Jotbah is a location mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, specifically within the context of the narrative concerning the kings of Judah. It is referenced in 2 Kings 21:19, where it is noted as the hometown of Meshullemeth, the mother of King Amon of Judah. The Berean Standard Bible states: "Amon was twenty-two years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem two years. His mother’s name was Meshullemeth daughter of Haruz; she was from Jotbah."

Historical and Geographical Context

Jotbah is identified as a place within the territory of Judah, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The exact location of Jotbah is not definitively known today, and it is not frequently mentioned in biblical or extrabiblical sources. However, its inclusion in the narrative of the kings of Judah suggests it was a recognized settlement during the period of the monarchy.

Biblical Significance

The mention of Jotbah in the context of King Amon's reign provides insight into the familial and political connections of the Judean monarchy. Amon, the son of the notorious King Manasseh, is described in the biblical account as having continued the idolatrous practices of his father, which ultimately led to his assassination by his own servants (2 Kings 21:23). The reference to Jotbah, therefore, serves to highlight the maternal lineage of Amon, which may have had implications for his reign and the political dynamics of the time.

Cultural and Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, the brief mention of Jotbah underscores the importance of familial and tribal affiliations in the narrative of Israel's history. The Bible often provides details about the lineage and origins of key figures, reflecting the cultural emphasis on heritage and identity. In the case of Jotbah, its mention alongside the name of Meshullemeth suggests a recognition of the maternal influence in the royal lineage, which is a recurring theme in the biblical text.

Conclusion

While Jotbah is not a prominent location in the biblical narrative, its mention in the context of the Judean monarchy provides valuable insight into the familial and political structures of ancient Israel. The reference to Jotbah in 2 Kings 21:19 serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of place, lineage, and leadership in the biblical account of Judah's history.2 Kings 21:19
Amon was twenty and two years old when he began to reign, and he reigned two years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Meshullemeth, the daughter of Haruz of Jotbah.
Nave's Topical Index

3192. Yotbah -- "pleasantness," a city probably in Judah
... Origin from yatab Definition "pleasantness," a city probably in Judah NASB Word
Usage Jotbah (1). Jotbah. From yatab; pleasantness; Jotbah, a place in Palestine ...
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