◄ 2 Kings 20:21 ►
And Hezekiah rested with his fathers, and his son Manasseh reigned in his place.
Study Bible
And Hezekiah rested
The phrase "rested" is a euphemism for death, often used in the Old Testament to denote the passing of a king or patriarch. The Hebrew word used here is "שָׁכַב" (shakab), which means to lie down or to sleep. This term reflects the belief in a peaceful transition from life to death for those who are faithful to God. Hezekiah's rest signifies the end of a significant era in Judah's history, marked by his reforms and faithfulness to God. His death invites reflection on the legacy of a life lived in service to God and the hope of eternal rest for the faithful.

with his fathers
This phrase indicates burial in the family tomb, a common practice for kings of Judah. It signifies continuity and connection with one's ancestors, emphasizing the importance of family lineage and heritage in ancient Israelite culture. The phrase also implies a sense of honor and respect, as Hezekiah is laid to rest among the revered figures of his lineage. This continuity underscores the biblical theme of God's covenantal promises being passed down through generations.

and his son Manasseh
Manasseh, whose name means "causing to forget" in Hebrew, becomes a pivotal figure in Judah's history. His ascension marks a dramatic shift from his father's righteous reign to one characterized by idolatry and apostasy. The mention of Manasseh here foreshadows the challenges and spiritual decline that Judah will face under his rule. This transition serves as a reminder of the importance of godly leadership and the impact of a leader's faithfulness—or lack thereof—on a nation.

became king in his place
The phrase "in his place" indicates the succession of the throne, a common practice in monarchies. This transition of power is significant in the biblical narrative, as it highlights the divine sovereignty over the rise and fall of kings. Despite human actions, God remains in control, orchestrating history according to His divine plan. The succession also serves as a reminder of the temporal nature of earthly power and the enduring nature of God's kingdom. The change in leadership from Hezekiah to Manasseh sets the stage for the unfolding of God's redemptive purposes, even amidst human failure.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Hezekiah
Hezekiah was the king of Judah known for his faithfulness to God, his reforms to restore proper worship, and his reliance on God during the Assyrian siege. His reign is marked by a return to the worship of Yahweh and the removal of idolatry.

2. Manasseh
Manasseh was the son of Hezekiah who succeeded him as king. His reign is noted for its length and for leading Judah into idolatry, which had long-lasting negative effects on the nation.

3. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Jerusalem is located. It was the center of Jewish worship and the Davidic line of kings.

4. Rested with his fathers
This phrase is a Hebrew idiom indicating that Hezekiah died and was buried, joining his ancestors in death.

5. Transition of Power
The event of Hezekiah's death and Manasseh's ascension marks a significant transition in the leadership of Judah, with implications for the nation's spiritual direction.
Teaching Points
The Legacy of Leadership
Hezekiah's faithfulness set a standard for leadership, but the transition to Manasseh shows how quickly a legacy can change. Leaders must be diligent in preparing successors who will continue in faithfulness.

The Impact of Generational Choices
The shift from Hezekiah to Manasseh illustrates the profound impact one generation's choices can have on the next. It is crucial to instill godly values in the next generation.

The Importance of Spiritual Vigilance
Despite Hezekiah's reforms, the nation quickly turned to idolatry under Manasseh. This highlights the need for constant spiritual vigilance and renewal.

God's Sovereignty in Leadership Transitions
While human leaders change, God's sovereign plan continues. Believers can trust in God's ultimate control over leadership transitions.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does Hezekiah's life and leadership inspire you to live faithfully in your own context?

2. In what ways can you ensure that your spiritual legacy positively impacts the next generation?

3. What lessons can be learned from the transition between Hezekiah and Manasseh regarding the importance of spiritual vigilance?

4. How do the actions of Manasseh reflect the warnings given in Deuteronomy about the consequences of idolatry?

5. How can you trust in God's sovereignty during times of leadership change in your personal life or community?
Connections to Other Scriptures
2 Chronicles 32:33
This passage parallels 2 Kings 20:21, providing additional details about Hezekiah's burial and the honor he received from the people of Judah.

