgment for his apostasy and the shedding of innocent blood. It underscores that no one, not even a king, is exempt from God's moral law and the repercussions of unrighteousness. The narrative highlights the importance of consistent obedience, godly counsel, and the severe spiritual and temporal consequences of abandoning the Lord.

* [2 Chronicles 24:20-22](/2_chronicles/24-20 "2 Chronicles 24:20-22 - Zechariah's Prophecy and Martyrdom") - Parallel account explicitly links Zechariah's murder to Joash's subsequent judgment.
* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Proverbs 16:18 - Pride Goes Before a Fall") - "Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall," reflecting Joash's descent from humility to arrogance and unfaithfulness.
* [Galatians 6:7-8](/galatians/6-7 "Galatians 6:7-8 - Sowing and Reaping") - "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The tragic end of King Joash in 2 Kings 12:20 offers enduring spiritual lessons for believers today. His story is a powerful reminder that initial zeal and promising beginnings are not sufficient; sustained faithfulness, perseverance in obedience, and a lifelong commitment to God's truth are essential. Joash's downfall illustrates the critical importance of godly influence and accountability. Once Jehoiada, his spiritual mentor, passed away, Joash quickly succumbed to corrupt counsel and abandoned the Lord, demonstrating how easily even those in positions of power can be led astray without consistent spiritual grounding and wise guidance. This narrative calls us to continually examine our hearts, remain vigilant against the subtle allure of sin, and actively seek out and submit to wise, biblical counsel throughout our lives. It also underscores the sobering reality that our choices, especially those in leadership, have far-reaching consequences, not only for ourselves but for those we influence. Ultimately, Joash's story is a solemn warning to cultivate a deep, personal, and unwavering walk with God, independent of external circumstances or human mentors, ensuring that our faith is rooted in Christ alone.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What external influences or internal temptations might cause me to drift from my initial commitment to Christ, much like Joash drifted after Jehoiada's death?**
* **How can I ensure that my faith is not merely dependent on external mentors or circumstances, but is deeply rooted in a personal and consistent relationship with God?**
* **In what areas of my life, especially where I have influence or leadership, do I need to be particularly vigilant against the temptation to compromise or turn away from God's standards?**

### FAQ
**Was Joash's assassination truly divine judgment, or merely a political coup?**

Answer: While the assassination of Joash was carried out by human agents motivated by political discontent or personal grievances, the broader biblical narrative, particularly in [2 Chronicles 24](/2_chronicles/24 "2 Chronicles 24 - Joash's Reign"), presents it as a clear act of divine judgment. After the death of Jehoiada, Joash turned away from the Lord, embraced idolatry, and most significantly, allowed the murder of Zechariah, Jehoiada's son, who rebuked him for his apostasy ([2 Chronicles 24:17-22](/2_chronicles/24-17 "2 Chronicles 24:17-22 - Joash's Apostasy and Zechariah's Death")). Zechariah's dying words, "The Lord look upon it, and require it," are immediately followed by an Aramean invasion and Joash's subsequent illness, culminating in his assassination. The biblical authors frequently interpret historical events through a theological lens, seeing God's hand at work in the rise and fall of kings and nations, especially in response to their faithfulness or unfaithfulness to the covenant. Therefore, while human actors were involved, the biblical perspective is that God "required" Joash's sin, using the conspiracy as an instrument of His righteous judgment.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The tragic narrative of King Joash, culminating in his assassination, stands in stark contrast to the perfect reign and ultimate destiny of Jesus Christ. Joash, though beginning his reign under godly influence, ultimately succumbed to unfaithfulness, leading to his violent overthrow by his own servants. This highlights the inherent fallibility of human kings and the devastating consequences of sin. In contrast, Jesus is the perfectly faithful King, the true Son of David, whose reign is eternal and unshakeable ([Luke 1:32-33](/luke/1-32 "Luke 1:32-33 - The Eternal Reign of Jesus")). While Joash was betrayed by his servants due to his own apostasy, Christ was also betrayed by one of His own, Judas Iscariot ([Matthew 26:47-50](/matthew/26-47 "Matthew 26:47-50 - The Betrayal of Jesus")), but this betrayal was not a consequence of His sin, but rather a preordained act that led to His sacrificial death for the sins of humanity ([Isaiah 53:5-6](/isaiah/53-5 "Isaiah 53:5-6 - The Suffering Servant")). Joash's death was a judgment *upon* him for his unrighteousness; Christ's death was a judgment *for* us, absorbing the wrath we deserved ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love")). Unlike Joash, who died in a fortified palace, Christ willingly laid down His life outside the city gates, demonstrating perfect obedience to His Father's will ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience and Humility")). Ultimately, Joash's story underscores the need for a King who is not only righteous but also perfectly faithful and incapable of falling—a King found only in Jesus, who reigns forever and ever ([Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Becomes the Kingdom of Our Lord")).

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

2 Chronicles 24:24

For the army of the Syrians came with a small company of men, and the LORD delivered a very great host into their hand, because they had forsaken the LORD God of their fathers. So they executed judgment against Joash.

2 Chronicles 24:27

Now [concerning] his sons, and the greatness of the burdens [laid] upon him, and the repairing of the house of God, behold, they [are] written in the story of the book of the kings. And Amaziah his son reigned in his stead.

2 Kings 14:5

And it came to pass, as soon as the kingdom was confirmed in his hand, that he slew his servants which had slain the king his father.

Judges 9:6

And all the men of Shechem gathered together, and all the house of Millo, and went, and made Abimelech king, by the plain of the pillar that [was] in Shechem.

2 Samuel 5:9

So David dwelt in the fort, and called it the city of David. And David built round about from Millo and inward.

1 Kings 11:27

And this [was] the cause that he lifted up [his] hand against the king: Solomon built Millo, [and] repaired the breaches of the city of David his father.

2 Chronicles 33:24

And his servants conspired against him, and slew him in his own house.