Topical Bible: Jotham: Son of Azariah, King of Judah: Ancestor of Jesus

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Topical Encyclopedia

Jotham, the son of King Azariah (also known as Uzziah) and Jerusha, daughter of Zadok, was the eleventh king of the Kingdom of Judah. His reign is chronicled in the books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles, and he is also mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus Christ in the Gospel of Matthew.

Reign and Achievements

Jotham ascended to the throne following the affliction of his father, Azariah, with leprosy, which led to Azariah's isolation from public life. Jotham effectively began his rule as a co-regent and later became the sole monarch upon his father's death. His reign is noted for its relative stability and prosperity, lasting sixteen years, approximately from 750 to 735 BC.

The biblical account in 2 Kings 15:34-35 states, "And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father Uzziah had done. Nevertheless, the high places were not removed; the people continued sacrificing and burning incense on the high places." Jotham's commitment to righteousness is highlighted, although he did not remove the high places, which were centers of unauthorized worship.

Jotham is credited with significant building projects, including the construction of the Upper Gate of the Temple of the LORD and extensive work on the wall of Ophel (2 Chronicles 27:3). His efforts in fortifying cities and building towers in the forests are indicative of his focus on strengthening the kingdom's defenses and infrastructure.

Military Campaigns and Relations

Jotham's reign was marked by military success and the subjugation of the Ammonites, who paid him a substantial tribute for three years. 2 Chronicles 27:5 records, "He also fought the king of the Ammonites and prevailed against them. That year the Ammonites paid 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."

His ability to maintain peace and security in Judah, while asserting dominance over neighboring territories, reflects his effective leadership and military acumen.

Spiritual Legacy and Ancestry of Jesus

Jotham's spiritual legacy is one of faithfulness to God, as he is described as having walked in the ways of the LORD. His reign is seen as a continuation of the Davidic line's commitment to the covenant with God, despite the incomplete religious reforms.

In the New Testament, Jotham is listed in the genealogy of Jesus Christ, underscoring his role in the messianic lineage. Matthew 1:9 states, "Uzziah was the father of Jotham, Jotham the father of Ahaz, Ahaz the father of Hezekiah." This inclusion highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to David that his descendants would play a pivotal role in the salvation history culminating in Jesus.

Death and Succession

Jotham's death is recorded in 2 Kings 15:38 : "And Jotham rested with his fathers and was buried with them in the City of David, his ancestor. And his son Ahaz reigned in his place." His burial in the City of David signifies his honored status among the kings of Judah. Jotham was succeeded by his son Ahaz, whose reign would contrast sharply with his father's, as Ahaz led Judah into idolatry and apostasy.

Jotham's life and reign are remembered for his dedication to God, his contributions to the kingdom's infrastructure, and his place in the lineage of the Messiah, Jesus Christ.