Written in the book of the kings, &c.] There is not so much found in the books of Kings which we have now, as in this place of the Chronicles. In both places we have abridged accounts only: the larger histories have long been lost. The reign of Jotham was properly the last politically prosperous reign among the Jews. Hezekiah and Josiah did much to preserve the Divine worship; but Judah continued to be cut short, till at last it was wholly ruined.

John Gill's Bible Commentary

--The people did corruptly. Perhaps Jotham was wanting towards the reformation of the land. Men may be very good, and yet not have courag and zeal to do what they might. It certainly casts blame upon the people. Jotham prospered, and became mighty. The more stedfast we ar in religion, the more mighty we are, both to resist evil, and to d good. The Lord often removes wise and pious rulers, and sends others whose follies and vices punish a people that valued not their mercies __________________________________________________________________

Original Hebrew