Jecholiah, also spelled Jecoliah, is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament as the mother of King Azariah, also known as Uzziah, who reigned over the Kingdom of Judah. Her name appears in the genealogical and historical records of the kings of Judah, highlighting her role in the Davidic lineage.

Biblical References:

Jecholiah is specifically mentioned in 2 Kings 15:2 and 2 Chronicles 26:3. In 2 Kings 15:2 , it is written: "He was sixteen years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-two years. His mother’s name was Jecholiah; she was from Jerusalem." Similarly, 2 Chronicles 26:3 states: "Uzziah was sixteen years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-two years. His mother’s name was Jecoliah; she was from Jerusalem."

Historical Context:

Jecholiah lived during a period of significant transition and turmoil in the history of Judah. Her son, Azariah/Uzziah, became king at a young age and ruled for an extended period, which was marked by both prosperity and challenges. Uzziah's reign is noted for military successes, economic development, and a strong emphasis on fortifying the nation. However, it was also marred by his pride and subsequent punishment by God, as detailed in 2 Chronicles 26:16-21.

Role and Significance:

While the biblical text provides limited information about Jecholiah herself, her mention as the mother of a prominent king underscores her importance in the royal lineage. As a woman from Jerusalem, her background may have contributed to the stability and continuity of the Davidic dynasty during her son's reign. The inclusion of her name in the biblical record serves to affirm the legitimacy and heritage of Uzziah's kingship.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, Jecholiah's mention in the Scriptures highlights the importance of maternal figures in the biblical narrative. Although the Bible often focuses on the deeds and decisions of kings and patriarchs, the acknowledgment of mothers like Jecholiah points to the broader familial and societal structures that undergird the biblical account. Her role as the mother of a king aligns with the biblical theme of God's providence in establishing and maintaining the Davidic line, which ultimately leads to the fulfillment of messianic prophecies.

In summary, Jecholiah's brief but significant mention in the Bible reflects her role in the lineage of Judah's monarchy and underscores the interconnectedness of family, faith, and leadership in the biblical tradition.2 Kings 15:2
Sixteen years old was he when he began to reign, and he reigned two and fifty years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Jecholiah of Jerusalem.
Nave's Topical Index

2 Chronicles 26:3
Sixteen years old was Uzziah when he began to reign, and he reigned fifty and two years in Jerusalem. His mother's name also was Jecoliah of Jerusalem.
Nave's Topical Index

3203. Yekolyah -- "Yah has been able," mother of King Azariah
... Word Origin from yakol and Yah Definition "Yah has been able," mother of King Azariah
NASB Word Usage Jechiliah (1), Jecoliah (1). Jecholiah, Jecoliah. ...
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