2 Chronicles 27:5

Jotham waged war against the king of the Ammonites and defeated them, and that year they gave him a hundred talents of silver, ten thousand cors of wheat, and ten thousand cors of barley. They paid him the same in the second and third years.

Study Bible

Jotham waged war against the king of the Ammonites and defeated them
Jotham, the son of Uzziah, was the king of Judah. His reign is noted for his military campaigns and his faithfulness to God. The Ammonites were a neighboring nation east of the Jordan River, often in conflict with Israel and Judah. This victory over the Ammonites demonstrates Jotham's strength and God's favor upon him. Historically, the Ammonites were descendants of Lot, and their land was often a point of contention. This victory can be seen as a continuation of the conflict between Israel and the Ammonites, which dates back to the time of the Judges (Judges 11).

and that year they gave him a hundred talents of silver, ten thousand cors of wheat, and ten thousand cors of barley
The tribute paid by the Ammonites signifies their subjugation and acknowledgment of Jotham's authority. A talent of silver was a significant amount, indicating the wealth and resources of the Ammonites. The cor was a large measure of dry goods, roughly equivalent to about 220 liters or 6 bushels. This payment in silver, wheat, and barley reflects the agricultural and economic practices of the time, where such goods were often used in trade and tribute. The tribute also highlights the prosperity of Jotham's reign and God's provision for Judah.

They paid him the same in the second and third years
The continued payment over three years suggests a sustained period of dominance and peace for Judah under Jotham's rule. This ongoing tribute indicates the stability and strength of Jotham's administration. It also reflects the political dynamics of the region, where vassal states would pay tribute to more powerful neighbors to maintain peace and avoid further conflict. This period of prosperity and peace can be seen as a blessing from God, aligning with the biblical theme that obedience to God leads to national blessing and security.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jotham
The king of Judah, son of Uzziah, known for his righteous reign and military successes.

2. Ammonites
A neighboring nation often in conflict with Israel and Judah, descendants of Lot.

3. King of the Ammonites
The ruler of the Ammonite people during Jotham's reign, who was defeated by Jotham.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Jotham reigned as king.

5. War and Tribute
The conflict between Jotham and the Ammonites, resulting in a tribute paid to Judah.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Leadership
Jotham's success against the Ammonites is attributed to his faithfulness to God. Leaders today can learn the importance of aligning their actions with God's will.

Divine Provision
The tribute from the Ammonites symbolizes God's provision for His people. Believers can trust God to provide for their needs when they walk in obedience.

Historical Context and God's Sovereignty
Understanding the historical context of Israel's enemies helps us see God's sovereignty over nations and His plans for His people.

Perseverance in Challenges
Jotham's continued success over three years shows the importance of perseverance. Christians are encouraged to remain steadfast in their faith and duties.

Impact of Righteous Living
Jotham's reign is marked by righteousness, which brings peace and prosperity. Believers are reminded that living righteously can lead to God's blessings.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jotham's faithfulness to God influence his military success against the Ammonites, and what can we learn from this about the relationship between faith and victory?

2. In what ways does the tribute paid by the Ammonites reflect God's provision, and how can we apply this understanding to our own financial or material needs?

3. Considering the historical enmity between Israel and the Ammonites, how does this passage demonstrate God's sovereignty over nations and conflicts?

4. What lessons can we draw from Jotham's perseverance in receiving tribute over three years, and how can this encourage us in our personal challenges?

5. How does Jotham's righteous leadership impact Judah, and what implications does this have for how we lead in our families, workplaces, or communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 15:32-38
Provides a parallel account of Jotham's reign, highlighting his faithfulness and the challenges he faced.

Deuteronomy 2:19
Discusses the Ammonites' land and God's instructions to Israel regarding them, providing historical context for their interactions.

Judges 11:4-33
Details earlier conflicts between Israel and the Ammonites, showing a long history of enmity.

Isaiah 1:1
Mentions Jotham as one of the kings during Isaiah's prophetic ministry, indicating the spiritual climate of his reign.