2 Chronicles 27:3

He built the high gate of the house of the LORD, and on the wall of Ophel he built much.

He built {H1129} the high {H5945} gate {H8179} of the house {H1004} of the LORD {H3068}, and on the wall {H2346} of Ophel {H6077} he built {H1129} much {H7230}.

He built the Upper Gate of the house of ADONAI and added considerably to the wall of the 'Ofel.

Jotham rebuilt the Upper Gate of the house of the LORD, and he worked extensively on the wall at the hill of Ophel.

He built the upper gate of the house of Jehovah, and on the wall of Ophel he built much.

Commentary

2 Chronicles 27:3 details significant building projects undertaken by King Jotham of Judah, highlighting his commitment to both spiritual reverence and national security during his reign.

Context

This verse introduces the specific achievements of King Jotham, who began his reign at 25 years old and ruled for 16 years in Jerusalem, as noted in 2 Chronicles 27:1. Jotham was the son of Uzziah, a powerful king who had initially done what was right in the eyes of the Lord but later transgressed by entering the Temple to burn incense (2 Chronicles 26:16). Jotham, however, avoided his father's mistake, maintaining a righteous path and demonstrating his devotion through these major building initiatives.

Key Themes

  • Devotion to God's House: Jotham's construction of "the high gate of the house of the LORD" signifies his dedication to the Temple and the worship of God. This act would have enhanced the Temple's grandeur and accessibility, reflecting the king's piety.
  • National Security and Infrastructure: His extensive building "on the wall of Ophel" points to a strong focus on strengthening Jerusalem's defenses. Ophel was a crucial fortified area south of the Temple Mount, and its fortification was vital for the city's protection against external threats. This mirrors the defensive building efforts of his father, Uzziah, who also built towers and fortified Jerusalem.
  • Effective Leadership: Jotham's actions demonstrate a balanced and effective leadership, investing in both the spiritual center of the nation and its physical security. Such actions often led to prosperity and stability for the kingdom, as seen in 2 Chronicles 27:6.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "built much" (Hebrew: ืจึทื‘, rav) signifies extensive and significant construction. It implies not just minor repairs but substantial work, indicating Jotham's serious commitment and the considerable resources he dedicated to these projects. The "high gate" (ืฉึทืืขึทืจ ื”ึธืขึถืœึฐื™ื•ึนืŸ, sha'ar ha'elyon) suggests a prominent or elevated entrance, possibly to the inner court or a significant part of the Temple complex, making it a visible symbol of his reverence.

Practical Application

Jotham's example encourages believers to invest in what truly matters: our spiritual foundations and our personal and communal "defenses." Just as Jotham strengthened the physical and spiritual heart of Judah, we are called to:

  • Prioritize Spiritual Growth: Like building the Temple's gate, we should seek to enhance our access to and devotion within God's presence, whether through prayer, Bible study, or fellowship.
  • Strengthen Our Foundations: Building on the "wall of Ophel" can symbolize fortifying our lives against spiritual attacks and worldly influences. This involves establishing strong moral principles and seeking wisdom to navigate life's challenges.
  • Lead with Integrity: For those in positions of influence, Jotham's reign serves as a reminder that true leadership involves both nurturing spiritual health and ensuring practical well-being for those under our care.
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Cross-References

  • 2 Chronicles 33:14

    Now after this he built a wall without the city of David, on the west side of Gihon, in the valley, even to the entering in at the fish gate, and compassed about Ophel, and raised it up a very great height, and put captains of war in all the fenced cities of Judah.

  • Nehemiah 3:26

    Moreover the Nethinims dwelt in Ophel, unto [the place] over against the water gate toward the east, and the tower that lieth out.

  • Nehemiah 3:27

    After them the Tekoites repaired another piece, over against the great tower that lieth out, even unto the wall of Ophel.

  • Jeremiah 20:2

    Then Pashur smote Jeremiah the prophet, and put him in the stocks that [were] in the high gate of Benjamin, which [was] by the house of the LORD.

  • 2 Chronicles 23:20

    And he took the captains of hundreds, and the nobles, and the governors of the people, and all the people of the land, and brought down the king from the house of the LORD: and they came through the high gate into the king's house, and set the king upon the throne of the kingdom.
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