### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Yᵉhôwʼâchâz**, represented by `{{H3059}}`, means **Jehovah-seized**. It is a compound name derived from `{{H3068}}` (Jehovah) and the root `ʼâchâz` (seized). It appears **20 times** across **19 unique verses** and is the name given to three different individuals in the biblical narrative, primarily kings of Israel and Judah.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The name `{{H3059}}` is most prominently associated with two kings who reigned during periods of national crisis. Jehoahaz, son of Jehu, became **king** `{{H4428}}` of Israel and reigned from Samaria [[2 Kings 10:35]]. His rule was marked by severe military hardship, as the king of Syria **oppressed** `{{H3905}}` Israel, leaving Jehoahaz with a greatly diminished army ([[2 Kings 13:7]], [[2 Kings 13:22]]). In his distress, Jehoahaz **besought** `{{H2470}}` the Lord, who saw the **oppression** `{{H3906}}` and **hearkened** `{{H8085}}` to him [[2 Kings 13:4]]. Another figure, Jehoahaz son of Josiah, was made king over Judah by the people of the land after his father's death, who **anointed** `{{H4886}}` him [[2 Kings 23:30]]. His reign was brief, as he was taken to Egypt by Pharaohnechoh and died there [[2 Kings 23:34]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the events surrounding the individuals named `{{H3059}}`:
* `{{H4427}}` **mâlak** (to reign): This verb is central to the identity of Jehoahaz, son of Jehu, who "began to **reign**" over Israel [[2 Kings 13:1]], and Jehoahaz, son of Josiah, who was "made him **king**" in Jerusalem [[2 Chronicles 36:1]].
* `{{H3906}}` **lachats** (distress; affliction, oppression): This noun describes the suffering of Israel under Jehoahaz, which prompted him to pray. The Lord saw the **oppression** of Israel at the hands of the Syrians [[2 Kings 13:4]].
* `{{H2470}}` **châlâh** (to be weak, sick, afflicted; or ... to entreat): This term captures the response of King Jehoahaz of Israel to his nation's suffering, as he "**besought** the LORD" for deliverance [[2 Kings 13:4]].
* `{{H3068}}` **Yᵉhôvâh** (Jehovah, the Lord): As part of the name itself, this word is central. It is to **Jehovah** that King Jehoahaz prays, and it is **Jehovah** who hears him [[2 Kings 13:4]].
* `{{H4886}}` **mâshach** (to rub with oil, i.e. to anoint): This action signifies the setting apart of a king. The people of the land took Jehoahaz son of Josiah and "**anointed** him" to be their new ruler [[2 Kings 23:30]].
### Theological Significance
The accounts of those named `{{H3059}}` carry significant weight in the narrative of Israel and Judah.
* **Royal Succession:** The name consistently appears at points of royal transition. Jehoahaz son of Jehu "reigned in his stead" [[2 Kings 10:35]], and Jehoahaz son of Josiah was made king "in his father's stead" [[2 Chronicles 36:1]], highlighting the continuity and vulnerability of the monarchy.
* **Divine Intervention in Oppression:** The story of Jehoahaz of Israel demonstrates that even during periods of judgment and weakness, God responds to sincere pleas. When Jehoahaz **besought** `{{H2470}}` the Lord, the Lord **hearkened** `{{H8085}}` because He saw the nation's suffering [[2 Kings 13:4]].
* **Consequences of National Weakness:** The fates of the kings named Jehoahaz reflect the political turmoil of their times. One was severely weakened by the Syrian army [[2 Kings 13:7]], while the other was captured and exiled by the king of Egypt [[2 Kings 23:34]], illustrating the consequences of foreign domination.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3059}}` is more than just a name; it is a marker of critical moments in the history of Israel's and Judah's monarchies. The name **Yᵉhôwʼâchâz**, meaning "Jehovah-seized," is attached to leaders who faced being seized by foreign enemies and overwhelming circumstances. Their stories serve as powerful illustrations of royal succession, the impact of foreign oppression, and the potential for divine deliverance in response to prayer.
TRV