The answer is: Destroyed the rest of the royal family

2 Ki 11:1 - Athaliah who was intent on taking over the kingdom killed all the royal family except for Joash who was hidden away for six years to keep the royal line alive.

Athaliah's ruthless ambition is a dramatic tale from the scriptures, a real-life Game of Thrones set in ancient Judah. Her actions highlight a pivotal moment in biblical history. Following the death of her son Ahaziah, Athaliah saw an opportunity and seized power in . This kind of cutthroat leadership wasn’t new; power struggles are a recurring theme throughout the Bible.

Did you know Athaliah was the daughter of Jezebel? Talk about maintaining a family legacy! Jezebel was infamous for her wickedness and unwavering pursuit of idolatry, so it’s no wonder Athaliah sought to eradicate any potential threats to her rule. In doing so, however, she also ignored the prophetic lineage that foretold from the line of David. Joash, the sole survivor, would eventually rise up and re-establish rightful leadership.

For six years, little Joash lived hidden away, until the right moment arose for him to reclaim his heritage. His emergence illustrates the biblical theme of hope and preservation, even in dire circumstances. It’s thought-provoking to contrast Athaliah’s reign of terror with the rescue of a promising future leader, showcasing a profound turning point in Judah's narrative.

This saga presents a powerful reminder of how actions driven by fear and greed can leave scars on history, while tiny flickers of hope can spark change against all odds. Unfolding this drama encourages us to reflect on the transformative moments of deliverance silently woven into our own lives.