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.