Zechariah Ben Jehoiada was the son or grandson of Jehoiada, the high priest in the times of Ahaziah and Jehoash (Joash). After the death of Jehoiada, Zechariah boldly condemned both king Jehoash and the people for their rebellion against God (2 Chronicles 24:20). This so stirred up their resentment against him that at the king's commandment they stoned him, and he died "in the court of the house of the Lord" (24:21).
Monument
According to Jewish tradition, an ancient monument in the Kidron Valley outside the Old City of Jerusalem is identified as the tomb of Zechariah.
Possible allusion by Jesus
It is possible that this is the Zechariah whose murder Jesus alluded to in Matthew 23:35, Luke 11:50-51. The Gospel of Matthew records his name as "Zechariah son of Berechiah". This identification can be reconciled if Jehoiada was Zechariah's grandfather, and Berechiah his father; or if Berechiah was another name for Jehoiada. There are other possible identifications for the person Jesus was referring to. [1] In the tradition of the Eastern Orthodox Church, "Zechariah son of Berechiah" is interpreted as Zechariah the father of John the Baptist, and his slaying is understood as taking place during the Slaughter of the Innocnets by Herod.
External links
- Jewish Encyclopedia: Zechariah Ben Jehoiada
