2 Chronicles 27:4

Moreover he built cities in the mountains of Judah, and in the forests he built castles and towers.

Moreover he built {H1129} cities {H5892} in the mountains {H2022} of Judah {H3063}, and in the forests {H2793} he built {H1129} castles {H1003} and towers {H4026}.

He built cities in the hills of Y'hudah, and in the wooded areas he built forts and towers.

He also built cities in the hill country of Judah and fortresses and towers in the forests.

Moreover he built cities in the hill-country of Judah, and in the forests he built castles and towers.

Commentary

2 Chronicles 27:4 details King Jotham's extensive building activities, demonstrating his strategic vision and commitment to strengthening the kingdom of Judah. This verse highlights his efforts to develop and fortify his realm, ensuring its security and prosperity.

Context

This verse is part of the biblical account of King Jotham's reign over Judah. Jotham, the son of Uzziah, ascended to the throne and largely followed the righteous path of his father, doing what was right in the sight of the Lord. However, the people themselves continued in corrupt practices (2 Chronicles 27:2). His father, Uzziah, was also renowned for his significant building projects and military innovations, including fortifying Jerusalem and developing agricultural resources (see 2 Chronicles 26:9-10). Jotham's construction of "cities in the mountains of Judah" and "castles and towers" in the forests signifies a continuation of this proactive legacy. These fortifications were vital for territorial control, economic development, and robust defense, especially given the ongoing regional conflicts and the looming threats from surrounding nations, such as the conflict with Rezin of Syria and Pekah of Israel during his reign (2 Chronicles 27:5).

Key Themes

  • Strategic Development and Fortification: Jotham's comprehensive building program underscores his foresight in enhancing Judah's infrastructure and military defenses. The "mountains of Judah" offered natural protection, and the addition of cities and strongholds made them even more secure, serving as crucial outposts or places of refuge.
  • Wise Leadership and Stewardship: The king's dedication to building suggests a responsible approach to governance, investing in the kingdom's long-term stability and security. This action reflects a leader who understood and addressed the practical needs of his people and land.
  • Continuity of Royal Legacy: Jotham's actions directly echo and expand upon the constructive efforts of his father Uzziah. This continuity of proactive and strong leadership within the Davidic line provided essential stability for the kingdom of Judah.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV term "castles" (Hebrew: מִבְצָרִים, mibtsarim) in this context refers to fortified places, strongholds, or fortresses. This emphasizes that Jotham was not merely constructing residential areas but militarily significant installations. These structures were designed for defense and control, particularly in the more remote or potentially vulnerable "forest" regions, which likely served as strategic border areas or trade routes.

Practical Application

This historical account of Jotham's reign offers timeless lessons relevant to our lives today:

  • Proactive Planning: Jotham's building projects were a proactive measure to secure his kingdom, reminding us of the importance of planning and preparing for future challenges, whether in our personal lives, families, or communities.
  • Building Strong Foundations: Just as Jotham constructed physical structures, we are called to build strong foundations in our lives—spiritually, relationally, and professionally—that are resilient enough to withstand adversity and provide security.
  • Responsible Stewardship: This verse highlights the responsibility of leaders, and indeed all individuals, to wisely steward resources for the well-being and security of those under their care or influence. Jotham's investment in Judah's physical security is a testament to his good stewardship.

Jotham's reign, marked by significant construction and strategic defense, stands as an example of a monarch dedicated to the strength and security of his kingdom, showcasing the practical outworking of his righteous rule.

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Cross-References

  • Luke 1:39

    ¶ And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda;

  • 2 Chronicles 26:9

    Moreover Uzziah built towers in Jerusalem at the corner gate, and at the valley gate, and at the turning [of the wall], and fortified them.

  • 2 Chronicles 26:10

    Also he built towers in the desert, and digged many wells: for he had much cattle, both in the low country, and in the plains: husbandmen [also], and vine dressers in the mountains, and in Carmel: for he loved husbandry.

  • Joshua 14:12

    Now therefore give me this mountain, whereof the LORD spake in that day; for thou heardest in that day how the Anakims [were] there, and [that] the cities [were] great [and] fenced: if so be the LORD [will be] with me, then I shall be able to drive them out, as the LORD said.

  • Joshua 14:13

    And Joshua blessed him, and gave unto Caleb the son of Jephunneh Hebron for an inheritance.

  • 2 Chronicles 14:7

    Therefore he said unto Judah, Let us build these cities, and make about [them] walls, and towers, gates, and bars, [while] the land [is] yet before us; because we have sought the LORD our God, we have sought [him], and he hath given us rest on every side. So they built and prospered.

  • 2 Chronicles 11:5

    And Rehoboam dwelt in Jerusalem, and built cities for defence in Judah.
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