See the comments on the standard formula introducing the kings of Israel and Judah at 1 Kgs 15.1-2, 9-10.

In the eighteenth year of Jehoshaphat …: For the dating of the beginning of Joram’s reign, see the comments on 2 Kgs 1.17. The frame of reference for the beginning of Joram’s reign in Israel is fixed in terms of the leadership of the kingdom of Judah. This is a common device used throughout the books of 1–2 Kings. Translators should ensure that it is understood that this refers to the eighteenth year of Jehoshaphat’s reign and not to his age.

Jehoram is rendered as “Joram” in Good News Translation. See the comments at 2 Kgs 1.17.

Samaria was the capital city of the northern kingdom of Israel. See the introductory comments on 1 Kgs 16.21-28.

Reigned: Some may prefer to translate this verb as “was king” or “continued as king.”

The wording of this verse may be reordered in such a way as to shift forward the main clause. The verse would then begin, as in New American Bible, “Joram, son of Ahab, became king of Israel in Samaria….” This is then followed by the time reference and statement about the length of his reign. The same kind of restructuring is done in New International Version and New Century Version.

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on 1-2 Kings, Volume 2. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2008. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .