Asbury Bible Commentary – L. Jeroboam II Reigns Over Israel (14:23-29)
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L. Jeroboam II Reigns Over Israel (14:23-29)

L. Jeroboam II Reigns Over Israel (14:23-29)

Though dismissed with but a few verses, Jehoash’s successor, Jeroboam II, ruled Israel with considerable skill and strength. According to 14:25, he fulfilled the prophet Jonah’s predictions by extending his kingdom’s borders well beyond their present limits, and he was even able to capture Damascus (v.28). Yet he too draws somewhat conflicting reviews. On the basis of 14:27, Jeroboam II was seen as a bit of a savior, no doubt for freeing Israel from Syrian oppression. The prophet Amos, however, levels a scathing attack against him because of internal wickedness. More specifically, Amos accuses him of social injustice (Am 2:6-8). While Jeroboam II’s reign was characterized by remarkable prosperity, a large percentage of the population never reaped the benefit and in fact suffered as a result of it.