Topical Encyclopedia Amon in the BibleAmon, also spelled Amen, is a biblical figure mentioned primarily in the Old Testament. He was the son of Manasseh and the fourteenth king of Judah, reigning in Jerusalem. His account is found in 2 Kings 21:19-26 and 2 Chronicles 33:21-25. Amon's reign is noted for its continuation of the idolatrous practices initiated by his father, Manasseh, which were in direct opposition to the worship of Yahweh, the God of Israel. Reign and Idolatry Amon became king at the age of twenty-two and reigned for two years. The Berean Standard Bible describes his reign as evil in the sight of the LORD, following the sinful practices of his father. 2 Kings 21:20-22 states, "And he did evil in the sight of the LORD, as his father Manasseh had done. He walked in all the ways of his father, and he served the idols that his father had served and worshiped them. He abandoned the LORD, the God of his fathers, and did not walk in the way of the LORD." Amon's reign was marked by a continuation of idol worship, including the worship of Baal and Asherah, and the neglect of the temple in Jerusalem. His actions further entrenched the nation in practices that were abominable to God, leading to spiritual and moral decline. Assassination and Legacy Amon's reign was abruptly ended when he was assassinated by his own officials in his palace. 2 Kings 21:23-24 records, "Then the servants of Amon conspired against him and killed the king in his palace. But the people of the land struck down all who had conspired against King Amon, and they made his son Josiah king in his place." Despite his short and troubled reign, Amon's legacy is significant due to his son, Josiah, who became one of the most righteous kings of Judah. Josiah initiated significant religious reforms, turning the nation back to the worship of Yahweh and away from the idolatrous practices of his father and grandfather. Amon in Egyptian Context The name Amon is also associated with the Egyptian god Amun (or Amen), a major deity in ancient Egyptian religion. Amun was often depicted as a creator god and was associated with the sun and air. While the biblical Amon and the Egyptian god Amun are distinct, the similarity in names has led to some historical and theological discussions regarding cultural interactions between ancient Israel and Egypt. Theological Implications Amon's account serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of idolatry and disobedience to God's commandments. His failure to heed the lessons of his father's repentance (as Manasseh eventually turned back to God) highlights the importance of personal responsibility in spiritual matters. Amon's reign underscores the biblical theme that leadership carries significant spiritual and moral responsibilities, impacting not only the leader but the entire nation. References in Scripture · 2 Kings 21:19-26 · 2 Chronicles 33:21-25 Amon's brief and tumultuous reign is a reminder of the enduring biblical principle that faithfulness to God is paramount, and deviation from His ways leads to personal and national downfall. Smith's Bible Dictionary Amon or Amen(the mysterious), an Egyptian divinity, whose name occurs in that of No-amon. (Nahum 3:8) Amen was one of the eight gods of the first order and chief of the triad of Thebes. He was worshipped at that city as Amen-Ra, or "Amen the Sun." Library Appendices List of Characters and Places Egypt How the Bishop is to Treat the Innocent, the Guilty, and the ... Manasseh The Reaction against Egypt The Last Days of the Old Eastern World Resources Summary of the Book of Nahum - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.orgQuestions about People in the Bible (All) | GotQuestions.org Who was Huldah the prophetess in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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