Book of Jeremiah - Chapter 52 - Verse 1

When exploring the verse "Zedekiah was one and twenty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned eleven years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Hamutal the daughter of Jeremiah of Libnah," it is important to note the significance of the age at which Zedekiah began his reign. In the context of the ancient world, reaching the age of twenty-one was a significant milestone as it signified the transition into adulthood and the assumption of full responsibilities as a ruler. The mention of his mother, Hamutal, further adds to the historical context of the verse as it highlights the lineage and family ties of Zedekiah. Hamutal, as the daughter of Jeremiah of Libnah, would have played a vital role in shaping Zedekiah's upbringing and could have had influences on his reign as king. Overall, this verse provides valuable insight into the life and reign of Zedekiah, shedding light on his age, familial connections, and the historical context of his rule in Jerusalem.

Understanding the theological interpretation of this verse requires looking at the significant details mentioned. Zedekiah, who became king at the age of twenty-one, ruled over Jerusalem for eleven years before its downfall. His mother, Hamutal, is identified as the daughter of Jeremiah from Libnah. Scholars believe this detail is included to provide genealogical information and perhaps shed light on Zedekiah's background. The name Hamutal means "killed by God," which could potentially have symbolic significance in the context of Zedekiah's reign and the eventual destruction of Jerusalem. Additionally, the mention of Jeremiah from Libnah could be a way to connect Zedekiah's lineage to this specific region, adding depth to the historical context of the verse. Through word studies and theological analysis, we can glean insights into the significance of these details and their potential implications for understanding the larger narrative of the Bible.