2 Chronicles 33
Meaning of 2 Chronicles 33
2 Chronicles 33 is a chapter in the Hebrew Bible or Old Testament of the Christian Bible. It records the reign of King Manasseh and King Amon over the Kingdom of Judah, both of whom were notorious for leading the nation astray with their sinful practices, including idolatry.
The chapter first introduces Manasseh, who came to the throne at a young age and reigned for 55 years. Despite his longevity as king, he led Judah into severe idolatry, building altars for various foreign gods within the Temple of the Lord, practicing sorcery, divination, and consulting mediums and spiritualists. These actions deeply angered God.
However, in the second part of the chapter, Manasseh is captured by the Assyrians, who drag him away in chains. It is during this humiliating experience that Manasseh repents and pleads for God’s mercy. God hears his cry and Manasseh is returned to his throne in Jerusalem, where he then commits his life to restoring Judah’s relationship with God, rebuilding the city’s defenses, removing foreign gods and idols, and directing the people to serve the Lord once again.
Finally, when Manasseh dies, his son Amon becomes king. Amon fails to follow his father’s reformative example; instead, he returns to idolatry. Consequently, Amon’s reign ends quickly as he is assassinated by his officials after just two years. His young son, Josiah, then succeeds him.
The overarching ethos of the chapter is an illustration of God’s mercy and willingness to pardon even the most sinful if they sincerely repent, exemplified in Manasseh’s transformation. It contrasts this with Amon’s stubbornness in sin, leading to his early downfall.
2 Chronicles 33 kjv
2 Chronicles 33 in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible details the story of Manasseh, the son of Hezekiah, who became King of Judah after Hezekiah’s death. It’s divided into two major sections:
1. Manasseh’s Wicked Reign (33:1-10)
Manasseh, who started his reign at 12, is described as doing evil in the eyes of the Lord, in stark contrast to his father Hezekiah. He rebuilt the high places his father had demolished, set up altars for Baal, made Asherah poles and worshipped the entire host of heaven. He also built altars in the temple of the Lord. He is described as leading the people of Judah and Jerusalem astray, causing them to do more evil than the nations the Lord had destroyed before the Israelites arrival.
2. Manasseh’s Repentance and Restoration (33:11-20)
This segment covers Manasseh’s capture by Assyrian rulers and how he humbled himself before God and repented for his sins during his affliction. God, seeing his sincere remorse, forgave Manasseh and brought him back to Jerusalem. After this transformative experience, Manasseh changed his ways and began serving God. He removed the foreign gods from the temple and restored the altar of the Lord.
The last verses (33:21-25) of this chapter briefly describe the reign of Manasseh’s son Amon, which follows a similar path as his father’s early reign. He commits evil in the sight of God, does not humble himself before God and is eventually killed by his own servants.
These stories are intended to display the mercy and forgiveness of God, and the dire consequences of turning away from Him.
2 Chronicles 33 nkjv
2 Chronicles 33, part of the New King James Version (NKJV) of the Bible, details the reigns of King Manasseh and King Amon of Judah.
Manasseh became king at the age of 12, and reigned for 55 years in Jerusalem. His reign was marked by evil in the sight of the Lord. He rebuilt high places that his father Hezekiah had broken down, established altars for the Baals and made wooden images. Manasseh also made his sons pass through the fire in the valley of the Son of Hinnom and practiced soothsaying, witchcraft, and consulted mediums and spiritists which provoked the Lord.
God communicated to Manasseh and his people through his messengers but they would not listen, leading to the capture of Manasseh by the Assyrians. In his affliction, Manasseh seeked God’s favour and humbled himself greatly. Recognising his wrongdoings, he prayed to God and God received his entreaty. Manasseh then knew that the Lord was God. After this, Manasseh worked to remove foreign altars and restored the Altar of the Lord.
After Manasseh, his son Amon became king who did evil in the sight of the Lord, as his father Manasseh had done. However, Amon didn’t humble himself before the Lord and trespassed more and more. He was eventually killed by his own servants, and his son Josiah reigned in his place.
