Bible Figure
Jeconiah
Biblical figure; 19th monarch of the Kingdom of Judah
Jeconiah, also called Jehoiachin or Coniah, was a king of Judah who reigned only three months before surrendering Jerusalem to Nebuchadnezzar and being exiled to Babylon.
Biography
Jehoiachin succeeded Jehoiakim while Babylonian forces threatened Jerusalem. Nebuchadnezzar besieged the city, and Jehoiachin surrendered with members of the royal household and officials. The Babylonians carried away Temple and palace treasures and deported the king, leaders, craftsmen, and soldiers, installing his uncle Mattaniah, renamed Zedekiah, as king. Jeremiah used Jeconiah as a symbol of judgment on the royal house. Decades later, after Nebuchadnezzar's death, the new Babylonian king Evil-merodach released Jehoiachin from prison, spoke kindly to him, and gave him an honored place and regular allowance.
Biblical Significance
Jeconiah's exile marked a decisive stage in Jerusalem's fall. His later release provides a small note of hope at the end of Kings, showing the Davidic royal line preserved even in exile.