TRV
See on the biblical-era map
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 2 Chronicles 27:1–9. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
There is not much more related here concerning Jotham than we had before, Kg2 15:32, etc.
I.He reigned well.
He did that which was right in the sight of the Lord; the course of his reign was good, and pleasing to God, whose favour he made his end, and his word his rule, and (which shows that he acted from a good principle) he prepared his ways before the Lord his God (Ch2 27:6), that is, he walked circumspectly and with much caution, contrived how to shun that which was evil and compass that which was good. He looked before him, and cast his affairs into such a posture and method as made the regular management of them the more easy. Or he established or fixed his ways before the Lord, that is, he walked steadily and constantly in the way of his duty, was uniform and resolute in it: not like some of those that went before him, who, though they had some good in them, lost their credit by their inconstancy and inconsistency with themselves. They had run well, but something hindered them. It was not so with Jotham. Two things are observed here in his character: - 1. What was amiss in his father he amended in himself (Ch2 27:2): He did according to all that his father did well and wisely; howbeit he would not imitate him in which he did amiss; for he entered not into the temple of the Lord to burn incense as his father did, but took warning by his fate not to dare so presumptuous a thing. Note, We must not imitate the best men, and those we have the greatest veneration for, any further than they did well; but, on the contrary, their falls, and the injurious consequences of them, must be warnings to us to walk the more circumspectly, that we stumble not at the same stone that they stumbled at. 2. What was amiss in his people he could not prevail to amend: The people did yet corruptly. Perhaps it reflects some blame upon him, that he was wanting in his part towards the reformation of the land. Men may be very good themselves, and yet not have courage and zeal to do what they might do towards the reforming of others. however it certainly reflects a great deal of blame upon the people, that they did not do what they might have done to improve the advantages of so good a reign: they had good instructions given them and a good example set before them, but they would not be reformed; so that even in the reign of their good kings, as well as in that of the bad ones, they were treasuring up wrath against the day of wrath; for they still did corruptly, and the founder melted in vain.
II.He prospered, and became truly reputable.
1.He built. He began with the gate of the house of the Lord, which he repaired, beautified, and raised. He then fortified the wall of Ophel, and built cities in the mountains of Judah (Ch2 27:3, Ch2 27:4), took all possible care for the fortifying of his country and the replenishing of it.
2.He conquered. He prevailed against the Ammonites, who had invaded Judah in Jehoshaphat's time, Ch2 20:1. He triumphed over them, and exacted great contributions from them, Ch2 27:5. He became mighty (Ch2 27:6) in wealth and power, and influence upon the neighbouring nations, who courted his friendship and feared his displeasure; and this he got by preparing his ways before the Lord his God. The more stedfast we are in religion the more mighty we are both for the resistance of that which is evil and for the performance of that which is good.
III.He finished his course too soon, but finished it with honour.
He had the unhappiness to die in the midst of his days; but, to balance that, the happiness not to out-live his reputation, as the last three of his predecessors did. He died when he was but forty-one years of age (Ch2 27:8); but his wars and his ways, his wars abroad and his ways at home, were so glorious that they were recorded in the book of the kings of Israel, as well as of the kings of Judah, Ch2 27:7. The last words of the chapter are the most melancholy, as they inform us that Ahaz his son, whose character, in all respects, was the reverse of his, reigned in his stead. When the wealth and power with which wise men have done good devolve upon fools, that will do hurt with them, it is a lamentation, and shall be for a lamentation.
Continue studying 2 Chronicles 27:1 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.
Read & Compare
BibleGatewayThis verse in more than 200 translations and 70 languages.
Bible.comThe YouVersion reader — hundreds of translations, reading plans, and highlights.
ESV.orgCrossway's official English Standard Version reader.
NET BibleThe NET translation with 60,000+ translators' notes on every rendering decision.
STEP BibleTyndale House's free study tool — original text, vocabulary, and scholarly resources.
BibliaLogos Bible Software's free web reader.
