Jotham was twenty-five years old when he became king
Jotham's ascension to the throne at the age of twenty-five marks a period of transition in the Kingdom of Judah. His father, Uzziah, had been struck with leprosy and was isolated, which likely prepared Jotham for leadership. This age suggests a level of maturity and readiness for governance, as he would have been involved in royal duties prior to his reign. The age of twenty-five is significant in biblical terms, often associated with the beginning of priestly service (Numbers 8:24), indicating a time of readiness and responsibility.

and he reigned in Jerusalem sixteen years
Jotham's reign in Jerusalem, the political and spiritual center of Judah, lasted sixteen years. This period was marked by relative stability and prosperity, as Jotham followed in the ways of his father Uzziah, but without his father's transgressions (2 Chronicles 27:2). Jerusalem, as the city of David, held great significance as the location of the Temple, the center of worship for the Israelites. Jotham's reign is noted for his construction projects, including the building of the Upper Gate of the Temple (2 Chronicles 27:3), which reflects his commitment to strengthening the nation's religious and military infrastructure.

His mother’s name was Jerushah daughter of Zadok
The mention of Jotham's mother, Jerushah, and her lineage highlights the importance of maternal influence and heritage in the biblical narrative. Jerushah, meaning "possessed" or "married," was the daughter of Zadok, a name associated with righteousness and priestly lineage. This connection to Zadok may imply a heritage of faithfulness and adherence to God's laws, which could have influenced Jotham's own piety and governance. The inclusion of maternal lineage in the biblical text underscores the role of women in shaping the spiritual and moral character of their children, even in a patriarchal society.

And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD
Jotham, the king of Judah, is noted for his righteousness, following the example of his father, Uzziah. This phrase indicates his adherence to the covenantal laws and his commitment to worshiping Yahweh. The phrase "in the eyes of the LORD" emphasizes divine approval, suggesting that Jotham's actions were aligned with God's standards, a recurring theme in the evaluation of kings in the books of Kings and Chronicles.

just as his father Uzziah had done
Uzziah, also known as Azariah, was a king who initially did what was right in God's eyes but later fell into pride, leading to his downfall (2 Chronicles 26:16-21). Jotham is compared to Uzziah in his early years, highlighting the positive aspects of Uzziah's reign, such as military success and infrastructural development. This comparison serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and obedience to God throughout one's life.

In addition, he did not enter the temple of the LORD
This phrase refers to Uzziah's sin of unlawfully entering the temple to burn incense, an act reserved for priests (2 Chronicles 26:16-20). Jotham's decision not to repeat his father's mistake demonstrates his respect for the Levitical priesthood and the proper worship practices. It underscores the importance of adhering to God's established order and the consequences of overstepping divine boundaries.

But the people still behaved corruptly
Despite Jotham's personal righteousness, the people of Judah continued in their sinful ways. This highlights the persistent issue of collective disobedience among the Israelites, a theme seen throughout the Old Testament. It reflects the challenge of leading a nation to spiritual renewal and the limitations of even a righteous king's influence. This situation foreshadows the need for a perfect and eternal king, fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who would bring true and lasting transformation to His people.

Jotham rebuilt the Upper Gate of the house of the LORD
Jotham, the son of Uzziah, was a king of Judah who reigned during a time of relative stability. The Upper Gate of the house of the LORD refers to a specific entrance to the Temple in Jerusalem. This gate was significant for its role in the religious life of Judah, serving as a point of access for worshippers. The act of rebuilding suggests a period of restoration and renewal, possibly after neglect or damage. This reflects Jotham's commitment to maintaining the sanctity and functionality of the Temple, aligning with the biblical emphasis on proper worship and reverence for God. The Temple itself is a type of Christ, representing God's presence among His people, and Jotham's work can be seen as a foreshadowing of Christ's role in restoring the relationship between God and humanity.

and he worked extensively on the wall at the hill of Ophel
The hill of Ophel is a significant geographical location in Jerusalem, situated between the City of David and the Temple Mount. It was a fortified area, and Jotham's extensive work on the wall indicates a focus on strengthening the city's defenses. This construction effort highlights the importance of security and protection for the inhabitants of Jerusalem, reflecting the biblical theme of God as a fortress and protector. The wall's fortification can also be seen as a metaphor for spiritual fortitude, emphasizing the need for vigilance in maintaining one's faith. Historically, the fortification of Ophel would have been crucial in safeguarding the city from external threats, underscoring the king's role as both a spiritual and political leader.

