Jehoshaphat was a king of the southern kingdom of Judah, not the northern kingdom of Israel. He ruled during a time when Israel and Judah were divided. His reign was marked by faith in God, spiritual reforms, and a few costly mistakes. Let’s look at ten interesting facts about King Jehoshaphat, with supporting Bible verses.
1. Jehoshaphat Was the King of Judah
Jehoshaphat ruled over Judah, the southern kingdom, after the reign of his father Asa. He had nothing to do with ruling over Israel, the northern kingdom.
“And Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his stead, and strengthened himself against Israel.” – 2 Chronicles 17:1
2. He Followed the Example of King David
Jehoshaphat walked in the ways of David, the great king of a united Israel. But in Jehoshaphat’s day, the kingdom was split. He chose to follow the faithful example of David rather than the wicked ways of the kings of Israel.
“And the Lord was with Jehoshaphat, because he walked in the former ways of his father David... but sought the God of his father and walked in His commandments.” – 2 Chronicles 17:3-4
3. He Sent Teachers to Spread God's Word in Judah
To help his people know God better, Jehoshaphat sent officials, Levites, and priests all over Judah to teach the Book of the Law.
“So they taught in Judah, and had the Book of the Law of the Lord with them; they went throughout all the cities of Judah and taught the people.” – 2 Chronicles 17:9
4. He Strengthened Judah’s Military Defenses
Jehoshaphat built up Judah’s defenses by placing troops in cities and making Judah ready for attacks—especially from the north.
“And he placed forces in all the fenced cities of Judah, and set garrisons in the land of Judah…” – 2 Chronicles 17:2
5. He Made a Dangerous Alliance with King Ahab of Israel
Even though he was king of Judah, Jehoshaphat made a poor choice by teaming up with Ahab, the wicked king of Israel. He even arranged a marriage between his son and Ahab’s daughter.
“Now Jehoshaphat had riches and honor in abundance, and joined affinity with Ahab.” – 2 Chronicles 18:1
6. He Led Judah to Seek the Lord in Crisis
When a large enemy army marched against Judah, Jehoshaphat didn’t panic. He called the whole kingdom to fast and pray.
“And Jehoshaphat feared, and set himself to seek the Lord… and Judah gathered themselves together, to ask help of the Lord.” – 2 Chronicles 20:3-4
7. His Prayer Became a Model of Faith
Jehoshaphat’s prayer in front of the people of Judah was full of trust in God. He admitted their weakness and asked God to help.
“O our God, wilt thou not judge them? For we have no might against this great company... neither know we what to do: but our eyes are upon thee.” – 2 Chronicles 20:12
8. God Defeated Judah’s Enemies Without a Fight
Jehoshaphat trusted God, and God showed up. Instead of Judah fighting the invading armies, the enemies turned on each other and destroyed themselves.
“The Lord set ambushes against the men... and they were smitten... every one helped to destroy another.” – 2 Chronicles 20:22-23
9. He Appointed Judges to Lead Fairly
Jehoshaphat cared deeply about justice in Judah. He appointed judges and reminded them that they served the Lord first—not just the people.
“Take heed what ye do: for ye judge not for man, but for the Lord... let the fear of the Lord be upon you.” – 2 Chronicles 19:6-7
10. He Left a Godly Legacy in Judah
Jehoshaphat ruled Judah for 25 years. He made mistakes—like partnering with Israel’s wicked kings—but overall, he sought the Lord and led his kingdom well.
“And he walked in the way of Asa his father, and departed not from it, doing that which was right in the sight of the Lord.” – 2 Chronicles 20:32
