2 Chronicles 26:23

And Uzziah rested with his fathers and was buried near them in a field of burial that belonged to the kings; for the people said, "He was a leper." And his son Jotham reigned in his place.

Study Bible

And Uzziah rested with his fathers
This phrase indicates the death of King Uzziah, a common biblical expression for passing away, suggesting a peaceful transition. It reflects the Hebrew tradition of being gathered to one's ancestors, implying a continuation of lineage and heritage. Uzziah's reign was marked by both prosperity and downfall due to his pride, as detailed in 2 Chronicles 26:16-21.

and was buried near them in a field of burial that belonged to the kings
Uzziah was not buried in the royal tombs due to his leprosy, a condition that rendered him ceremonially unclean. This burial "near" rather than "with" the kings signifies a separation due to his condition, reflecting the cultural and religious practices concerning purity and burial rites. The field of burial indicates a designated area for royal burials, emphasizing the honor of his position despite his affliction.

for the people said, “He was a leper.”
This statement highlights the public acknowledgment of Uzziah's leprosy, which was seen as a divine judgment for his attempt to burn incense in the temple, an act reserved for priests (2 Chronicles 26:16-21). Leprosy in biblical times was not only a physical ailment but also carried social and religious stigma, often interpreted as a sign of God's displeasure.

And his son Jotham reigned in his place.
Jotham's succession marks the continuation of the Davidic line, a key theme in Chronicles. Jotham is noted for his righteous reign, contrasting with his father's downfall. His rule is seen as a stabilizing period, and he is commended for his faithfulness to God (2 Chronicles 27:1-6). This transition underscores the biblical principle of divine sovereignty in leadership and the importance of obedience to God's commandments.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Uzziah
Also known as Azariah, he was a king of Judah who reigned for 52 years. He is remembered for his initial faithfulness to God and subsequent pride that led to his downfall and leprosy.

2. Jotham
The son of Uzziah, who succeeded him as king. Jotham is noted for continuing some of the positive reforms of his father but also for not removing the high places.

3. Field for Burial
This was a burial place designated for the kings of Judah. Uzziah was buried near his ancestors but not in the royal tombs due to his leprosy.

4. Leprosy
A significant condition in biblical times, often seen as a divine judgment. Uzziah's leprosy was a result of his prideful attempt to burn incense in the temple, a duty reserved for priests.

5. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Uzziah reigned as king. It was a time of both prosperity and spiritual decline.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Pride
Uzziah's account is a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride. Despite his successes, his pride led to his downfall. We must remain humble and recognize our dependence on God.

Consequences of Disobedience
Uzziah's leprosy was a direct result of his disobedience to God's commands. This reminds us that our actions have consequences, and we must strive to live in obedience to God's Word.

Legacy and Influence
Uzziah's reign had lasting impacts on Judah, both positive and negative. Our actions and decisions can leave a legacy that affects future generations.

God's Sovereignty in Leadership
Despite Uzziah's failings, God continued His plan through Jotham. This teaches us that God is sovereign and His purposes will prevail, even when human leaders fall short.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Uzziah's life illustrate the biblical principle that pride comes before a fall? Can you identify other biblical figures who experienced similar downfalls?

2. In what ways can we guard against pride in our own lives, especially when we experience success or recognition?

3. How does the account of Uzziah's leprosy help us understand the seriousness of sin and its consequences? What New Testament teachings reinforce this understanding?

4. What lessons can we learn from the transition of leadership from Uzziah to Jotham about preparing the next generation for leadership?

5. How does the account of Uzziah encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty, even when human leaders fail? Can you think of other biblical examples where God's plan prevailed despite human shortcomings?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 15:1-7
Provides a parallel account of Uzziah's reign, highlighting his accomplishments and his downfall due to pride.

Isaiah 6:1
Mentions the year of King Uzziah's death, providing a historical context for Isaiah's vision and calling.

Leviticus 13:45-46
Describes the laws concerning leprosy, which helps us understand the social and religious implications of Uzziah's condition.