Where and when was the phrase "great jumping Jehosphat" come from?

Answer 1

From ABC NewsRadio: "Nigel Rees in his dictionary of idioms and cliches labels this “a mild expletive, taking a curious name from the Old Testament and adding an alliterative adjective”. The Oxford English Dictionary records it from 1857, and says it’s of American origin. As to who the original Jehoshaphat was – well there are several historical figures bearing this name in the Old Testament: One was the son and successor of Asa as king of Judah. He occupied the throne for 25 years – and made a number of disastrous political alliances. Another was the father of Jehu. A third was an official in King David’s court, where he’s called a “recorder” or “secretary of state”. And a fourth was an official under King Solomon. But the real point is that it’s an odd, almost a comic name, hence its use as a mild and jocular expletive."

Answer 2

I couldn't tell you, but what I've always wondered is, who the heck is Jehosphat?

Answer 3

Jehosaphat was a wealthy king of Jerusalem. One day an army from the east march on Jerusalem to take his gold. Jehosaphat told the people not to worry that the battle would be his and Judas's on the following day. The people let out a joyous cry "Great Jumping Jehosaphat".

Answer 4

From Rockadoodle, the movie?