Topical Encyclopedia Hezekiah, son of Ahaz, reigned as the king of Judah from approximately 715 to 686 BC. His reign is notably marked by a profound commitment to the worship of Yahweh and a series of religious reforms that sought to restore the spiritual integrity of the nation. Hezekiah's piety is a central theme in the biblical narrative, highlighting his dedication to God and his efforts to lead Judah back to covenant faithfulness.Religious Reforms Upon ascending to the throne, Hezekiah initiated significant religious reforms aimed at purifying the worship practices of Judah. He is credited with removing the high places, breaking the sacred pillars, cutting down the Asherah poles, and destroying the bronze serpent that Moses had made, which had become an object of idolatrous worship (2 Kings 18:4). These actions demonstrate his commitment to eradicating idolatry and centralizing worship in Jerusalem, in accordance with the Mosaic Law. Restoration of the Temple Hezekiah's piety is further evidenced by his efforts to restore the Temple in Jerusalem. In the first year of his reign, he reopened the doors of the Temple and repaired them (2 Chronicles 29:3). He gathered the priests and Levites, urging them to consecrate themselves and the Temple, which had been neglected during the reign of his father, Ahaz. This restoration was accompanied by a renewed emphasis on proper worship and the observance of the sacrificial system as prescribed in the Law of Moses. Celebration of the Passover One of Hezekiah's most significant religious acts was the celebration of the Passover, which had not been observed on such a scale since the days of Solomon. Hezekiah sent letters throughout Israel and Judah, inviting the people to come to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover to the LORD, the God of Israel (2 Chronicles 30:1). This event was marked by great joy and unity among the people, as they gathered to worship and offer sacrifices to God. The celebration extended for an additional seven days, reflecting the people's enthusiasm and commitment to returning to the ways of the LORD. Trust in the LORD Hezekiah's piety is also reflected in his unwavering trust in the LORD during times of crisis. When faced with the threat of the Assyrian king Sennacherib, Hezekiah sought the LORD's guidance and deliverance. He prayed earnestly, laying the Assyrian's threatening letter before the LORD in the Temple and seeking divine intervention (2 Kings 19:14-19). The LORD responded to Hezekiah's faith by sending an angel to destroy the Assyrian army, thus delivering Judah from imminent destruction (2 Kings 19:35). Personal Devotion Hezekiah's personal devotion to God is further illustrated in his response to illness. When the prophet Isaiah informed him of his impending death, Hezekiah prayed fervently, reminding God of his faithfulness and wholehearted devotion (2 Kings 20:2-3). In response, God granted him an additional fifteen years of life, demonstrating His favor toward Hezekiah's sincere piety. Hezekiah's reign is characterized by a deep commitment to the LORD and a desire to lead his people in faithful worship. His piety not only brought about religious renewal in Judah but also served as a testament to the power of sincere devotion and trust in God. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 18:3,5,6And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that David his father did. Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 29:2 2 Chronicles 31:20,21 2 Chronicles 32:32 Jeremiah 26:19 Library Hezekiah, the Praying King The Ambassadors from Babylon The Kingdom of Judah. Chronicles The Evidence of Scripture on Changes of Determination. A Godly Reformation The Book of the Law The Ascension of Isaiah. The Minstrel The Interest of his Biography. Resources What is the Ascension of Isaiah? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible mean when it refers to a “Daughter of Zion”? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of Assyria in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Hezekiah: King of Judah: Conducts the Gihon Brook Into Jerusalem Hezekiah: King of Judah: Death and Burial of Hezekiah: King of Judah: His Lack of Wisdom in Showing his Resources to Commissioners of Babylon Hezekiah: King of Judah: His Piety Hezekiah: King of Judah: His Psalm of Thanksgiving Hezekiah: King of Judah: Military Operations of Hezekiah: King of Judah: Prophecies Concerning Hezekiah: King of Judah: Prospered by God Hezekiah: King of Judah: Purges the Nation of Idolatry Hezekiah: King of Judah: Religious Zeal of Hezekiah: King of Judah: Restores the True Forms of Worship Hezekiah: King of Judah: Scribes of Hezekiah: King of Judah: Sickness and Restoration of Hezekiah: One of the Exiles: Called Hizkijah Iconoclasm: Destroyed by Hezekiah Related Terms |
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