He was twenty-five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned sixteen years in Jerusalem. His mother's name was Jerusha daughter of Zadok — Jotham's accession at twenty-five years (slightly older than many Judean kings at their formal coronation, given he already rules as regent) marks his formal elevation. His mother's name, Jerusha (יְרוּשָׁה, *Yerushah*), is noted as daughter of Zadok, possibly the priestly family. The maternal notice, again emphasizing Jerusalem origins, suggests priestly legitimation. His sixteen-year reign parallels Pekah's sixteen years—contemporaries who represent the last generations before the exile.

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