Old Testament

2 Kings 15:38

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

Jotham died and was buried with his ancestors in the city of David. His son Ahaz became king after him.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

And Jotham slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David his father: and Ahaz his son reigned in his stead.

What 2 Kings 15:38 means

Plain-English insight for readers

Jotham was a king who ruled with integrity and made significant contributions to his kingdom. After his death, he was laid to rest in the city of David, a place of honor for past leaders. His son, Ahaz, took over the throne, continuing the legacy of leadership. This transition highlights the importance of family and succession in leadership roles. Jotham's reign is remembered for its stability, and his burial signifies respect for his contributions. The city of David serves as a reminder of the history and heritage that shaped the nation. As we reflect on Jotham's life, we can consider how our actions and decisions impact those who come after us, especially our families. The legacy we leave behind can influence future generations, just as Jotham's life influenced Ahaz's reign. Understanding this connection can inspire us to lead with purpose and integrity, ensuring that we build a foundation for those who follow us in life and leadership. Our choices today can echo in the lives of others tomorrow.

How to apply 2 Kings 15:38 to your life

Consider how your actions today will affect those around you, especially your family. Strive to lead with integrity and purpose, knowing that your choices can shape the future. Reflect on the legacy you want to leave behind and work towards it daily. Your influence can inspire others long after you're gone. Make every moment count for future generations.

Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Rachel smiling as she holds her newborn son Joseph inside a lamp-lit tent

Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Joseph, Jacob's son

Wide frontal view of the Great Ziggurat of Ur, with a central brick stair rising between broad buttressed mud-brick walls in a hazy desert setting.

Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Ur

The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about 2 Kings 15:38

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying 2 Kings 15:38

At a Glance — the Book of 2 Kings

Author
Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
Written
Around 560 BC
Genre
Historical narrative
Original Audience
Exiled Israelites in Babylon

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does 2 Kings 15:38 tell us about Jotham's reign?

2 Kings 15:38 highlights Jotham's death and burial in the city of David, indicating he was a respected king. His reign is noted for stability and integrity, suggesting he made positive contributions to his kingdom. The verse also emphasizes the importance of succession, as his son Ahaz took over the throne, continuing the royal lineage.

Why is the city of David significant in the context of Jotham's burial?

The city of David is significant as it represents a place of honor for past kings and leaders of Israel. Jotham's burial there signifies respect for his contributions and legacy. This location is historically important, as it symbolizes the heritage and continuity of leadership in Israel, reinforcing the connection between past rulers and future generations.

What can we learn about leadership from Jotham's story?

Jotham's story teaches us the importance of leading with integrity and purpose. His reign was marked by stability, which reflects the impact of ethical leadership on a nation. As he passed the throne to his son Ahaz, it underscores the significance of preparing future leaders and the legacy we leave behind. Effective leadership involves making choices that positively influence those who follow.

How does Jotham's legacy affect Ahaz's reign?

Jotham's legacy set a foundation for Ahaz's reign, as he inherited the kingdom established by his father. The stability and integrity of Jotham's leadership likely influenced Ahaz's approach to ruling. This transition illustrates how the actions and decisions of one generation can shape the leadership style and challenges faced by the next, emphasizing the importance of a strong legacy.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.