Jehoiachin
The King Taken into Exile
Name Information
- Meaning: "The Lord establishes"
- Language of Origin: Hebrew
- Gender Usage: Masculine
Jehoiachin was king of Judah for only three months before surrendering to Babylon. Taken into exile, he lived in captivity for decades until King Evil-Merodach of Babylon released him and honored him at his table. His story shows both the judgment of God and a glimpse of hope for David’s line during exile.
⏰ Judah’s Last Kings / Babylonian Exile
Roles
- King of Judah
- Exile in Babylon
Relationships
- Father: Jehoiakim
- Grandfather: Josiah
- Enemy: Nebuchadnezzar II
Story
Jehoiachin became king at 18 years old during Babylon’s siege.
He surrendered to Nebuchadnezzar and was taken to Babylon with treasures from the temple.
Spent 37 years in captivity before being released and honored at the king’s table.
His life in exile represented both judgment and the preservation of David’s promise.
Spiritual Significance
- Reigned only three months before Babylon captured Jerusalem.
- Surrendered peacefully, which spared Jerusalem from total destruction at that time.
- Lived in Babylonian prison for 37 years before being released.
- His release by Evil-Merodach symbolized hope for the continuation of David’s royal line.
What We Can Learn
- God’s promises to David remain even through judgment and exile.
- Even in captivity, God can show mercy and restore dignity.
- Leadership decisions have lasting consequences for a nation.
Memory Verses
In the thirty-seventh year of the exile of Jehoiachin... Evil-Merodach king of Babylon released him from prison.
— 2 Kings 25:27
Key Passages
- 2 Kings 24:8–17
- 2 Kings 25:27–30
- Jeremiah 22:24–30
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