Jehoiada

Lore & Background

Jehoiada is first mentioned as the father of Benaiah, a valiant warrior who served as captain of David's bodyguard over the Cherethites and Pelethites (2 Samuel 8:18; 2 Samuel 20:23). Benaiah's exploits include slaying two lionlike men of Moab and a lion in a pit (2 Samuel 23:20; 1 Chronicles 11:22). In 1 Chronicles 27:5, Benaiah is called "a chief priest," which may reflect his father's priestly lineage. A different Jehoiada appears in 2 Kings as a priest who orchestrated the overthrow of Athaliah and the crowning of the young king Jehoash (2 Kings 11:4). He commanded the captains and guards, made a covenant between the Lord, the king, and the people, and instructed Jehoash throughout his reign (2 Kings 11:17; 2 Kings 12:2). Jehoiada also took a chest to collect money for repairing the temple (2 Kings 12:9). In 1 Kings, Benaiah the son of Jehoiada is a loyal supporter of Solomon's succession, accompanying Zadok and Nathan to anoint Solomon king (1 Kings 1:38; 1 Kings 1:44). Later, Solomon commands Benaiah to execute Joab and Shimei, and Benaiah is appointed over the host in Joab's place (1 Kings 2:25; 1 Kings 2:35; 1 Kings 2:46).

Reader's Guide

The passages portray Jehoiada primarily through his son Benaiah, who is depicted as a mighty warrior and loyal commander under David and Solomon. Benaiah's feats—killing lionlike men and a lion—highlight his valor (2 Samuel 23:20; 1 Chronicles 11:22). His role in Solomon's coronation and subsequent executions shows his reliability as an enforcer of royal commands (1 Kings 1:38; 1 Kings 2:25). The priest Jehoiada in 2 Kings is a central figure in preserving the Davidic line, acting as a guardian and mentor to young Jehoash, and reforming temple worship (2 Kings 11:4; 2 Kings 12:2). The passages do not clarify whether these are the same person, but both are associated with priestly and military leadership.

Did You Know?

• Benaiah the son of Jehoiada slew a lion in a pit on a snowy day (2 Samuel 23:20; 1 Chronicles 11:22).
• Jehoiada the priest made a covenant between the Lord, the king, and the people (2 Kings 11:17).
• Benaiah was appointed over the host of Israel after executing Joab (1 Kings 2:35).
• Jehoiada the priest instructed King Jehoash all his days (2 Kings 12:2).