The virtue of the reflection of this verse is apparent. Prepared ; Hebrew, הֵכִין ; Revised Version, ordered; with some others (such as "set straight," etc.), a good rendering in keeping with other Old Testament renderings of words betokening moral habitude. read more
The accumulation of spiritual power. "So Jotham became mighty, because he prepared his ways before the Lord his God;" or, because "he made his ways firm before Jahveh." Whatever may be the exact rendering of the passage, and whatever may be the precise shade of thought intended to be conveyed, it is clear that Jotham's might or his strength in the kingdom is referred to his continuance in the service of the Lord. And thence we gain the truth that true power is to be sought and found in... read more
This short chapter runs parallel with 2 Kings (marginal reference), and is taken mainly from the same source or sources which it amplifies. read more
Ophel was the name given to the long, narrowish, rounded spur or promontory, which intervenes between the central valley of Jerusalem (the Tyropoeon) and the Kidron, or valley of Jehoshaphat. The anxiety of Uzziah and Jotham to fortify their territory indicates a fear of external attack, which at this time was probably felt mainly in connection with Samaria and Syria (2 Kings 15:37 note). The faithless trust put in fortifications was rebuked by the prophets of the time Hosea 8:14; Isaiah 2:15. read more
The Ammonites, who had submitted to Uzziah 2 Chronicles 26:8, revolted against Jotham. This revolt he firmly repressed; and, to punish it, he exacted a high rate of tribute for the three years following the termination of the war. The productiveness of the Ammonite country in grain, which is here indicated, has been remarked upon as extraordinary by modern travelers. read more
A.M. 3246. B.C. 758. Jotham reigns well and prospers, 2 Chronicles 27:1-6 . The conclusion of his reign, 2 Chronicles 27:7-9 . 2 Chronicles 27:2. He did that which was right, &c. He did according to all his father Uzziah did, except in his miscarriages. We must not imitate those we have the greatest esteem for, any further than they do well; and their failings must be warnings to us, to walk more circumspectly. 2 Chronicles 27:3. He built the high gate, &c. Otherwise called... read more
Prosperity followed by disaster (25:1-28:27)Succeeding kings of Israel are passed over in silence (2 Kings 13:1-25). Judah was to have nothing to do with the northern kingdom, not even to the hiring of Israelite soldiers. Amaziah took the advice, and was rewarded with victory in a battle against Edom. But the victory, instead of increasing his dependence on God, gave him a feeling of independence. He turned from God and worshipped idols. The ungodly northern kingdom then became God’s instrument... read more
twenty and five years old: i.e. when he began to reign alone. He was twenty when his father was smitten, and when he became co-regent. At his father's death he was twenty-five, and Ahaz was five. See App-50 . read more
the LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4 . according to all: i.e. to all the good, not the evil. Hence the "howbeit", which follows. entered not into. As his father had done (2 Chronicles 26:16 ). Not like Ahaz (2 Chronicles 28:24 ). read more
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The Pulpit Commentary - 2 Chronicles 27:5
He fought … the King of the Ammonites . No allusion is made to the matter of this verse in the parallel, which contains a statement of the Syrian Rezin's attack or threatened invasion of Judah; as well as Pekah's, son of Remaliah King of Israel. Of the Ammonites' defeat by Uzziah we have just heard (foregoing chapter, 2 Chronicles 27:8 ). A general statement is all that is made there of the gifts or tribute, they then had to pay. The present tribute was a heavy payment, and enforced... read more