The answer is: Athaliah

2 Chr 22:12 - Queen regnant (in her own right) as opposed to queen consort (because she is married to the king)

When talking about rulers in biblical times, Athaliah stands out #GirlPower! She was no ordinary queen; Athaliah of Judah was the only woman we know of in the Old Testament who reigned in her own right, taking the title of queen regnant. As daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, she had royal blood and lots of ambition—traits not uncommon among zealots of her family tree!

Her story unfolds with intense drama worthy of a reality show—following her son Ahaziah’s death, she took control, savvy enough to eliminate rivals and rule for six years. Athaliah’s reign is peppered with elements akin to classic tales of intrigue; she even endeavored to erase the worship of Yahweh, leaning instead into the practices of her idolatrous heritage forged in the fiery context of Silk Road commerce.

Interestingly, her dramatic downfall comes due to what seemed to be a false conclusion of an unintentional raid on her control, primarily led by the high priest Jehoiada. Theology becomes involved as this clash entertains challenges of divine throne claims, transitions, and cultural reshaping.

The astonishing journey of joy, rise, fall, and polar vibes in her life resonated through biblical tones with major lessons on the limits of power—an echo felt throughout history for queens and rulers in loving memory! Athaliah’s unique claim serves as a historic underscore, viewing women’s unique leadership in a patriarchal narrative, even if tinged with controversy.