In essence, 2 Chronicles 33 tells the story of two kings — Manasseh who initially did what was evil, but humbled himself before God and was restored, and Amon who did what was evil and continued to do so until his death.
2 Chronicles 33 niv
2 Chronicles 33 is a chapter in the Old Testament of the Bible.
Manasseh Rules in Jerusalem:
The chapter begins with the account of Manasseh, who became king of Judah when he was only 12 years old. He reigned for 55 years in Jerusalem. Unfortunately, Manasseh did evil in the eyes of the LORD by setting up altars to Baal, worshipping celestial bodies, and practicing divination and witchcraft. He also constructed altars in the temple of the LORD, which is a direct violation of the LORD’s commands, and led Judah and the people of Jerusalem astray, causing them to do more evil.
Manasseh’s Sin and Repentance:
When Manasseh was captured and taken to Babylon, he repented and humbly asked for God’s mercy. In response, God brought him back to Jerusalem and gave him his kingdom again. After this, Manasseh rebuilt the outer wall and removed the foreign gods and the idol from the LORD’s house. He also restored the altar of the LORD and sacrificed fellowship offerings on it. Despite these reforms, the people of Judah continued to offer sacrifices on the high places, though only to the LORD their God.
Amon Rules in Jerusalem:
The end of the chapter talks about Amon, Manasseh’s son who succeeded him as king. Unlike his father, Amon did evil all his life without repenting. He was assassinated by his officials, who were then killed by the people of Judah. Amon’s son Josiah succeeded him as king.
The chapter highlights the themes of sin, repentance, and God’s mercy. It also stands as a warning against the dangers of idolatry and a reminder of the effect a leader can have on a nation. The chapter is part of the Deuteronomic history that includes the Books of Joshua, Judges, Samuel, and Kings, a collection presenting the theological history of the Israelites emphasizing God’s covenant and His requirements for obedience.
What is 2 Chronicles 33 all about?
2 Chronicles 33 is a chapter in the Old Testament of the Bible (part of the 2nd book of Chronicles), primarily detailing the reigns of two Judean kings, Manasseh and Amon.
The chapter begins with the reign of Manasseh, who started his rule at the age of twelve and reigned for fifty-five years in Jerusalem. Manasseh, despite his father Hezekiah’s faithful rule, is described as a king who commits many evil deeds in the eyes of the Lord. He rebuilt the high places his father had broken down, setup altars for Baals, worshiped the host of heavens, practiced soothsaying, used witchcraft, and consulted spirit mediums and wizards.
Manasseh’s actions provoke God’s anger, but Manasseh refused to listen to God and lead Judah into doing more evil than the nations which God had destroyed. As punishment, God brought the Assyrian army against him, they captured Manasseh and took him to Babylon.
While in captivity, Manasseh humbled himself and sincerely repented for his sins. God, seeing his sincere repentance, then forgave Manasseh and allowed him to return to Jerusalem. After his return, Manasseh removed false idols and restored the worship of God, but his people continued to sacrifice at high places.
The chapter ends with Manasseh’s death and the succession of his son Amon. Amon, like his father in his early years, did what was evil in the sight of God. He did not humble himself before the Lord as Manasseh his father had done but trespassed more and more. His officials conspired against him and killed him in his house. But the people of the land struck down all those who had conspired against King Amon.
Overall, 2 Chronicles 33 delivers a strong message about the consequences of leading the people away from God, and the power of repentance and redemption.
What does 2 Chronicles 33 teaches?
2 Chronicles 33 provides a detailed account of the reigns of Manasseh and Amon, two kings of Judah who were infamous for their wickedness.
Manasseh, the son of Hezekiah, did evil in the sight of God by rebuilding the high places that his father had demolished, erecting altars for Baal, and worshiping other deities. He led the people of Judah astray, encouraging them to do more evil than the nations that the Lord had destroyed before the Israelites.
God spoke to him and to his people, but they did not listen. Thus, God brought upon them the commanders of the Assyrian army, who captured Manasseh, put a hook in his nose, bound him with bronze shackles, and took him to Babylon.
