### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **Yᵉhôwshâphâṭ**, represented by `{{H3092}}`, means **Jehovah-judged**, a combination of `{{H3068}}` **Yᵉhôvâh** (Jehovah) and `{{H8199}}` **shâphaṭ** (to judge). It appears **84 times** across **75 unique verses**, primarily referring to a prominent king of Judah, but also to other Israelites and a significant prophetic valley.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Yᵉhôwshâphâṭ** `{{H3092}}` is most frequently identified as the son `{{H1121}}` of Asa `{{H609}}` and the fourth king of Judah `{{H3063}}` [[1 Kings 22:41]]. His reign was marked by a commitment to God; he walked `{{H1980}}` in the ways `{{H1870}}` of his father `{{H1}}` David `{{H1732}}` and sought `{{H1875}}` the LORD `{{H3068}}` with all his heart `{{H3824}}` ([[2 Chronicles 17:3]], [[2 Chronicles 22:9]]). When faced with a great `{{H7227}}` multitude `{{H1995}}`, Jehoshaphat feared `{{H3372}}` and proclaimed `{{H7121}}` a fast `{{H6685}}` for all Judah [[2 Chronicles 20:3]]. He was also rebuked by the prophet `{{H5030}}` Jehu `{{H3058}}` for forming an alliance and helping `{{H5826}}` the ungodly `{{H7563}}` king Ahab `{{H256}}` [[2 Chronicles 19:2]]. The name is also used for a valley where God will gather `{{H6908}}` all nations `{{H1471}}` for judgment `{{H8199}}` ([[Joel 3:2]], [[Joel 3:12]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context to the life and identity of Jehoshaphat:
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This title defines Jehoshaphat's primary role as the **king** of Judah [[1 Kings 22:2]], establishing his authority and responsibilities over the people `{{H5971}}`.
* `{{H8199}}` **shâphaṭ** (to judge): A root of his name, this word highlights a central theme. It describes God's action in the valley of Jehoshaphat, where he will sit to **judge** all the heathen [[Joel 3:12]].
* `{{H1875}}` **dârash** (to seek or ask): This verb characterizes Jehoshaphat's piety. He consistently made the effort to **enquire** of the LORD `{{H3068}}` through his prophets `{{H5030}}` before making decisions [[1 Kings 22:5]].
* `{{H4421}}` **milchâmâh** (a battle): Jehoshaphat was involved in several military campaigns, yet was told that the **battle** against a great multitude was not his, but God's [[2 Chronicles 20:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight associated with `{{H3092}}` **Yᵉhôwshâphâṭ** is significant, illustrating key principles of faith and divine justice.
* **Divine Judgment:** The name itself, "Jehovah-judged," points to God's ultimate authority. This is most clearly seen in the prophecy of the valley of **Jehoshaphat**, where God will sit to **judge** `{{H8199}}` the nations [[Joel 3:12]].
* **Reliance on God in Crisis:** When faced with overwhelming enemies, Jehoshaphat's prayer and proclamation of a fast `{{H6685}}` model complete dependence on God. The assurance that the **battle** `{{H4421}}` belongs to the LORD `{{H3068}}` underscores God's sovereignty [[2 Chronicles 20:15]].
* **The Power of Faith:** Jehoshaphat explicitly connects faith to stability and success, telling the people to **believe** `{{H539}}` in the LORD `{{H3068}}` to be established `{{H539}}`, and to **believe** `{{H539}}` His prophets `{{H5030}}` to prosper `{{H6743}}` [[2 Chronicles 20:20]].
* **Seeking God's Counsel:** Jehoshaphat's legacy is defined by his commitment to **sought** `{{H1875}}` the LORD with all his heart `{{H3824}}`, establishing a pattern of righteous leadership [[2 Chronicles 22:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3092}}` **Yᵉhôwshâphâṭ** is a name that bridges a historical figure with a profound theological concept. It represents a king of Judah who, despite flaws like questionable alliances [[2 Chronicles 18:1]], largely modeled a life of seeking and trusting God, leading to divine deliverance and a quiet `{{H8252}}` realm `{{H4438}}` [[2 Chronicles 20:30]]. Ultimately, his name serves as a constant reminder that Jehovah is the final judge of kings, people, and all nations.
TRV