What is the context?
The book closes by returning to Israel. Ahaziah, Ahab’s son, begins to reign in Samaria and is credited with a two-year reign.
His conduct is measured against both his parents and Jeroboam: he continues the ways that had led Israel into sin. The particular act named is his service and worship of Baal.
This brief ending leaves the account of his reign unfinished; it continues in 2 Kings. A new ruler has taken the throne, but the change of name has not brought a change in worship.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Henry emphasizes Ahaziah’s failure to learn from what had happened to his father. Wesley draws attention to the limit of family example: following parents does not justify conduct opposed to God’s word.
Gill likewise reads the summary as a continuation of Ahab’s and Jezebel’s practices. These readings focus on the choices the text names, rather than treating a king’s ancestry as removing his responsibility.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.