In his distress, Manasseh sought the favor of God, humbled himself greatly, and prayed to Him. God heard his plea, was moved, and brought him back to Jerusalem and restored him to his kingdom. After this, Manasseh knew that God was indeed the Lord. He reversed his former evil deeds and encouraged the people to worship God.
Amon, Manasseh’s son, did evil in the sight of God as his father initially did. Unlike his father, though, he did not humble himself before God, but increased his guilt. His servants conspired against him and killed him in his own house. However, the people of the land killed all those who had conspired against King Amon.
The chapter teaches several important lessons. First, it teaches the dangers of leading astray and the consequences of turning from God. Manasseh’s wickedness led to the downfall of Judah, and God’s severe punishment. Secondly, it highlights the importance of humility and repentance. When Manasseh humbled himself and prayed, God was merciful and restored him. Lastly, it shows the importance of righteous leadership and the negative impact of wicked rulers, as seen in the rule of Amon.
A Sermon on 2 Chronicles 33
2 Chronicles 33 narrates the reign of King Manasseh and his son Amon, two kings of Judah. However, the primary focus is on Manasseh, who initially does much evil in the sight of the Lord but later experiences profound transformation.
The sermon might unfold as follows:
1. Representation of Manasseh’s Sin and Idolatry (Verses 1-9): From the very beginning of his reign, King Manasseh fostered idolatry and occult practices, showing ignorance and rebellion towards God’s commandments. His destructive actions set a poor example for his people, leading Judah and Jerusalem astray, provoking God’s anger and setting up a pattern of sin and disobedience. This part of King Manasseh’s life can be used to illustrate the destructive nature of sin and the consequences it brings upon those who choose to live in it.
2. God’s Judgement and Manasseh’s Repentance (Verses 10-13): God brings Assyrian invaders as a form of punishment towards Manasseh’s sin. Manasseh, in his affliction, turns to repentance and pleads for God’s mercy. It can be noted that sometimes, it’s in our deepest trials and uncomfortable circumstances that we truly seek God. When Manasseh humbles himself and prays, God responds mercifully, leading to a dramatic conversion. This illustrates God’s grace, patience, and willingness to forgive.
3. Manasseh’s Restoration and Reforms (Verses 14-20): After his repentance, Manasseh undertakes significant reforms, removing the false idols and restoring true worship in Jerusalem. This part of the sermon can highlight the transformative power of God’s forgiveness and the possibility of restoration after repentance. Despite his previous waywardness, Manasseh’s efforts to turn back to God resulted in positive changes for his kingdom.
4. The Brief Reign of Amon (Verses 21-25): The sermon ends with a shorter account of King Amon’s reign, a stark contrast to Manasseh. Amon, like his father initially, did evil in the eyes of the Lord and did not humble himself before God. As a result, his officials conspired against him and killed him in his palace, a tragic ending that served as a warning against persistent disobedience.
Summarily, 2 Chronicles 33 supports a sermon theme of repentance, transformation, and God’s mercy. It teaches that no one is beyond the redemptive power of God’s grace and it’s never too late to turn back to God. However, it also encapsulates the dire consequences of persistent disobedience to God’s commandments.
Key people in 2 Chronicles 33
2 Chronicles Chapter 33 primarily involves two key characters:
1. Manasseh: He was the King of Judah during this time who took over from his father Hezekiah. However, he was known for doing evil in the eyes of the Lord, following practices of heathen nations and building pagan altars in the house of the Lord, directly defying the worship of God that his father had adhered to. He led Judah and the people of Jerusalem astray, even though God had spoken against such actions. After being captured by the King of Assyria and in his suffering, Manasseh finally repented, humbling himself before God and getting rid of his idolatrous practices when he was restored to his kingdom. His life is a lesson about the severity of God’s judgment and the abundance of His grace.
2. Amon: Manasseh’s son, Amon, is also mentioned, who followed his father’s evil ways and did not humble himself before the Lord, unlike his father. Amon was eventually assassinated by his own servants after a two-year rule. His rejection of God’s ways and persistent wickedness led to his downfall.
