Iconoclasm, in the context of biblical history, refers to the destruction of religious icons and images, particularly those associated with idolatry. One of the most notable instances of iconoclasm in the Bible is the reform carried out by King Hezekiah of Judah, who sought to purify the worship practices of his people by eliminating idolatrous elements.

Historical Context

Hezekiah, the son of Ahaz, reigned as king of Judah during the late 8th century BC. His reign is documented in the books of 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles, and Isaiah. Hezekiah is remembered as a righteous king who "did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father David had done" (2 Kings 18:3). His efforts to restore true worship in Judah were marked by a series of religious reforms aimed at eradicating idolatry and centralizing worship in Jerusalem.

Destruction of Idolatrous Practices

One of Hezekiah's most significant acts of iconoclasm was the destruction of the bronze serpent, known as Nehushtan, which Moses had made in the wilderness. Originally, this serpent was created as a means for the Israelites to be healed from snake bites, as recorded in Numbers 21:8-9. However, over time, the people of Israel began to venerate it as an idol, burning incense to it. Recognizing this as a form of idolatry, Hezekiah "broke into pieces the bronze serpent that Moses had made, for until those days the Israelites had burned incense to it" (2 Kings 18:4).

In addition to destroying the bronze serpent, Hezekiah also removed the high places, shattered the sacred pillars, and cut down the Asherah poles. These actions were part of his broader campaign to eliminate the worship of foreign gods and to restore the exclusive worship of Yahweh. The high places were local shrines where unauthorized sacrifices were made, often associated with Canaanite religious practices. By removing these, Hezekiah sought to centralize worship in the Jerusalem Temple, in accordance with the Deuteronomic law.

Religious and Political Implications

Hezekiah's iconoclastic reforms had both religious and political implications. Religiously, they represented a return to the covenantal faithfulness demanded by the Mosaic Law. By purging the land of idolatry, Hezekiah aimed to renew the nation's commitment to the LORD and to seek His favor and protection. Politically, these reforms helped to consolidate Hezekiah's authority by unifying the people under a single religious practice centered in Jerusalem.

Legacy

Hezekiah's iconoclasm set a precedent for later reforms, notably those of King Josiah, who also sought to eradicate idolatry from Judah. Hezekiah's actions are often viewed as a model of faithful leadership, demonstrating the importance of upholding the purity of worship and the exclusive devotion to God. His reign is remembered as a time of spiritual renewal and divine favor, as evidenced by God's deliverance of Jerusalem from the Assyrian siege (2 Kings 19:32-36).

Hezekiah's commitment to iconoclasm underscores the biblical theme of the dangers of idolatry and the call to worship God alone. His reforms serve as a reminder of the need for vigilance in maintaining the integrity of worship and the centrality of God's commandments in the life of His people.2 Kings 18:3-6
And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that David his father did.
Nave's Topical Index

Who was Hezekiah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Sennacherib in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What was Nehushtan? | GotQuestions.org

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