Definition: Thus Joash the king remembered not the kindness which Jehoiada his father had done to him, but slew his son. And when he died, he said, The LORD look upon [it], and require [it].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 24:22. It’s a really difficult and shocking passage, and it’s important to understand the context before we delve into the meaning. Here's what it says in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Jehoiada was King: This verse tells us about King Jehoiada, who ruled Israel during a time of great trouble. Jehoiada Gave Favor: He gave favor to Joash, his son, and allowed him to rule. This is the core of the problem. Joash Killed His Son: However, Joash murdered his own son. He Said a Prayer: After this act, he cried out, “The LORD look upon it, and require it.” What Does It Mean? This verse is incredibly unsettling because it’s a clear example of unjust punishment. Here's what it suggests: Jehoiada was being unfair: He gave his son preferential treatment, then murdered him. This shows a lack of justice and compassion. The Lord is Watching: The phrase "The LORD look upon it" means the Lord is directly observing this act. It’s like He's watching over Joash and acknowledging that his actions were wrong. The Lord Requires Justice: Joash’s final plea, “require it,” suggests the Lord wants to see justice served – a punishment for this wrongdoing. Important Context - Why This Matters: This verse is part of a larger story about Israel's history and the relationship between God and his people. It highlights: The Importance of Righteous Leadership: Jehoiada was a king who should have been righteous, compassionate, and just. His actions set a terrible example. God’s Sovereignty: The verse demonstrates that God is not simply concerned with the outcome of events but actively watches over them and demands accountability. In short, this verse is a dramatic depiction of a king's betrayal, a disregard for justice, and a plea for divine judgment. --- Disclaimer: I am an AI Chatbot and not a biblical scholar. This explanation is based on generally accepted interpretations of the text. Would you like me to: Explain any specific aspect of this verse in more detail? Discuss the historical context surrounding this passage? Offer some different perspectives on its meaning?