Azubah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the lineage of the kings of Judah. She is recognized as the mother of Jehoshaphat, one of the notable kings of Judah, who is known for his religious reforms and efforts to bring the nation back to the worship of Yahweh.

Biblical References:

Azubah is mentioned in 1 Kings 22:42 and 2 Chronicles 20:31. The Berean Standard Bible provides the following reference:

· 1 Kings 22:42 : "Jehoshaphat was thirty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem for twenty-five years. His mother’s name was Azubah daughter of Shilhi."

· 2 Chronicles 20:31 : "So Jehoshaphat reigned over Judah. He was thirty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem for twenty-five years. His mother’s name was Azubah daughter of Shilhi."

Family Background:

Azubah was the daughter of Shilhi, though little else is known about her family background or her life. Her mention in the biblical text is primarily in relation to her son, Jehoshaphat, who is a significant figure in the history of Judah. The lack of additional information about Azubah is not uncommon for women in the genealogical records of the Bible, where the focus often remains on the male lineage and their roles in the unfolding narrative of Israel's history.

Role and Influence:

While the Bible does not provide extensive details about Azubah's life or her role as the queen mother, her position would have been one of considerable influence. As the mother of Jehoshaphat, she would have played a crucial role in his upbringing and possibly in shaping his character and faith. Jehoshaphat is noted for his dedication to God and his efforts to rid Judah of idolatry, suggesting that his early life and the values instilled in him by his family, including Azubah, were aligned with the worship of Yahweh.

Jehoshaphat's Reign:

Jehoshaphat's reign is marked by a commitment to religious reform and the strengthening of Judah's defenses. He is praised for his efforts to educate the people in the Law of the Lord and for his judicial reforms. His reign is characterized by a period of relative peace and prosperity, attributed to his faithfulness to God. The influence of his mother, Azubah, though not explicitly detailed, can be inferred as part of the foundation that supported his successful reign.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the cultural and historical context of ancient Judah, the role of the queen mother was significant. She often held a position of honor and could wield considerable influence in the royal court. Although the biblical text does not elaborate on Azubah's specific actions or influence, her mention as the mother of a king underscores her importance in the dynastic lineage and the continuation of the Davidic line through her son, Jehoshaphat.

Azubah's legacy, therefore, is intertwined with that of her son, whose reign is remembered for its adherence to the covenantal traditions of Israel and its emphasis on the worship of the one true God.1 Kings 22:41
And Jehoshaphat the son of Asa began to reign over Judah in the fourth year of Ahab king of Israel.
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2 Chronicles 20:31
And Jehoshaphat reigned over Judah: he was thirty and five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned twenty and five years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Azubah the daughter of Shilhi.
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