USCCBThe New American Bible (Revised Edition) with the U.S. bishops' study notes.
Commentaries
BibleHub CommentariesDozens of classic commentaries on this verse, gathered on one page.
StudyLightMore than 100 commentary sets — the largest collection on the web.
BibleRefPlain-English commentary on what this verse means, verse by verse.
Enduring WordDavid Guzik's free commentary on this chapter, widely used by Bible teachers.
Bible Study ToolsVerse commentary alongside Greek and Hebrew study aids.
Original Language & Research
- BibleHub InterlinearThe verse word by word — original language, transliteration, and English.
- BibleHub LexiconEvery word's original-language definition and Strong's entry.
Blue Letter BibleDeep-study tools — Strong's numbers, concordance, and word studies.
SefariaThe Hebrew text with Rashi and centuries of Jewish commentary.
Sermons, Hymns & Audio
TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.
Summary
The provided draft Bible commentary serves as the formal and concise introduction to the reign of Jotham, the twelfth king of Judah, establishing the foundational chronological and genealogical details of his rule. This verse meticulously records his age at accession (twenty-five years old), the duration of his sovereignty (sixteen years), the fixed location of his capital (Jerusalem), and notably, the identity and esteemed lineage of his mother, Jerushah, who was the daughter of Zadok. It sets the stage for the Chronicler's subsequent account, which largely portrays Jotham's reign as righteous and prosperous, particularly in contrast to the latter, tragic period of his father Uzziah's rule.
Context
Literary Context
This introductory verse immediately follows the comprehensive narrative of King Uzziah's long and predominantly successful reign, which concluded tragically with his affliction by leprosy due to an act of prideful presumption in the temple, as detailed in 2 Chronicles 26:16-21. Given Uzziah's debilitating illness, it is widely understood that Jotham likely served as co-regent for a significant period before his formal accession, a crucial detail for appreciating his experience and the seamless transition of power. The Chronicler consistently employs this formulaic introduction for each monarch, providing vital statistics before proceeding to evaluate their reign based on their fidelity to Yahweh and the subsequent consequences, a pattern evident in the very next verse, 2 Chronicles 27:2. Thus, this verse functions as a formal transition point and a foundational statement for Jotham's entire narrative.
Historical & Cultural Context
Jotham's reign unfolded during a period of relative stability and strength for the kingdom of Judah, largely building upon the foundations laid by his father Uzziah. The specification of his age at twenty-five indicates a mature and capable leader, likely seasoned by his prior experience as co-regent. His sixteen-year reign firmly situates him within the broader timeline of the divided monarchy. The inclusion of his mother's name, Jerushah, and her father, Zadok, adheres to a standard practice in biblical royal genealogies, serving to authenticate the king's legitimate lineage and often hinting at the potential influence or prestige of the maternal side. While not necessarily Zadok the high priest from the time of David and Solomon, this Zadok was undoubtedly a prominent figure, possibly from a distinguished priestly or aristocratic family, thereby potentially lending additional prestige and political support to Jotham's rule. This era also witnessed the powerful ministries of significant prophetic figures like Isaiah and Micah, whose messages would have profoundly shaped the socio-political and spiritual climate of Judah, calling the nation to covenant faithfulness.