He also built cities in the hill country of Judah
This phrase highlights King Jotham's efforts to strengthen and expand the infrastructure of Judah. The hill country of Judah is a region characterized by its rugged terrain and strategic importance. Building cities here would have provided military and economic advantages, as the elevated positions offered natural defense and oversight of trade routes. This action reflects Jotham's wisdom and foresight in fortifying his kingdom, similar to his father Uzziah's efforts (2 Chronicles 26:9-10). The hill country is also significant in biblical history, being the area where many key events and figures, such as David, operated (1 Samuel 17:1-3).

and fortresses and towers in the forests
The construction of fortresses and towers in the forests indicates a strategic military initiative. Forests in ancient Judah, such as the Forest of Hereth (1 Samuel 22:5), provided resources and cover for military operations. Fortresses served as defensive strongholds, while towers were used for surveillance and communication. This reflects a proactive approach to national security, ensuring protection against potential invasions. The emphasis on building in forests suggests an understanding of utilizing natural landscapes for defense, a practice seen throughout biblical narratives, such as in the battles led by King David (2 Samuel 5:22-25). This also prefigures the protective and watchful nature of Christ, who is often seen as a spiritual fortress and tower for believers (Psalm 18:2).

Jotham waged war against the king of the Ammonites and defeated them
Jotham, the son of Uzziah, was the king of Judah. His reign is noted for his military campaigns and his faithfulness to God. The Ammonites were a neighboring nation east of the Jordan River, often in conflict with Israel and Judah. This victory over the Ammonites demonstrates Jotham's strength and God's favor upon him. Historically, the Ammonites were descendants of Lot, and their land was often a point of contention. This victory can be seen as a continuation of the conflict between Israel and the Ammonites, which dates back to the time of the Judges (Judges 11).

and that year they gave him a hundred talents of silver, ten thousand cors of wheat, and ten thousand cors of barley
The tribute paid by the Ammonites signifies their subjugation and acknowledgment of Jotham's authority. A talent of silver was a significant amount, indicating the wealth and resources of the Ammonites. The cor was a large measure of dry goods, roughly equivalent to about 220 liters or 6 bushels. This payment in silver, wheat, and barley reflects the agricultural and economic practices of the time, where such goods were often used in trade and tribute. The tribute also highlights the prosperity of Jotham's reign and God's provision for Judah.

They paid him the same in the second and third years
The continued payment over three years suggests a sustained period of dominance and peace for Judah under Jotham's rule. This ongoing tribute indicates the stability and strength of Jotham's administration. It also reflects the political dynamics of the region, where vassal states would pay tribute to more powerful neighbors to maintain peace and avoid further conflict. This period of prosperity and peace can be seen as a blessing from God, aligning with the biblical theme that obedience to God leads to national blessing and security.

So Jotham grew powerful
Jotham was the son of Uzziah and became king of Judah. His reign is noted for stability and strength, which is reflected in his military successes and building projects. The phrase "grew powerful" indicates not only military might but also political influence and stability. This growth in power can be seen as a continuation of the prosperity that began under his father, Uzziah, who also had a successful reign until his pride led to his downfall (2 Chronicles 26:16). Jotham's power is a testament to his effective leadership and the favor of God upon his reign.

because he ordered his ways
This phrase highlights Jotham's intentional and disciplined approach to governance and personal conduct. "Ordered his ways" suggests a life of structure, purpose, and adherence to a set of principles. In the context of a king, this would involve just and wise administration, as well as personal integrity. The Hebrew concept of "ways" often refers to one's conduct or lifestyle, indicating that Jotham's actions were consistent and aligned with divine expectations.

before the LORD his God
Jotham's success is attributed to his relationship with God, emphasizing that his power was not merely due to human effort or strategy but was a result of divine blessing. The phrase "before the LORD" suggests living in a manner that is pleasing to God, with an awareness of His presence and authority. This reflects the covenant relationship between God and the kings of Judah, where obedience to God's laws was expected. Jotham's faithfulness contrasts with other kings who turned away from God, leading to their downfall. This phrase also connects to the broader biblical theme that true success and prosperity come from aligning one's life with God's will, as seen in passages like Psalm 1:1-3 and Proverbs 3:5-6.

