Manasseh, the son of Hezekiah, was the king of Judah who reigned for fifty-five years, making him the longest-reigning monarch in the history of the Kingdom of Judah. His reign is noted for its significant departure from the religious reforms of his father, Hezekiah, as he led the nation into idolatry and practices that were abominable in the sight of the LORD. Despite his initial rebellion against God, Manasseh's life took a pivotal turn following his captivity by the Assyrians, which led to his repentance and subsequent efforts to restore the worship of Yahweh in Judah.

Reign and Repentance

Manasseh's reign is detailed in 2 Kings 21 and 2 Chronicles 33. Initially, he "did evil in the sight of the LORD" (2 Kings 21:2), engaging in idolatry, rebuilding high places, erecting altars for Baal, and even sacrificing his own son in the fire. His actions provoked the LORD to anger, and the prophets foretold disaster for Jerusalem and Judah because of his sins (2 Kings 21:10-15).

However, the narrative in 2 Chronicles 33 provides a more comprehensive account of Manasseh's life, including his repentance. After being taken captive by the Assyrians, Manasseh "humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers" (2 Chronicles 33:12). In his distress, he sought the LORD, and God was moved by his entreaty, allowing him to return to Jerusalem and his kingdom. Upon his return, Manasseh endeavored to undo the wrongs he had committed by removing foreign gods and idols from the temple and restoring the altar of the LORD (2 Chronicles 33:15-16).

Death and Burial

The account of Manasseh's death is succinctly recorded in 2 Kings 21:18 and 2 Chronicles 33:20. The Berean Standard Bible states, "And Manasseh rested with his fathers and was buried in his palace garden, the garden of Uzza. And his son Amon reigned in his place" (2 Kings 21:18). Similarly, 2 Chronicles 33:20 notes, "So Manasseh rested with his fathers and was buried in his palace. And his son Amon became king in his place" .

The mention of the "garden of Uzza" as his burial place is significant, as it indicates a departure from the traditional burial site of the kings of Judah, which was the City of David. This location may reflect the tumultuous nature of his reign and the mixed legacy he left behind. Despite his repentance and efforts to restore true worship, the impact of his earlier sins had lasting consequences for Judah, as his son Amon followed in his initial footsteps of idolatry.

Manasseh's life serves as a profound example of the possibility of redemption and the mercy of God, even for those who have strayed far from His commandments. His account is a testament to the transformative power of genuine repentance and the enduring hope for restoration with God.