2 Kings 21:7

Manasseh even took the carved Asherah pole he had made and set it up in the temple, of which the LORD had said to David and his son Solomon, "In this temple and in Jerusalem, which I have chosen out of all the tribes of Israel, I will establish My Name forever.

Study Bible

Manasseh even set up
The name "Manasseh" in Hebrew means "causing to forget," which is tragically fitting for a king who led Judah into deep idolatry, causing them to forget the ways of the LORD. The phrase "set up" indicates a deliberate action, a conscious decision to place something in a position of prominence. This act of setting up an idol in the temple was a direct affront to God, showing a willful rebellion against the covenant established with Israel.

the carved image of Asherah
"Asherah" was a Canaanite goddess associated with fertility and was often represented by a wooden pole or carved image. The Hebrew word for "carved image" suggests an idol crafted with skill and intent, highlighting the seriousness of Manasseh's sin. This idol was not just any idol but one that symbolized the syncretism and moral decay that had infiltrated Judah, leading them away from the worship of Yahweh.

he had made
The phrase "he had made" underscores Manasseh's personal involvement in the creation of this idol. It was not merely inherited or found; it was crafted under his direction. This personal involvement signifies a deep-seated apostasy, as the king himself was actively participating in the creation and promotion of idolatry.

in the house
The "house" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, the sacred place where God's presence dwelt among His people. By placing an idol in the temple, Manasseh was defiling the very heart of Israel's worship. This act was not just a political or cultural statement but a spiritual abomination, directly challenging the holiness of God’s dwelling place.

of which the LORD had said
This phrase reminds us of the divine authority and the sacred promises associated with the temple. The LORD's words are eternal and unchanging, and His declarations about the temple were meant to establish it as a place of pure worship. Manasseh's actions were in direct violation of God's explicit commands, showing a blatant disregard for divine instruction.

to David and to his son Solomon
David and Solomon were chosen by God to lead Israel and to establish the temple as a central place of worship. The mention of these two kings serves as a reminder of the covenantal promises and the legacy of faithfulness that Manasseh was abandoning. It highlights the contrast between the godly leadership of David and Solomon and the apostasy of Manasseh.

In this house and in Jerusalem
The specificity of "this house" and "Jerusalem" emphasizes the unique role of the temple and the city as the spiritual center of Israel. Jerusalem was chosen by God as the place where His name would dwell, making Manasseh's idolatry even more egregious. It was a desecration of the chosen city and the sacred space meant for the worship of Yahweh alone.

which I have chosen out of all the tribes of Israel
God's choice of Jerusalem and the temple was an act of divine election, setting it apart from all other places. This choice was a sign of God's special relationship with Israel, a relationship that Manasseh was undermining through his idolatry. The phrase underscores the gravity of Manasseh's sin, as it was a rejection of God's sovereign choice and favor.

I will establish My Name forever
The promise to "establish My Name forever" speaks to the enduring nature of God's covenant with Israel. His name represents His presence, authority, and character. Manasseh's actions were a direct challenge to this promise, attempting to replace the eternal name of Yahweh with the transient and false gods of the nations. Yet, despite Manasseh's rebellion, God's promises remain steadfast, offering hope for redemption and restoration.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Manasseh
King of Judah who reigned for 55 years and was known for his idolatrous practices, including setting up an idol in the temple.

2. Asherah
A Canaanite goddess often associated with fertility and worshiped through carved images or poles.

3. The House of the LORD
Refers to the temple in Jerusalem, a sacred place where God's presence dwelt among His people.

4. David
The second king of Israel, known for his heart for God and establishing Jerusalem as the political and spiritual center of Israel.

5. Solomon
Son of David, known for building the temple in Jerusalem, which was meant to be a dwelling place for God's Name.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Idolatry
Idolatry is a direct violation of God's commandments and leads to spiritual decay. We must guard our hearts against modern forms of idolatry, such as materialism or self-worship.

The Sanctity of God's Dwelling Place
The temple was a sacred space chosen by God. Today, believers are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and we must live in a way that honors God's presence within us.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Manasseh's actions led to severe consequences for Judah. Disobedience to God can lead to personal and communal suffering, reminding us to align our lives with God's will.

The Hope of Repentance
Despite Manasseh's grave sins, his account ends with repentance and restoration. This teaches us that no one is beyond God's grace and forgiveness if they turn back to Him.

The Importance of Spiritual Leadership
As leaders, our actions can lead others toward or away from God. We must strive to lead by example, fostering environments that honor God.

Bible Study Questions

1. What modern "idols" might we be tempted to set up in our own lives, and how can we guard against them?

2. How does understanding the significance of the temple in Jerusalem enhance our appreciation of being the temple of the Holy Spirit today?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our personal and communal worship aligns with God's instructions?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's forgiveness after repentance. How did it change your relationship with Him?

5. How can we, as spiritual leaders in our families or communities, ensure that we are leading others toward God rather than away from Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:3-5
This passage outlines the first and second commandments, which prohibit idolatry and the making of carved images, directly relating to Manasseh's actions.

1 Kings 9:3
God’s promise to Solomon that His eyes and heart will be perpetually on the temple, highlighting the significance of the temple as a place of divine presence.

2 Chronicles 33:12-13
Manasseh's eventual repentance, showing God's mercy and willingness to forgive even the gravest sins.

Deuteronomy 12:5
God's command to seek the place He chooses to put His Name, emphasizing the importance of worshiping God in the manner He prescribes.