It’s important to note that the events of 2 Chronicles 33 reiterate the broad Biblical theme of reaping what you sow, about repentance, and ultimately about God’s grace for those who sincerely seek forgiveness. This chapter presents the contrasts between the reforms of a God-fearing king (Hezekiah) and the evil doings of his son Manasseh, who only seeks the Lord after personal suffering, and Amon, who never seeks the Lord at all.
Real world examples on 2 Chronicles 33
The Book of 2 Chronicles is a biblical text from the Old Testament with chapter 33 focusing on the reigns of two Judean kings: Manasseh and his son Amon.
Here’s how some themes from this chapter might relate to real life:
1. Transformation and Repentance (verses 12-13): Manasseh, originally a very evil king, turns back to God after he is taken captive by the Assyrians, prays for forgiveness, and is brought back to his kingdom. This could relate to an individual who may have taken some wrong turns in life, became involved in harmful behaviors or practices, but eventually realizes their mistakes, changes their life and seeks forgiveness. Just like Manasseh, they might have had to hit rock-bottom before making a positive change.
2. Impact of Bad Leadership (verses 1-10, 21-25): Manasseh and Amon were both leaders who did ‘what was evil in the sight of the LORD’ which eventually led to their downfall and the suffering of their people. In the real world, this is a reminder of the impact that bad leadership can have on a community, a business, or a country. Leaders who are corrupt, selfish or unethical can cause widespread harm and damage to those under their rule.
3. Consequences of Actions (verse 11): As a direct result of his idolatry, King Manasseh is taken captive by the Assyrians. In the real world, actions also have consequences, good or bad, even if they don’t seem immediate or direct. For example, a person who continually disrespects others may find, over time, they lose their friends and have difficulty forming new relationships.
4. Passing on Bad Habits (verses 21-23): Manasseh’s son, King Amon, followed in his father’s footsteps perpetuating the evil practices of his father. This could be analogous to real-world scenarios where children sometimes perpetuate the harmful behaviors or attitudes of their parents. For example, a child who grows up in a household where lying is common might become dishonest themselves, passing on the bad habit to future generations.
Remember, in drawing parallels between ancient texts and the “real world”, it’s essential to consider the cultural and historical context in which these stories were written. Always approach these examples with open-mindedness and appreciating the value they bring in moral and ethical discussions.
Brief Explanation of 2 Chronicles 33
2 Chronicles 33 details the reigns of Manasseh and his son Amon, who were kings of Judah.
Manasseh’s reign, which begins very wickedly, is covered in the largest part of the chapter (33:1-20). He not only undoes the religious reforms of his father Hezekiah but introduces idolatry far beyond what the “nations whom the LORD had destroyed before the Israelites” (33:2) had done. Despite God’s attempts to bring him and the people back to Him, Manasseh leads his people astray, to do more evil than the nations God had destroyed before His people. However, when Manasseh is captured by the Assyrians and in great distress, he humbles himself and prays to God. God is moved by his humility and not only delivers Manasseh but also prompts him to remove foreign gods and idolatry from Judah and Jerusalem. God does listen and answer prayers, and this led to Manasseh knowing that the Lord is God indeed.
The chapter ends with a brief explanation of Amon’s reign (33:21-25). Amon follows in his father’s wicked ways (prior to Manasseh’s repentance) and does not humble himself before the Lord. He worships idols and forsakes the God of his ancestors. Amon doesn’t last long though, only two years to be exact–his officials conspire against him and assassinate him in his palace. He is succeeded by his son Josiah.
In summary, 2 Chronicles 33 focuses on the narrative of kings who turned away from God towards the evil, their consequences, repentance, and God’s mercy when they turned back to Him.
Frequently asked questions for 2 Chronicles 33
Sure, here are some frequently asked questions about 2 Chronicles 33:
1. Who is the main character in 2 Chronicles 33?
– The central figure of this chapter is Manasseh, who becomes king of Judah. He is known for doing evil in the sight of the Lord and leading Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem to do worse than the heathen.