Key Themes
This introductory verse, though brief, contributes significantly to several overarching themes pervasive throughout the book of 2 Chronicles. Firstly, it powerfully underscores the theme of Succession and Continuity within the Davidic dynasty, highlighting the orderly and divinely ordained transfer of power despite the unfortunate and tragic end of Uzziah's reign. This continuity serves as a testament to God's enduring covenant with David, even amidst the failings and consequences of human sin. Secondly, it subtly introduces the critical theme of Righteous Leadership, as Jotham's reign is subsequently depicted as largely positive because "he did what was right in the eyes of the Lord" (2 Chronicles 27:2). Thirdly, the meticulous chronological and genealogical details emphasize Divine Sovereignty in History, illustrating God's active hand in orchestrating the rise and fall of kings and meticulously maintaining the royal line according to His purposes. Finally, the emphasis on Lineage and Identity through the explicit mention of his mother's name reinforces the profound importance of heritage and familial connections in ancient Israelite society, a recurring motif throughout the biblical narrative, particularly concerning the royal house and its covenantal promises.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This personal name (H3147) is derived from the Hebrew for "Jehovah (is) perfect." While the name itself does not directly evaluate Jotham's character, it resonates with the Chronicler's positive portrayal of him as a king who largely walked in obedience to the Lord. His reign, in this light, can be seen as a period reflecting a measure of completeness or fulfillment of righteous leadership, especially when contrasted with the later spiritual failings of his father, Uzziah.
This verb (H4427) is a primitive root meaning "to reign." Inceptively, it signifies "to ascend the throne," and causatively, "to induct into royalty." By implication, it can also mean "to take counsel." In the context of 2 Chronicles 27:1, it precisely signifies the formal and legitimate commencement of Jotham's independent rule, clearly distinguishing it from any prior co-regency. It underscores the transfer of full, divinely sanctioned royal authority.
This feminine noun (H1323) is derived from the root "to build" (as feminine of bên, "son," H1121), and refers to "a daughter" in a wide sense, encompassing literal and figurative relationships. In this verse, its use highlights the maternal lineage of Jotham, specifically identifying Jerushah as the "daughter of Zadok." This detail is crucial for establishing Jotham's legitimate royal pedigree and often suggests the social standing or influence of the maternal family, which in this case points to a prominent and respected connection.
Verse Breakdown
"Jotham [was] twenty and five years old when he began to reign"
This initial clause provides the precise age of Jotham at the formal commencement of his independent reign. At twenty-five, he was a mature adult, likely possessing considerable practical experience in governance, having served as co-regent during his father Uzziah's long illness. This detail suggests a prepared, capable, and responsible leader ascending to the throne.
"and he reigned sixteen years in Jerusalem."
This segment specifies both the duration and the geographical center of Jotham's rule. Sixteen years indicates a substantial, though not exceptionally long, period of kingship. The mention of "Jerusalem" as the capital signifies the continued stability and centrality of the Davidic kingdom, reinforcing the enduring covenantal promises associated with the city and the Davidic line. The Chronicler consistently uses these precise chronological and geographical markers to anchor the narrative within the historical framework of Israel.
"His mother's name also [was] Jerushah, the daughter of Zadok."
This final clause offers crucial genealogical information, a standard feature in the accounts of Judahite kings. The recording of the mother's name served to uniquely identify the king and often indicated the social standing or potential influence of her lineage. Jerushah's identity as "the daughter of Zadok" points to a distinguished family, further validating Jotham's royal pedigree and possibly indicating a strong connection to the priestly or aristocratic elite, thereby lending additional legitimacy and support to his rule.
Literary Devices
The primary literary devices at play in 2 Chronicles 27:1 are Conciseness, Formulaic Introduction, and subtle Foreshadowing. The verse is remarkably Concise, delivering essential biographical and chronological data about Jotham without any superfluous embellishment. This brevity is characteristic of the Chronicler's consistent Formulaic Introduction for each king, which typically includes the monarch's age at accession, the duration of their reign, and their mother's name (a pattern also seen, for example, in 1 Kings 15:2). This repetitive structure creates a powerful sense of order, continuity, and divine oversight within the historical narrative, emphasizing the structured succession of the Davidic line. Furthermore, while purely factual, the verse subtly Foreshadows the positive evaluation of Jotham's reign that immediately follows, particularly in 2 Chronicles 27:2, by presenting him as a legitimate, mature, and well-established monarch, fully prepared to assume his sacred duties.