As for the rest of the acts of Jotham
Jotham was the son of Uzziah and reigned as king of Judah. His reign is noted for his faithfulness to God, unlike some of his predecessors and successors. The phrase suggests that there were additional deeds and accomplishments of Jotham not detailed in this particular account, indicating a fuller narrative elsewhere. This reflects the common biblical practice of summarizing a king's reign while pointing to other sources for more comprehensive details.

along with all his wars and his ways
Jotham's reign was marked by military campaigns and construction projects, including fortifying cities and building towers. His military actions were significant in maintaining the security and stability of Judah during his time. The mention of "his ways" implies his governance style and personal conduct, which were generally seen as righteous and in accordance with God's laws, as he did not follow in the sinful ways of his father Uzziah.

they are indeed written in the Book of the Kings of Israel and Judah
This reference points to a historical record that chronicled the reigns of the kings of both Israel and Judah. While this specific book is not part of the current biblical canon, it suggests that there were other historical documents used as sources for the biblical narrative. This practice of referencing other works underscores the historical nature of the biblical accounts and the importance of written records in ancient times. The mention of both Israel and Judah highlights the divided kingdom period, emphasizing the separate yet intertwined histories of the two nations.

He was twenty-five years old when he became king
Jotham, the son of Uzziah, ascended to the throne of Judah at the age of twenty-five. This age suggests a level of maturity and readiness for leadership, as he would have been well-prepared by his father, who was a successful king until his later years. The age of twenty-five is significant in biblical terms, often associated with the beginning of service or leadership, as seen with the Levites who began their service at this age (Numbers 8:24). Jotham's ascension at this age indicates a transition from the co-regency with his father, who was struck with leprosy and thus unable to fulfill his duties fully (2 Chronicles 26:21).

and he reigned in Jerusalem
Jotham's reign in Jerusalem underscores the city's centrality as the political and spiritual heart of Judah. Jerusalem, the city of David, was not only the capital but also the location of the Temple, the center of worship for the Israelites. Jotham's rule from Jerusalem signifies continuity in the Davidic line, fulfilling God's promise to David of an enduring dynasty (2 Samuel 7:16). The city's strategic location and fortifications, which Jotham himself improved (2 Chronicles 27:3-4), highlight its importance in maintaining the security and prosperity of the kingdom.

sixteen years
Jotham's sixteen-year reign is noted for its stability and relative peace, especially compared to the tumultuous periods before and after his rule. His reign is characterized by obedience to God, as he did what was right in the eyes of the Lord (2 Chronicles 27:2). This period allowed for significant building projects and fortifications, contributing to the strength and security of Judah. The length of his reign, while not as long as some of his predecessors, was sufficient to leave a positive impact on the kingdom, setting a standard for his successors. His reign is a reminder of the blessings of faithfulness to God, as seen in the prosperity and peace that Judah experienced during his time.

And Jotham rested with his fathers
This phrase indicates the death of Jotham, the king of Judah. The expression "rested with his fathers" is a common biblical euphemism for death, suggesting a peaceful passing and a joining with ancestors. It reflects the belief in an afterlife and the continuation of one's lineage. Jotham was a king who did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, as noted earlier in 2 Chronicles 27:2, and his reign was marked by stability and prosperity. His death marks the end of a relatively peaceful period in Judah's history.

and was buried in the City of David.
The City of David refers to Jerusalem, specifically the southeastern part of the city where the ancient Jebusite city was located. This area became the burial place for the kings of Judah, signifying honor and respect. The burial in the City of David underscores Jotham's legitimacy and his place in the Davidic line, which is significant for the messianic prophecies concerning the lineage of David (2 Samuel 7:12-16). Archaeological findings in the area have provided insights into the burial practices and the historical context of the Davidic dynasty.

And his son Ahaz reigned in his place.
Ahaz's ascension to the throne marks a significant transition in Judah's history. Unlike his father, Ahaz is noted for his unfaithfulness to God, as he engaged in idolatrous practices and sought alliances with foreign powers, which led to spiritual and political decline (2 Kings 16:2-4). This change in leadership highlights the cyclical nature of the kings of Judah, where periods of faithfulness are often followed by times of apostasy. Ahaz's reign sets the stage for the prophetic ministries of Isaiah and Micah, who called the nation back to covenant faithfulness. The contrast between Jotham and Ahaz serves as a reminder of the importance of godly leadership and its impact on a nation's spiritual health.