Topical Encyclopedia Ahaz, the son of Jotham and king of Judah, reigned from approximately 732 to 716 BC. His reign is noted for its significant departure from the religious practices established by his forefathers, as he embraced idolatry and formed alliances that were contrary to the will of God. Ahaz's death marks the end of a tumultuous period in Judah's history, characterized by spiritual decline and political instability.Reign and Religious Practices Ahaz ascended to the throne at the age of twenty and reigned for sixteen years in Jerusalem. His reign is documented in 2 Kings 16, 2 Chronicles 28, and Isaiah 7. Unlike his father Jotham, Ahaz did not do what was right in the eyes of the LORD. Instead, he followed the detestable practices of the nations the LORD had driven out before the Israelites. He even sacrificed his own son in the fire, engaging in the abominable practices of the surrounding nations (2 Kings 16:3-4). Ahaz's religious apostasy included the construction of high places, the making of idols, and the worship of Baal. He also desecrated the temple of the LORD by altering its structure and introducing a pagan altar modeled after one he saw in Damascus (2 Kings 16:10-16). His actions provoked the LORD's anger and led to significant consequences for the kingdom of Judah. Political Alliances and Consequences During Ahaz's reign, Judah faced threats from the northern kingdom of Israel and Aram (Syria). In response, Ahaz sought assistance from Tiglath-Pileser III, the king of Assyria, rather than relying on the LORD. He sent silver and gold from the temple and royal treasury as tribute to secure Assyrian support (2 Kings 16:7-8). This alliance, however, came at a great cost, as it placed Judah under Assyrian influence and led to further spiritual and political decline. The prophet Isaiah confronted Ahaz, urging him to trust in the LORD rather than foreign powers. Isaiah's prophecy of Immanuel (Isaiah 7:14) was delivered during this time, offering a sign of hope and divine intervention despite Ahaz's lack of faith. Death and Burial Ahaz's death is recorded in 2 Kings 16:20 and 2 Chronicles 28:27. He died after a reign marked by idolatry and political subservience to Assyria. The chronicler notes that Ahaz was buried in the city of Jerusalem, but not in the tombs of the kings of Israel, indicating a lack of honor due to his unfaithfulness to the LORD (2 Chronicles 28:27). Ahaz was succeeded by his son Hezekiah, who would lead a significant religious reform and restoration in Judah, turning the nation back to the worship of the LORD. The contrast between Ahaz and Hezekiah highlights the impact of leadership on the spiritual direction of a nation and underscores the importance of faithfulness to God's covenant. Subtopics Ahaz: King of Judah, Son and Successor of Jotham Ahaz: King of Judah, Son and Successor of Jotham: Idolatrous Abominations of Ahaz: King of Judah, Son and Successor of Jotham: Prophecies Concerning Ahaz: King of Judah, Son and Successor of Jotham: Prophets in the Reign of Ahaz: King of Judah, Son and Successor of Jotham: Succeeded by Hezekiah Ahaz: King of Judah, Son and Successor of Jotham: Sundial of Related Terms |