The Hebrew name Yᵉrûwshâʼ, represented by H3388, is defined as possessed. It appears just 2 times in 2 unique verses, where it is used as the proper name Jerusha or Jerushah for an Israelitess.
The use of H3388 is specific and consistent across its two appearances. In both 2 Kings 15:33 and 2 Chronicles 27:1, the name identifies Jerusha as the mother of Jotham, a king of Judah. The passages state that Jotham began to reign H4427 at twenty-five years of age and reigned for sixteen years in Jerusalem H3389. Both accounts also note that Jerusha was the daughter H1323 of Zadok.
The identity of Jerusha is established through her relationships to other significant figures and concepts:
- H3147 Yôwthâm (Jotham): Her son H1121, whose name means "Jehovah (is) perfect." He was a king who reigned in Judah 2 Chronicles 27:1.
- H1323 bath (daughter): This word defines her relationship to her father. It is used widely to denote female lineage, both literally and figuratively, such as the "daughter of Zion" Isaiah 62:11.
- H6659 Tsâdôwq (Zadok): Her father, whose name means "just." The name Zadok is associated with the priestly line in Israel Ezekiel 44:15.
While appearing only as a name, the context surrounding H3388 carries weight. Jerusha's significance is understood through her lineage and her role as a royal mother.
- A Righteous Heritage: Being the daughter of Zadok H6659, whose name means "just," connects her to a legacy of priestly righteousness. The sons of Zadok were noted for keeping charge of the sanctuary Ezekiel 44:15.
- Royal Motherhood: As the mother H517 of King Jotham H3147, whose name signifies "Jehovah (is) perfect," she is a key figure in the continuation of the Davidic monarchy in Jerusalem.
- Identity Through Name: The name Yᵉrûwshâʼ itself, meaning "possessed," points to an identity rooted in belonging. As an Israelitess and the mother of a king in Judah, this can be seen as reflecting a position within God's covenant people.
In summary, H3388 Yᵉrûwshâʼ is a name exclusively tied to the mother of King Jotham. Though mentioned only twice, her identity is enriched by her name's meaning ("possessed") and her connections to a "just" father, Zadok, and a kingly son, Jotham. Her story is a small but precise detail within the larger narrative of Judah's royal and priestly lines.
TRV