2. What did King Manasseh do that was considered evil?
– According to 2 Chronicles 33, Manasseh rebuilt the high places that his father Hezekiah had broken down, he erected altars to Baal, worshiped all the host of heaven, built altars for idols in the temple of the Lord, used witchcraft and magic, and made his children pass through fire in the valley of the son of Hinnom.
3. Was there any consequence for Manasseh’s actions?
– Yes, the Lord brought the captains of the army of the king of Assyria against Judah, who captured Manasseh, bound him, and took him to Babylon.
4. Did Manasseh repent for his wrongdoings?
– Yes, when Manasseh was in tribulation, he sought the favor of the Lord, humbled himself greatly, and prayed to Him. God was moved by his entreaty and restored him to his kingdom.
5. What changes did Manasseh make when he was restored to his kingdom?
– After his repentance, Manasseh made a significant effort to remove the false idols and altars he had created. He also fortified the country, placed commanders in all the fortified cities, and removed the foreign gods and idol from the Lord’s house.
6. Who reigned after Manasseh, and did they continue his reforms?
– Manasseh was succeeded by his son, Amon, who did not follow in his father’s repentant footsteps but instead did what was evil in the sight of the Lord as Manasseh had done before his repentance.
These are summaries, and for a comprehensive understanding, it’s best to read the full text of 2 Chronicles 33 in the Bible.
Possible References for 2 Chronicles 33
The 2 Chronicles 33 in the Bible mainly refers to the narrative surrounding the reigns of two Judaic kings, Manasseh and Amon.
1. The majority part of the chapter (verses 1-20) details the reign of Manasseh, the son of Hezekiah. It describes Manasseh’s actions against God’s commands, which include rebuilding high places that his father Hezekiah had destroyed, leading Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem astray, and indulging in many forms of idolatry. The chapter also talks about how God rebuked Manasseh by allowing him to become captive of the Assyrians.
In his suffering, Manasseh repented and prayed to God, and God restored him to his kingdom in Jerusalem. After his restoration, Manasseh discarded idolatry, restored the altar of the Lord, and commanded the people of Judah to serve God. Thus, the chapter traces Manasseh’s path from sin, through punishment and repentance, and to redemption.
2. The latter part of the chapter (verses 21-25) briefly narrates the story of Amon, the son of Manasseh. It describes his reign as a continuation of his father’s earlier unrighteousness, not following his father’s later loyalty to God. Consequently, Amon’s servants conspired against him and killed him in his own house.
Potentially, the references for 2 Chronicles 33 could also derive from scholarly biblical commentaries, historical references, or theological studies examining these narratives in the context of Judaism and Christianity. The interpretations of these stories can vary among different scholars, theologians, and believers.
Conclusion on 2 Chronicles 33
The 33rd chapter of 2 Chronicles in the Bible centers on the reign of Manasseh, the king of Judah, and his son, Amon.
Manasseh was perhaps one of the most wicked kings. He rebuilt the high places, made altars to Baal, honored the host of powers (or the stars of the skies), and even sacrificed his own children in the fire. He practiced divination, sought omens, and consulted mediums and spiritists, actions that were considered detestable to the Lord according to 2 Chronicles 33:1-9.
But after God allowed Manasseh to be captured by the Assyrians, Manasseh repented of his sins and dramatically changed his behavior. Judah enjoyed peace and prosperity for the remainder of his reign. Manasseh presumably led his people to seek the Lord, but they didn’t listen, so God caused them to become servants of the Assyrians. After Manasseh passed away, he was succeeded by his son Amon. However, Amon did evil in the sight of the Lord, resulting in his assassination. He was succeeded by his son Josiah (2 Chronicles 33:10-25).
In conclusion, 2 Chronicles 33 taught readers about the reigns of two contrasting kings – one starting off evil but repenting and reforming, and the other persisting in evil and meeting a brutal end. It illustrates the theme of the Kings and Chronicles: God honors those who honor Him, and punishes those who reject Him. Despite Manasseh’s evil ways, when he humbled himself and sought God’s mercy, he was restored. In contrast, Amon who did not repent from his evil was judged. This message of the Bible stresses the importance of repentance and seeking God’s mercy.