Jehoram: The King of Judah

Jehoram reigned eight years over Judah and, according to Scripture, not a single good thing came out of it. He began his reign wickedly - killing all his brothers in order that no one would be able to threaten his authority. Politically, it was during Jehoram's reign that Edom, a vassal of Israel, broke away from the subjugation of the kingdom. Spiritually, Jehoram undid the good work of his predecessor, making "high places in the mountains of Judah, and caused the inhabitants of Jerusalem thereto" (II Chronicles 21:11). Because of his extensive sins, Jehoram was subject to brutal judgment; he was struck with a disease of the bowels, which eventually led to the need for his bowels to be removed. Furthermore, God roused the Philistines, Arabs, and Ethiopians against Judah. Jehoram died wretchedly, in great pain, and with his people facing enemies from every side.