Theological and Thematic Connections
This seemingly straightforward introductory verse carries profound theological weight, underscoring God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant with David, ensuring a continuous line of kings even amidst the challenges, moral failures, and tragic consequences faced by individual monarchs. Jotham's orderly accession, following his father Uzziah's pride-induced leprosy, powerfully highlights the principle that while human sin inevitably brings consequences, God's overarching redemptive plan for His people and the Davidic dynasty persists. The meticulous recording of his lineage, particularly his mother's connection to a prominent family, speaks to the profound importance of heritage and the divine orchestration of specific individuals for leadership roles. It sets the stage for a reign that, though relatively brief, is presented as righteous, demonstrating that obedience to God is the ultimate measure of a king's success and the true source of national prosperity—a core theological message consistently emphasized by the Chronicler.
Reflection and Application
The introduction of Jotham, like all biblical records of leadership transitions, invites profound reflection on the enduring principles of stewardship, legacy, and divine providence. Every leader, whether in a family, a local community, a professional organization, or a nation, inherits a complex context shaped by the actions, decisions, and character of those who came before them. Jotham's background, deeply influenced by his father Uzziah's remarkable successes and his tragic failures, provided the unique foundation upon which he was called to build his own reign. This serves as a powerful reminder that our present actions, our cultivation of character, and our commitment to righteousness actively contribute to the legacy we leave for future generations. A strong, righteous beginning, deeply informed by the lessons of the past—both positive and negative—is absolutely crucial for effective, God-honoring leadership that truly blesses those we lead. Even in seemingly mundane details like age and lineage, we discern God's sovereign hand at work, meticulously preparing individuals for their appointed tasks and ensuring the continuity of His grand redemptive plan throughout history.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why is the mother's name and lineage included for kings in the Bible?
The inclusion of the king's mother's name and sometimes her father's name (as with Jerushah, daughter of Zadok, in 2 Chronicles 27:1) was a common and significant practice in ancient Near Eastern royal records, and particularly prominent in the books of Kings and Chronicles for the kings of Judah. This served several crucial purposes:
Did Jotham truly "begin to reign" at 25, or was he already ruling?
While 2 Chronicles 27:1 states that Jotham "began to reign" at twenty-five, it is widely understood by biblical scholars that he had likely been serving as co-regent with his father, Uzziah, for a number of years prior to this formal accession. 2 Chronicles 26:21 explicitly states that after King Uzziah was afflicted with leprosy, he lived in "a separate house," and "Jotham his son was over the king's house, governing the people of the land." This clear statement indicates that Jotham had already assumed significant royal responsibilities, effectively ruling in his father's stead due to Uzziah's ritual impurity and isolation. Therefore, his "beginning to reign" at age twenty-five refers to the formal commencement of his sole and independent reign after Uzziah's death, rather than his very first involvement in governance. This prior, hands-on experience as co-regent would have undoubtedly prepared him exceptionally well for the full responsibilities and challenges of kingship.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
The introduction of Jotham as a righteous king, whose reign brought a measure of stability and prosperity to the kingdom of Judah, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jotham's meticulously recorded lineage, a standard feature of the Davidic kings, serves as a vital thread in the unfolding tapestry of biblical history, pointing forward to the ultimate Son of David, whose own genealogy is traced through both Joseph and Mary, confirming His rightful and eternal claim to the throne (Matthew 1:1-17 and Luke 3:23-38). While Jotham's reign was limited in both duration (sixteen years) and scope, and even he did not fully remove the high places (2 Chronicles 27:2), Jesus's reign is eternal, universal, and utterly perfect in every aspect. He is the King who truly "does what is right in the eyes of the Lord" without any blemish, compromise, or failure. The stability and success experienced during Jotham's rule, attributed to his walking before the Lord, serve as a faint echo and a prophetic foreshadowing of the unshakable, righteous, and everlasting kingdom established by Christ, the true King of Kings and Lord of Lords, whose dominion "shall have no end" (Luke 1:32-33). Jotham's introduction, therefore, is a small but significant detail in the grand narrative of God's redemptive plan, continually pointing to the glorious coming of the perfect, divine King.