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2 Chronicles 27

9 verses

TL;DR

Jotham reigned 16 years, building fortifications and defeating the Ammonites, but the people continued to err.

Summary

Jotham ascended to the throne of Judah at age twenty‑five and ruled for sixteen years. He followed his father Uzziah’s example by doing what was right before the LORD, although he did not enter the temple. He strengthened the capital by constructing the high gate of the LORD’s house and fortifying the wall of Ophel, as well as building cities, castles and towers in the mountains and forests of Judah. He fought the king of the Ammonites, emerged victorious, and received tribute in silver, wheat and barley for three consecutive years. The chapter notes that Jotham’s accomplishments and wars are recorded in the book of the kings, and that he was buried in the city of David, with his son Ahaz succeeding him. The text emphasizes that his power came from preparing his ways before the LORD.

Outline
  1. Ascension and reign of Jotham
  2. Military victories and fortifications
  3. Legacy and succession
Themes
Kingdom’s security and warfareFaithful leadership versus people’s corruptionDivine approval of righteous rule
Keywords
righteousnessfortificationtributeking of Ammonitesbook of kingsburial
People
JothamUzziahJerushahZadokAhazKing of the Ammonites
Places
JerusalemOphelMountains of JudahForests of JudahCity of DavidAmmon
Things
high gate of the house of the LORDwall of Ophelcitiescastlestowerssilverwheatbarleybook of the kings
Key Verses
  • 2 Chronicles 27:3: Shows Jotham’s building of the high gate, illustrating his commitment to fortifying the temple.
  • 2 Chronicles 27:5: Highlights the military victory over Ammon and the tribute received, underscoring his prowess.
  • 2 Chronicles 27:7: Notes that his acts are recorded in the book of kings, providing an external source.
Questions
  • How did Jotham’s actions strengthen Judah’s defense, and what lessons does this offer for leadership?
  • In what ways does the text portray the tension between the king’s righteousness and the people’s corruption?
  • What significance does the mention of the book of kings have for the historicity of Jotham’s reign?
Sentiment

neutral
The passage presents Jotham’s achievements positively while noting ongoing corruption.