2 Kings 21:1-18
These verses describe Manasseh's reign and his actions, which contrast sharply with his father Hezekiah's faithfulness.

Isaiah 38-39
These chapters provide insight into Hezekiah's life, including his illness, recovery, and the prophecy concerning the future of Judah.

Deuteronomy 5:9-10
This passage speaks to the generational impact of faithfulness and disobedience, relevant to the transition from Hezekiah to Manasseh.
Sermons
DeathD. Thomas 2 Kings 20:1-21
Hezekiah and the AmbassadorsC.H. Irwin 2 Kings 20:12-21
The Good Deeds of HezekiahJ. Orr 2 Kings 20:20, 21
People
Ahaz, Amoz, Baladan, Berodachbaladan, David, Hezekiah, Isaiah, Manasseh
Places
Ararat, Assyria, Babylon
Topics
Fathers, Hezekiah, Hezeki'ah, Lieth, Manasseh, Manas'seh, Reign, Reigned, Rest, Rested, Slept, Stead, Succeeded
Dictionary of Bible Themes
2 Kings 20:21

     5535   sleep, and death

Library
An Old-Fashioned Home
TEXT: "What have they seen in thy house?"--2 Kings 20:15. If you will tell me what is in your own house by your own choice I will tell you the story of your home life and will be able to inform you whether yours is a home in which there is harmony and peace or confusion and despair. Let me read the names of the guests in your guest book, allow me to study the titles of the books in your library in which you have special delight, permit me to scan your magazines which you particularly like, allow …
J. Wilbur Chapman—And Judas Iscariot

Sennacherib (705-681 B. C. )
The struggle of Sennacherib with Judaea and Egypt--Destruction of Babylon. Sennacherib either failed to inherit his father's good fortune, or lacked his ability.* He was not deficient in military genius, nor in the energy necessary to withstand the various enemies who rose against him at widely removed points of his frontier, but he had neither the adaptability of character nor the delicate tact required to manage successfully the heterogeneous elements combined under his sway. * The two principal …
G. Maspero—History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 8

God's Sovereignty Defined
"Thine, O LORD, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is Thine; Thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and Thou art exalted as Head above all" (1 Chron. 29:11). The Sovereignty of God is an expression that once was generally understood. It was a phrase commonly used in religious literature. It was a theme frequently expounded in the pulpit. It was a truth which brought comfort to many hearts, and gave virility and stability …
Arthur W. Pink—The Sovereignty of God

That for the Most Part the Occupation of Government Dissipates the Solidity of the Mind.
Often the care of government, when undertaken, distracts the heart in divers directions; and one is found unequal to dealing with particular things, while with confused mind divided among many. Whence a certain wise man providently dissuades, saying, My son, meddle not with many matters (Ecclus. xi. 10); because, that is, the mind is by no means collected on the plan of any single work while parted among divers. And, when it is drawn abroad by unwonted care, it is emptied of the solidity of inward …
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great

The World, Created by God, Still Cherished and Protected by Him. Each and all of Its Parts Governed by his Providence.
1. Even the wicked, under the guidance of carnal sense, acknowledge that God is the Creator. The godly acknowledge not this only, but that he is a most wise and powerful governor and preserver of all created objects. In so doing, they lean on the Word of God, some passages from which are produced. 2. Refutation of the Epicureans, who oppose fortune and fortuitous causes to Divine Providence, as taught in Scripture. The sun, a bright manifestation of Divine Providence. 3. Figment of the Sophists as …
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

Interpretation of Prophecy.
1. The scriptural idea of prophecy is widely removed from that of human foresight and presentiment. It is that of a revelation made by the Holy Spirit respecting the future, always in the interest of God's kingdom. It is no part of the plan of prophecy to gratify vain curiosity respecting "the times or the seasons which the Father hath put in his own power." Acts 1:7. "Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God"--this is its key-note. In its form it is carefully adapted to this great end. …
E. P. Barrows—Companion to the Bible

