Topical Encyclopedia Introduction:Uzziah, also known as Azariah, was a king of Judah whose reign is noted for its prosperity and military success, as well as for his eventual downfall due to pride. His account is primarily found in the books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles. Uzziah's reign is significant in the history of Judah, as it marked a period of relative peace and expansion. Name and Identity: Uzziah, meaning "The LORD is my strength," is also referred to as Azariah, meaning "The LORD has helped." The dual naming is not uncommon in the Old Testament, reflecting different aspects of his character and reign. He was the son of Amaziah and became king at the age of sixteen. Reign and Achievements: Uzziah's reign lasted for 52 years, making it one of the longest in the history of Judah. His rule is characterized by military conquests, economic prosperity, and significant building projects. According to 2 Chronicles 26:4-5 , "He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father Amaziah had done. He sought God during the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of God. As long as he sought the LORD, God gave him success." Uzziah fortified Jerusalem, built towers, and improved the infrastructure of the kingdom. He also expanded Judah's territory and strengthened its military might, as noted in 2 Chronicles 26:6-15. His innovations included the development of advanced military equipment, which contributed to his military successes. Religious Life: Uzziah's early reign was marked by faithfulness to God, and he was guided by the prophet Zechariah. His commitment to seeking the LORD brought prosperity to Judah. However, as his power grew, so did his pride, leading to a significant transgression against the sacred duties of the priesthood. Downfall and Leprosy: Uzziah's downfall came when he attempted to burn incense in the temple, a duty reserved for the priests, the descendants of Aaron. This act of pride and disobedience is recorded in 2 Chronicles 26:16-21. The LORD struck him with leprosy, and he lived in isolation until his death. "King Uzziah had leprosy until the day of his death. He lived in a separate house, leprous and excluded from the house of the LORD" (2 Chronicles 26:21). Legacy: Despite his tragic end, Uzziah's reign is remembered for its contributions to the strength and stability of Judah. His account serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and the importance of humility before God. Uzziah was buried in the field of the kings, a testament to his impact on the nation, though he was not buried in the royal tombs due to his leprosy. References in Prophecy: Uzziah's reign is also significant in the prophetic literature. The prophet Isaiah began his ministry in the year of Uzziah's death, as noted in Isaiah 6:1, which marks a transition in the spiritual and political landscape of Judah. His reign provides a backdrop for understanding the messages of the prophets during this period. Conclusion: Uzziah's life and reign offer valuable lessons on leadership, faithfulness, and the perils of pride. His account is a reminder of the importance of seeking God and the consequences of overstepping divine boundaries. ATS Bible Dictionary Uzziah or AzariahKing of Judah. See AZARIAH. Library The Divided Kingdom. The Call of Isaiah Concerning Jeroboam King of Israel and Jonah the Prophet; and How ... The Kingdom Op Judah. On Heresies. Appendices Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... The Old Testament and Archeology The Greater Prophets. Treatise i. On the Unity of the Church. Resources Why do some people in the Bible have more than one name? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Azariah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What was/is the importance of the gates of Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Uzziah: A Priest: Puts Away (Divorced) his Gentile Wife Uzziah: Called Azariah is Presumptuous in Burning Incense; Stricken With Leprosy; Quarantined Uzziah: Called Azariah: An Earthquake Occurred During the Reign of Uzziah: Called Azariah: Death of Uzziah: Called Azariah: Defeats the Philistines Uzziah: Called Azariah: History of, Written by Isaiah, Uzziah: Called Azariah: Jotham Regent During Quarantine of Uzziah: Called Azariah: King of Judah Uzziah: Called Azariah: Military Establishment of Uzziah: Called Azariah: Promotes Cattle Raising and Agriculture Uzziah: Called Azariah: Rebuilds Elath Uzziah: Called Azariah: Reigns Righteously Uzziah: Called Azariah: Strengthens the Fortifications of Jerusalem Uzziah: Called Azariah: Strengthens the Kingdom Related Terms |
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