2 Chronicles 27:5

Jotham waged war against the king of the Ammonites and defeated them, and that year they gave him a hundred talents of silver, ten thousand cors of wheat, and ten thousand cors of barley. They paid him the same in the second and third years.

Study Bible

Jotham waged war
The phrase "Jotham waged war" indicates a proactive and assertive leadership style. Jotham, the son of Uzziah, was the king of Judah, and his decision to engage in warfare reflects the political and military climate of the time. The Hebrew root for "waged war" is "לחם" (lacham), which means to fight or battle. This suggests a deliberate and strategic action, emphasizing Jotham's role as a protector and defender of his people. Historically, this period was marked by regional conflicts, and Jotham's actions were likely seen as necessary to maintain sovereignty and security.

against the king of the Ammonites
The Ammonites were a neighboring nation east of the Jordan River, often in conflict with Israel and Judah. The phrase "against the king of the Ammonites" highlights the specific adversary Jotham faced. The Ammonites, descendants of Lot, had a long history of enmity with Israel. This conflict can be seen as part of the ongoing struggle for dominance and control in the region. The historical context reveals that the Ammonites were a significant threat, and Jotham's victory would have been a substantial achievement for Judah.

and prevailed
The phrase "and prevailed" signifies Jotham's success in the military campaign. The Hebrew word "חזק" (chazaq) means to be strong or to prevail, indicating not just a victory but a demonstration of strength and capability. This success would have bolstered Jotham's reputation as a competent and effective leader. From a theological perspective, prevailing in battle was often seen as a sign of divine favor and blessing, suggesting that Jotham's leadership was aligned with God's will.

That year the Ammonites paid him
The phrase "That year the Ammonites paid him" refers to the tribute imposed on the Ammonites following their defeat. Tribute payments were common in the ancient Near East as a sign of submission and acknowledgment of the victor's superiority. This payment would have been a significant economic boon for Judah, enhancing its wealth and stability. The act of paying tribute also symbolized the Ammonites' recognition of Jotham's authority and the shifting power dynamics in the region.

a hundred talents of silver
The "hundred talents of silver" represents a substantial amount of wealth. A talent was a large unit of weight, and silver was a valuable commodity. This payment underscores the economic impact of Jotham's victory. In the ancient world, silver was often used in trade and as a standard of wealth, so this tribute would have strengthened Judah's economy and increased its influence.

ten thousand cors of wheat, and ten thousand cors of barley
The "ten thousand cors of wheat, and ten thousand cors of barley" indicates a significant agricultural tribute. A cor was a large measure of grain, and both wheat and barley were staple crops. This payment would have ensured food security for Judah, supporting its population and military. The abundance of grain also symbolizes prosperity and God's provision, reflecting the blessings that come from faithful leadership.

They brought him the same in the second and third years as well
The phrase "They brought him the same in the second and third years as well" highlights the sustained nature of the tribute. This ongoing payment indicates a lasting impact of Jotham's victory and the continued subjugation of the Ammonites. It reflects the stability and strength of Jotham's reign, as well as the enduring benefits of his military success. This consistency in tribute also suggests a period of peace and prosperity for Judah, as the threat from the Ammonites was effectively neutralized.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jotham
The king of Judah, son of Uzziah, known for his righteous reign and military successes.

2. Ammonites
A neighboring nation often in conflict with Israel and Judah, descendants of Lot.

3. King of the Ammonites
The ruler of the Ammonite people during Jotham's reign, who was defeated by Jotham.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Jotham reigned as king.

5. War and Tribute
The conflict between Jotham and the Ammonites, resulting in a tribute paid to Judah.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Leadership
Jotham's success against the Ammonites is attributed to his faithfulness to God. Leaders today can learn the importance of aligning their actions with God's will.

Divine Provision
The tribute from the Ammonites symbolizes God's provision for His people. Believers can trust God to provide for their needs when they walk in obedience.

Historical Context and God's Sovereignty
Understanding the historical context of Israel's enemies helps us see God's sovereignty over nations and His plans for His people.

Perseverance in Challenges
Jotham's continued success over three years shows the importance of perseverance. Christians are encouraged to remain steadfast in their faith and duties.

Impact of Righteous Living
Jotham's reign is marked by righteousness, which brings peace and prosperity. Believers are reminded that living righteously can lead to God's blessings.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jotham's faithfulness to God influence his military success against the Ammonites, and what can we learn from this about the relationship between faith and victory?

2. In what ways does the tribute paid by the Ammonites reflect God's provision, and how can we apply this understanding to our own financial or material needs?

3. Considering the historical enmity between Israel and the Ammonites, how does this passage demonstrate God's sovereignty over nations and conflicts?

4. What lessons can we draw from Jotham's perseverance in receiving tribute over three years, and how can this encourage us in our personal challenges?

5. How does Jotham's righteous leadership impact Judah, and what implications does this have for how we lead in our families, workplaces, or communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 15:32-38
Provides a parallel account of Jotham's reign, highlighting his faithfulness and the challenges he faced.

Deuteronomy 2:19
Discusses the Ammonites' land and God's instructions to Israel regarding them, providing historical context for their interactions.

Judges 11:4-33
Details earlier conflicts between Israel and the Ammonites, showing a long history of enmity.

Isaiah 1:1
Mentions Jotham as one of the kings during Isaiah's prophetic ministry, indicating the spiritual climate of his reign.