2 CHRONICLES 33

THE WICKED REIGNS OF MANASSEH + AMNON

After Hezekiah’s death, his son Manasseh begins his reign in Judah at the young age of twelve. Manasseh angers God with his evil ways. He rebuilds the high places, creates altars of Baal, consults mediums and fortune tellers, and participates in child sacrifice. Even the temple, once used to honor God, is made into a place of idol worship. Manasseh undoes the good deeds of the previous righteous kings, leading Judah further into sin and rebellion. Through the voice of the prophets, God sends a warning of denouncement against Manasseh’s reign.

Eventually, God intervenes, and Manasseh is captured and bound with hooks and chains by the Assyrians and left in Babylon. Manasseh responds to God’s actions, repenting and humbling himself before God. Because of this, God brings Manasseh back to Jerusalem. Afterward, Manasseh removes foreign gods and idols and makes altars to bring sacrifices to God.

After the death of Manasseh, his son Amnon reigns in Judah for two years. Amnon is wicked, unfaithful to God, and unrepentant. During his reign, his servants conspire against him and murder him, making his son Josiah the new king over Judah.