Learn more about Nehushta

Introduction to Nehushta

Nehushta is a lesser-known but important female figure in the Bible, primarily recognized as the mother of King Jehoiachin of Judah. Her name appears in the context of the fall of Jerusalem and the Babylonian exile, highlighting her royal status during a pivotal and tragic era in Israelite history. The name “Nehushta” is derived from the Hebrew word nəḥuštâ (נְחֻשְׁתָּא), which means “bronze” or “copper.” This name may reflect a cultural tendency in ancient times to use names associated with materials of strength or value.

Nehushta Pronunciation

“Nehushta” is pronounced as neh-HOOSH-tuh, with the emphasis on the second syllable.

Nehushta in the Bible

Nehushta is mentioned in two key passages of the Old Testament, both in the context of the final days of the kingdom of Judah:

• 2 Kings 24:8: “Jehoiachin was eighteen years old when he began to reign, and he reigned in Jerusalem three months. His mother’s name was Nehushta the daughter of Elnathan of Jerusalem.”
• Jeremiah 52:31: This passage recaps the fall of Jerusalem and Jehoiachin’s later release from prison. While Nehushta is not named directly in this verse, the context continues to highlight the legacy of her son, indirectly reflecting on her role as the queen mother.

Nehushta’s presence in the biblical text is brief but notable. She is identified as the daughter of Elnathan, a name that appears multiple times in the Book of Jeremiah and may link her family to influential figures in the royal court. Being the mother of the last legitimate Davidic king before the Babylonian exile lends her a symbolic role as the matriarch of a fallen dynasty.

Historical and Biblical Context

Jehoiachin, Nehushta’s son, reigned during a critical moment in Judah’s history. His brief three-month reign ended with the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem and his subsequent exile to Babylon in 597 BCE. Nehushta likely accompanied her son into exile, as was customary for royal families captured by conquering empires.

In this context, Nehushta's life represents the collapse of Davidic sovereignty in Judah and the beginning of the Jewish diaspora under Babylonian rule. Though she is not described in terms of personal actions or character, her inclusion in the narrative underscores the political and familial shifts occurring during this catastrophic period.

Related Themes and Meanings to Nehushta

• Exile: Nehushta’s life was directly impacted by the Babylonian exile, a central theme in the prophetic literature and a turning point in Israelite history.
• Royal Lineage: As the queen mother, she was part of the Davidic line, an important theological concept that connects to messianic expectations in later biblical writings.
• Symbolism of Bronze: Her name, meaning “bronze,” might evoke notions of strength, judgment, or value in Hebrew thought. Bronze was a significant metal in ancient Israelite culture and worship, often used in tabernacle and temple furnishings.

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Nehushta

• Nehushta is one of the few named women in the Old Testament who is explicitly identified as the mother of a king, providing insight into the role and recognition of royal women in ancient Judah.
• Her father, Elnathan of Jerusalem, may be the same Elnathan mentioned in Jeremiah as a royal official, suggesting that Nehushta came from an influential family before marrying into the royal household.
• The brevity of her mention in the text belies the significance of her place in history—as a witness to the downfall of her nation and the exile of her people.
• Despite Jehoiachin’s capture, his later release from prison and continued recognition in Babylon suggest that the Davidic line, of which Nehushta was a vital part, retained symbolic power and hope for restoration.

Conclusion

Though mentioned only briefly, Nehushta’s name endures in the biblical record as a mother of a king and a figure of royal lineage at the threshold of national disaster. Her presence in the narrative invites reflection on the roles of women in royal and prophetic history, especially during moments of profound transition and loss. The strength implied by her name, “bronze,” is fitting for a woman who stood at the edge of Israel’s darkest hour.