The Historical Books.
1. In the Pentateuch we have the establishment of the Theocracy, with the preparatory and accompanying history pertaining to it. The province of the historical books is to unfold its practiced working, and to show how, under the divine superintendence and guidance, it accomplished the end for which it was given. They contain, therefore, primarily, a history of God's dealings with the covenant people under the economy which he had imposed upon them. They look at the course of human events on the …
E. P. Barrows—Companion to the Bible

The Kingdom of Judah.
II K. 18-25; II Chron. 28-36. Note: This period covers the time from the fail of Israel to the fall of Judah. It begins in the sixth year of the reign of Hezekiah, whose name is given as the first king of the period since most of his reign was in this instead of the former period. The Kings of this Period. 13. Hezekiah, 2 K. 18:1-20-21; 2 Chron. 29:1-32:33. Reigned 29 years and died. 14. Manasseh, 2 K. 21:1-18; 2 Chron. 33:1-20. Reigned 55 year and died. 15. Amon, 2 K. 21:19-26; 2 Chron. 33:20-25. …
Josiah Blake Tidwell—The Bible Period by Period

The Christian Struggling under Great and Heavy Affliction.
1. Here it is advised--that afflictions should only be expected.--2. That the righteous hand of God should be acknowledged in them when they come.--3. That they should be borne with patience.--4. That the divine conduct in them should be cordially approved.--5. That thankfulness should be maintained in the midst of trials.--6. That the design of afflictions should be diligently inquired into, and all proper assistance taken in discovering it.--7. That, when it is discovered, it should humbly be complied …
Philip Doddridge—The Rise and Progress of Religion in the Soul

Of the Sacraments.
1. Of the sacraments in general. A sacrament defined. 2. Meaning of the word sacrament. 3. Definition explained. Why God seals his promises to us by sacraments. 4. The word which ought to accompany the element, that the sacrament may be complete. 5. Error of those who attempt to separate the word, or promise of God, from the element. 6. Why sacraments are called Signs of the Covenant. 7. They are such signs, though the wicked should receive them, but are signs of grace only to believers. 8. Objections …
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

Use to be Made of the Doctrine of Providence.
Sections. 1. Summary of the doctrine of Divine Providence. 1. It embraces the future and the past. 2. It works by means, without means, and against means. 3. Mankind, and particularly the Church, the object of special care. 4. The mode of administration usually secret, but always just. This last point more fully considered. 2. The profane denial that the world is governed by the secret counsel of God, refuted by passages of Scripture. Salutary counsel. 3. This doctrine, as to the secret counsel of …
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

Meditations of the True Manner of Practising Piety on the Sabbath-Day.
Almighty God will have himself worshipped, not only in a private manner by private persons and families, but also in a more public sort, of all the godly joined together in a visible church; that by this means he may be known not only to be the God and Lord of every Singular person, but also of the creatures of the whole universal world. Question--But why do not we Christians under the New, keep the Sabbath on the same seventh day on which it was kept under the Old Testament? I answer--Because our …
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety

A Prayer when one Begins to be Sick.
O most righteous Judge, yet in Jesus Christ my gracious Father! I, wretched sinner, do here return unto thee, though driven with pain and sickness, like the prodigal child with want and hunger. I acknowledge that this sickness and pain comes not by blind chance or fortune, but by thy divine providence and special appointment. It is the stroke of thy heavy hand, which my sins have justly deserved; and the things that I feared are now fallen upon me (Job iii. 25.) Yet do I well perceive that in wrath …
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety

A Cloud of Witnesses.
"By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau, even concerning things to come. By faith Jacob, when he was a-dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff. By faith Joseph, when his end was nigh, made mention of the departure of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones.... By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they had been compassed about for seven days. By faith Rahab the harlot perished not with them that were disobedient, …
Thomas Charles Edwards—The Expositor's Bible: The Epistle to the Hebrews

Kings
The book[1] of Kings is strikingly unlike any modern historical narrative. Its comparative brevity, its curious perspective, and-with some brilliant exceptions--its relative monotony, are obvious to the most cursory perusal, and to understand these things is, in large measure, to understand the book. It covers a period of no less than four centuries. Beginning with the death of David and the accession of Solomon (1 Kings i., ii.) it traverses his reign with considerable fulness (1 Kings iii.-xi.), …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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