Nehush'ta is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the Kingdom of Judah during the late 7th century BC. She is noted for her royal lineage and her connection to the last kings of Judah.

Biblical References:

Nehush'ta is primarily mentioned in 2 Kings 24:8, which states: "Jehoiachin was eighteen years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem three months. His mother’s name was Nehushta daughter of Elnathan of Jerusalem."

Historical Context:

Nehush'ta lived during a tumultuous period in Judah's history, marked by political instability and the looming threat of Babylonian conquest. Her son, Jehoiachin, ascended to the throne following the reign of his father, Jehoiakim. However, Jehoiachin's reign was short-lived, lasting only three months before he was deposed by Nebuchadnezzar II, the king of Babylon.

Family and Lineage:

Nehush'ta was the daughter of Elnathan of Jerusalem, a figure about whom little is known outside of his mention in the context of Nehush'ta's genealogy. Her marriage to Jehoiakim, the king of Judah, positioned her as queen mother during her son's brief reign. The role of queen mother was significant in the royal court, often involving influence over political and dynastic matters.

Role and Influence:

While the biblical text does not provide extensive details about Nehush'ta's personal actions or influence, her position as queen mother would have afforded her a degree of authority and involvement in the affairs of the kingdom. The queen mother often played a crucial role in advising the king and managing courtly matters, although the extent of Nehush'ta's influence is not explicitly detailed in the Scriptures.

Theological Significance:

Nehush'ta's mention in the Bible, though brief, underscores the importance of maternal figures in the royal lineage of Judah. Her inclusion in the narrative highlights the interconnectedness of family and political dynamics in the biblical history of Israel and Judah. Her life and circumstances also reflect the broader themes of divine sovereignty and judgment, as Judah faced the consequences of its leaders' actions and the fulfillment of prophetic warnings through the Babylonian exile.

Cultural and Historical Impact:

Nehush'ta's account is a reminder of the complex interplay between personal, familial, and national identities in the biblical narrative. Her life, set against the backdrop of Judah's decline, serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Davidic line, even amidst political upheaval and foreign domination.Nehush'ta (1 Occurrence)

2 Kings 24:8
Jehoiachin was eighteen years old when he began to reign; and he reigned in Jerusalem three months; and his mother's name was Nehushta the daughter of Elnathan of Jerusalem.
(See RSV)

Nehush'ta (1 Occurrence)
Nehush'ta. Nehushta, Nehush'ta. Nehushtan . Multi-Version Concordance
Nehush'ta (1 Occurrence). 2 Kings 24:8 Jehoiachin was eighteen ...
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Nehushtan (1 Occurrence)

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Nehushta (1 Occurrence)

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