Topical Encyclopedia Jotham, the son of Uzziah (also known as Azariah) and Jerusha, is a significant figure in the history of the Kingdom of Judah. His account is primarily found in the Old Testament books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles. Jotham's reign is noted for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to strengthen the kingdom both spiritually and materially.Background and Early Life Jotham was born into the royal lineage of Judah, the son of King Uzziah and Queen Jerusha, the daughter of Zadok. His father, Uzziah, was a king who initially did what was right in the eyes of the LORD but later fell into pride, resulting in his affliction with leprosy. This condition led to Uzziah living in isolation, and Jotham effectively began to govern the kingdom during his father's incapacitation. Reign as King Jotham officially became king of Judah following the death of Uzziah. His reign is recorded in 2 Kings 15:32-38 and 2 Chronicles 27:1-9. Jotham was twenty-five years old when he began to reign, and he ruled for sixteen years in Jerusalem. The Berean Standard Bible states, "He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father Uzziah had done" (2 Kings 15:34). However, unlike his father, Jotham did not enter the temple of the LORD, thus avoiding the sin of presumption that had led to Uzziah's downfall. Religious and Political Achievements Jotham is credited with fortifying the kingdom of Judah. He built extensively on the wall of Ophel and constructed cities in the hill country of Judah, along with fortresses and towers in the forests (2 Chronicles 27:3-4). These building projects not only strengthened the kingdom's defenses but also demonstrated Jotham's commitment to the welfare and security of his people. Spiritually, Jotham maintained a faithful adherence to the worship of Yahweh, although the high places were not removed, and the people continued to offer sacrifices there. Despite this, Jotham's personal integrity and devotion to God were evident, and he is remembered as a king who "ordered his ways before the LORD his God" (2 Chronicles 27:6). Challenges and Legacy During Jotham's reign, the geopolitical landscape was challenging. The growing threat of the Assyrian Empire loomed over the region, and Jotham faced opposition from neighboring nations, including the Arameans and the Ammonites. Nevertheless, he managed to subdue the Ammonites, who paid him tribute for three years (2 Chronicles 27:5). Jotham's legacy is one of faithfulness and strength. His reign is characterized by a commitment to God and the fortification of his kingdom. He is succeeded by his son Ahaz, who, unfortunately, did not follow in his father's righteous footsteps. Jotham's life and reign serve as a testament to the blessings of obedience and the importance of maintaining a steadfast relationship with God amidst external pressures and challenges. Nave's Topical Index Judges 9:16-21Now therefore, if you have done truly and sincerely, in that you have made Abimelech king, and if you have dealt well with Jerubbaal and his house, and have done to him according to the deserving of his hands; Nave's Topical Index Library The Empty Throne Filled The General Conference of 1840 Resources Who was Muhammad? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Billy Sunday? | GotQuestions.org Why did God condone such terrible violence in the Old Testament? | GotQuestions.org Orphan: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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