10 Interesting Facts About King Jotham in the Bible

King Jotham is a lesser-known but faithful king of Judah in the Old Testament. His story shows the blessings that come from walking uprightly before the Lord. Though his reign was relatively short, his life offers lessons in leadership, humility, and obedience.

Below are ten interesting facts about King Jotham, with Bible verses to help you understand his role in Israel’s history.

1. Jotham Was the Son of Uzziah

Jotham was the son of King Uzziah (also called Azariah), who reigned in Judah for 52 years. Uzziah was struck with leprosy after unlawfully burning incense in the temple, and Jotham began ruling as co-regent during that time.

2 Kings 15:5
“The LORD struck the king with leprosy until the day he died, and he lived in a separate house. Jotham the king’s son had charge of the palace and governed the people of the land.”

2. Jotham Was 25 Years Old When He Became King

Jotham began his reign at a young age, showing early leadership qualities. He reigned for 16 years in Jerusalem.

2 Kings 15:33
“He was twenty-five years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem sixteen years. His mother’s name was Jerusha daughter of Zadok.”

3. He Did What Was Right in the Eyes of the Lord

Jotham was one of the few kings in Judah who followed the Lord faithfully, walking in the ways of his father Uzziah, but without committing his father’s mistake.

2 Kings 15:34
“He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father Uzziah had done.”

4. Jotham Did Not Enter the Temple Like His Father

Uzziah's downfall came from his pride when he entered the temple to offer incense, a duty only for priests. Jotham learned from this and avoided the same sin.

2 Chronicles 27:2
“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.”

5. He Strengthened Judah’s Defense

Jotham was a wise builder and military planner. He built up the wall of Ophel, constructed gates, and fortified cities in Judah.

2 Chronicles 27:3-4
“Jotham rebuilt the Upper Gate of the temple of the LORD and did extensive work on the wall at the hill of Ophel. He built towns in the hill country of Judah and forts and towers in the wooded areas.”

6. Jotham Fought Against the Ammonites

Jotham led successful military campaigns against the Ammonites. As a result, they paid him tribute for three years.

2 Chronicles 27:5
“Jotham waged war against the king of the Ammonites and prevailed over them... The Ammonites paid him in silver, wheat, and barley for three years.”

7. His Success Came From Seeking God

The Bible clearly ties Jotham’s strength and prosperity to his decision to walk uprightly and seek God’s will.

2 Chronicles 27:6
“Jotham grew powerful because he walked steadfastly before the LORD his God.”

8. The People Still Acted Corruptly

Even though Jotham followed the Lord, the people of Judah continued in their sinful ways. This shows that even godly leadership doesn't always lead to a godly nation.

2 Chronicles 27:2
“The people, however, continued their corrupt practices.”

9. He Was Buried in the City of David

Jotham received the honor of being buried in Jerusalem, the city of David, which was reserved for faithful kings.

2 Kings 15:38
“Jotham rested with his ancestors and was buried in the city of David.”

10. He Was the Father of King Ahaz

Jotham’s son, Ahaz, succeeded him as king, but unlike Jotham, Ahaz was an evil ruler. This contrast shows that righteousness is not automatically passed down.

2 Chronicles 27:9
“Jotham rested with his ancestors and was buried in the City of David. And Ahaz his son succeeded him as king.”

Summary Table: King Jotham's Reign