2 Kings 21:1

Manasseh was twelve years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-five years. His mother's name was Hephzibah.

Study Bible

Manasseh
The name Manasseh is derived from the Hebrew root "נשה" (nasha), meaning "to forget" or "to cause to forget." This name is significant in the biblical narrative, as it reflects the spiritual amnesia that characterized his reign. Manasseh's rule is often remembered for leading Judah into idolatry and forgetting the covenant with God. His name serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of spiritual forgetfulness and the importance of remembering God's laws and promises.

was twelve years old
The mention of Manasseh's age when he became king highlights his youth and inexperience. At twelve, he was likely impressionable and vulnerable to the influences around him. This detail underscores the importance of godly mentorship and guidance for young leaders. It also serves as a cautionary tale about the potential consequences when young leaders are not grounded in the faith and values of their forebears.

when he became king
The transition to kingship at such a young age suggests a period of instability or urgency in the kingdom. In the ancient Near Eastern context, kingship was often hereditary, and the early ascension of a young king could indicate the untimely death of a predecessor or political maneuvering. This phrase invites reflection on the divine sovereignty over leadership transitions and the need for prayerful support of those in authority.

and he reigned in Jerusalem
Jerusalem, the city of David, holds profound theological significance as the center of worship and the location of the Temple. Manasseh's reign in this holy city is particularly tragic given his promotion of idolatry and desecration of sacred spaces. This phrase serves as a reminder of the responsibility of leaders to uphold the sanctity of places dedicated to God and the impact of their actions on the spiritual health of a nation.

fifty-five years
Manasseh's lengthy reign is notable as the longest of any king of Judah. This extended period allowed for significant influence, both positive and negative. Historically, long reigns could bring stability, but in Manasseh's case, it also meant prolonged exposure to his idolatrous practices. This duration challenges believers to consider the enduring impact of leadership and the importance of repentance and reform.

His mother’s name was Hephzibah
The inclusion of Hephzibah's name is significant, as it reflects the biblical tradition of acknowledging maternal influence. The name Hephzibah means "My delight is in her," suggesting a positive connotation. This detail invites speculation about her role in Manasseh's life and reign. It also highlights the broader biblical theme of the influence of family and upbringing on one's spiritual journey.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Manasseh
The son of Hezekiah, Manasseh became king of Judah at a young age. His reign is noted for its length and for leading Judah into idolatry and sin.

2. Hephzibah
The mother of Manasseh, her name means "My delight is in her" in Hebrew. She is mentioned briefly, indicating her role in Manasseh's life.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, where Manasseh reigned. It was the spiritual and political center of the kingdom.

4. Reign of Fifty-Five Years
Manasseh's reign was the longest of any king of Judah, marked by significant religious and moral decline.

Teaching Points

The Influence of Leadership
Manasseh's reign shows how a leader's actions can lead a nation toward or away from God. Leaders today must be mindful of their influence and seek to lead with integrity and faithfulness to God's Word.

The Impact of Parental Guidance
While Hephzibah is mentioned briefly, the role of parents in shaping the spiritual direction of their children is significant. Parents are called to nurture their children in the faith, teaching them to love and obey God.

The Possibility of Repentance
Despite Manasseh's initial rebellion, his account in 2 Chronicles 33 demonstrates that repentance is always possible. No matter how far one strays, God is willing to forgive and restore those who turn back to Him.

The Consequences of Idolatry
Manasseh's idolatry led to severe consequences for Judah, reminding us of the dangers of placing anything above God in our lives. We must guard our hearts against modern forms of idolatry.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Manasseh's age when he became king influence your understanding of his early decisions and actions as a ruler?

2. In what ways can the account of Manasseh's reign serve as a warning to contemporary leaders, both in the church and in society?

3. Reflect on the role of Hephzibah as Manasseh's mother. How can parents today ensure they are positively influencing their children's spiritual lives?

4. Considering Manasseh's eventual repentance, how can we apply the concept of God's grace and forgiveness in our own lives and relationships?

5. What are some modern-day idols that can distract us from our relationship with God, and how can we actively work to remove them from our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Chronicles 33
This chapter provides a parallel account of Manasseh's reign, including his eventual repentance and efforts to restore worship of Yahweh.

Isaiah 7:14
Hephzibah's name is echoed in the prophecy of Immanuel, where the land is called "Beulah," meaning "married," reflecting God's delight in His people.

Exodus 20:3-5
Manasseh's idolatry directly violated the commandments against worshiping other gods and making idols, highlighting the spiritual decline during his reign.