Rumah is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the genealogy and family background of King Jehoiakim of Judah. The reference to Rumah is found in 2 Kings 23:36, which states, "Jehoiakim was twenty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem eleven years. His mother’s name was Zebidah daughter of Pedaiah; she was from Rumah."

Historical and Geographical Context

Rumah is identified as the hometown of Zebidah, the mother of Jehoiakim. While the exact location of Rumah is not definitively known, it is traditionally associated with a site in the region of Galilee. Some scholars suggest that Rumah could be linked to the modern-day village of Ruma, located near the ancient city of Dothan. This association is based on historical and geographical considerations, although definitive archaeological evidence is lacking.

Biblical Significance

The mention of Rumah in the Bible is brief, yet it provides insight into the familial and regional background of Jehoiakim, one of the last kings of Judah before the Babylonian exile. Jehoiakim's reign is noted for its political turmoil and spiritual decline, as he is often remembered for his opposition to the prophet Jeremiah and his alliance with Egypt against Babylon.

The reference to Rumah highlights the importance of maternal lineage in the biblical narrative, as the identity and origin of a king's mother were often recorded to provide a fuller picture of the king's heritage. Zebidah's connection to Rumah suggests that Jehoiakim's maternal family may have had some standing or influence in that region.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the mention of Rumah, though brief, underscores the interconnectedness of the people and places within the biblical narrative. It serves as a reminder of the diverse backgrounds and origins of the individuals who played roles in the unfolding account of Israel and Judah. The inclusion of such details reflects the Bible's emphasis on historical context and the significance of family heritage in understanding the lives and actions of its characters.

In the broader biblical narrative, the reign of Jehoiakim and the subsequent fall of Jerusalem to Babylon are pivotal events that illustrate themes of covenant faithfulness, divine judgment, and the hope of restoration. The mention of Rumah, therefore, contributes to the rich tapestry of historical and theological elements that characterize the biblical account of this period.2 Kings 23:36
Jehoiakim was twenty and five years old when he began to reign; and he reigned eleven years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Zebudah, the daughter of Pedaiah of Rumah.
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