2 Kings 21:1

Manasseh was twelve years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-five years. His mother's name was Hephzibah.

Study Bible

Manasseh was twelve years old when he became king
Manasseh's ascension to the throne at such a young age suggests a period of instability or transition in the kingdom of Judah. His father, Hezekiah, was a righteous king who enacted significant religious reforms, but Manasseh's reign marked a dramatic shift back to idolatry and pagan practices. The age of twelve indicates that he likely relied heavily on advisors, who may have influenced his early decisions. This young age for a king is not unprecedented in the Bible, as seen with Joash, who became king at seven (2 Kings 11:21).

and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-five years
Manasseh's fifty-five-year reign is the longest of any king in Judah or Israel, indicating a period of relative political stability despite his religious apostasy. This long reign allowed for the entrenchment of idolatrous practices, which had lasting negative effects on Judah. His reign is often seen as a time of moral and spiritual decline, setting the stage for future judgment. The length of his reign is significant in biblical history, as it contrasts with the short reigns of many other kings, highlighting the patience and long-suffering nature of God despite Manasseh's evil actions.

His mother’s name was Hephzibah
The mention of Hephzibah, Manasseh's mother, provides a personal detail that may indicate her influence or status. The name Hephzibah means "My delight is in her," which is also used in Isaiah 62:4 as a symbolic name for Jerusalem, suggesting a connection to the city's destiny. While little is known about her, the inclusion of her name may imply her importance in the royal court or her potential role in Manasseh's upbringing. The naming of mothers in the accounts of kings often highlights their significance in the narrative, whether for their positive or negative influence.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Manasseh
The son of Hezekiah, Manasseh became king of Judah at a young age. His reign is noted for its length and for leading Judah into idolatry and sin.

2. Hephzibah
The mother of Manasseh, her name means "My delight is in her" in Hebrew. She is mentioned briefly, indicating her role in Manasseh's life.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, where Manasseh reigned. It was the spiritual and political center of the kingdom.

4. Reign of Fifty-Five Years
Manasseh's reign was the longest of any king of Judah, marked by significant religious and moral decline.

Teaching Points

The Influence of Leadership
Manasseh's reign shows how a leader's actions can lead a nation toward or away from God. Leaders today must be mindful of their influence and seek to lead with integrity and faithfulness to God's Word.

The Impact of Parental Guidance
While Hephzibah is mentioned briefly, the role of parents in shaping the spiritual direction of their children is significant. Parents are called to nurture their children in the faith, teaching them to love and obey God.

The Possibility of Repentance
Despite Manasseh's initial rebellion, his account in 2 Chronicles 33 demonstrates that repentance is always possible. No matter how far one strays, God is willing to forgive and restore those who turn back to Him.

The Consequences of Idolatry
Manasseh's idolatry led to severe consequences for Judah, reminding us of the dangers of placing anything above God in our lives. We must guard our hearts against modern forms of idolatry.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Manasseh's age when he became king influence your understanding of his early decisions and actions as a ruler?

2. In what ways can the account of Manasseh's reign serve as a warning to contemporary leaders, both in the church and in society?

3. Reflect on the role of Hephzibah as Manasseh's mother. How can parents today ensure they are positively influencing their children's spiritual lives?

4. Considering Manasseh's eventual repentance, how can we apply the concept of God's grace and forgiveness in our own lives and relationships?

5. What are some modern-day idols that can distract us from our relationship with God, and how can we actively work to remove them from our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Chronicles 33
This chapter provides a parallel account of Manasseh's reign, including his eventual repentance and efforts to restore worship of Yahweh.

Isaiah 7:14
Hephzibah's name is echoed in the prophecy of Immanuel, where the land is called "Beulah," meaning "married," reflecting God's delight in His people.

Exodus 20:3-5
Manasseh's idolatry directly violated the commandments against worshiping other gods and making idols, highlighting the spiritual decline during his reign.