Topical Encyclopedia Jotham, the son of Uzziah (also known as Azariah) and Jerusha, is a notable figure in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of his fatherless status. His account is primarily found in the Old Testament books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles. Jotham's father, Uzziah, was a king of Judah who reigned for 52 years. However, due to his pride and subsequent disobedience to God, Uzziah was struck with leprosy and lived in isolation until his death. This left Jotham to assume the responsibilities of leadership while his father was still alive but incapacitated.Biblical Account Jotham's reign is described in 2 Kings 15:32-38 and 2 Chronicles 27. He became king at the age of 25 and reigned for 16 years in Jerusalem. The Bible commends Jotham for doing what was right in the eyes of the LORD, following the example of his father Uzziah, albeit without repeating his father's mistake of entering the temple of the LORD (2 Chronicles 27:2). The Berean Standard Bible states, "He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father Uzziah had done, but he did not enter the temple of the LORD. Nevertheless, the people continued their corrupt practices" (2 Chronicles 27:2). Leadership and Achievements Despite the challenges of his father's condition and the moral decline among the people, Jotham is noted for his effective leadership and construction projects. He fortified the wall of Ophel and built cities in the hill country of Judah, as well as fortresses and towers in the forests (2 Chronicles 27:3-4). His military campaigns were also successful, as he fought against the Ammonites and secured tribute from them for three years (2 Chronicles 27:5). Spiritual Legacy Jotham's reign is characterized by a commitment to righteousness and a desire to follow God's commandments. The Bible notes that "Jotham grew powerful because he ordered his ways before the LORD his God" (2 Chronicles 27:6). His faithfulness to God, despite the societal pressures and the absence of his father's direct guidance, highlights the importance of personal integrity and reliance on divine wisdom. Context of Fatherlessness Jotham's experience as a fatherless leader, in the sense of lacking his father's active presence and guidance due to Uzziah's leprosy, underscores the biblical theme of God's provision and strength for those who are fatherless. The Scriptures frequently emphasize God's care for the fatherless, as seen in passages like Psalm 68:5, which describes God as "a father to the fatherless." Jotham's ability to lead effectively and maintain a righteous path serves as a testament to God's sustaining power and the potential for individuals to rise above challenging circumstances. Historical and Theological Significance Jotham's reign is situated during a period of transition and turmoil in the history of Judah. His leadership provided stability and continuity in the midst of external threats and internal moral decay. Theologically, Jotham's account reinforces the biblical principle that true strength and success come from aligning one's life with God's will. His life serves as an example of how faithfulness to God can lead to personal and national prosperity, even in the absence of earthly parental guidance. Torrey's Topical Textbook Judges 9:16-21Now therefore, if you have done truly and sincerely, in that you have made Abimelech king, and if you have dealt well with Jerubbaal and his house, and have done to him according to the deserving of his hands; Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Call of Isaiah The Great Suit: Jehovah Versus Judah The Greater Prophets. The Prophet Hosea. The Fruitless vine Resources What does it mean that God is father to the fatherless? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about how widows are to be treated? | GotQuestions.org What is Christian Socialism? | GotQuestions.org Fatherless: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Fatherless: A Curse on Those Who Oppress Fatherless: A Type of Zion in Affliction Fatherless: Blessedness of Taking Care of Fatherless: Daughters of Zelophehad Fatherless: God Will: Be a Father of Fatherless: God Will: Be a Helper of Fatherless: God Will: Execute the Judgment of Fatherless: God Will: Hear the Cry of Fatherless: God Will: Punish Those Who Judge Not Fatherless: God Will: Punish Those Who Oppress Fatherless: Let Them Share in Our Blessings Fatherless: Promises With Respect To Fatherless: The Wicked: Judge not For Fatherless: The Wicked: Murder Fatherless: The Wicked: Oppress Fatherless: The Wicked: Overwhelm Fatherless: Visit in Affliction Fatherless: Wrong Not, in Judgment Related Terms |
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