Hezekiah, the son of Ahaz and the 13th king of Judah, is remembered as one of the most faithful and reformative rulers in the history of the southern kingdom. His reign, which lasted from approximately 715 to 686 BC, was marked by significant religious reforms and a fervent return to the worship of Yahweh. Hezekiah's death is a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative, as it marks the end of a period of spiritual revival and the beginning of a decline that would eventually lead to the Babylonian exile.

Biblical Context

Hezekiah's account is primarily found in the books of 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles, and Isaiah. His reign is characterized by his efforts to abolish idolatry and restore the temple worship in Jerusalem. Hezekiah's faithfulness is highlighted during the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem, where he sought the Lord's deliverance, resulting in a miraculous victory over the Assyrian army (2 Kings 19:35-36).

Illness and Recovery

The account of Hezekiah's illness and subsequent recovery is a significant event leading up to his death. In 2 Kings 20:1-6, the prophet Isaiah informs Hezekiah that he is to set his house in order, for he will die from his illness. Hezekiah, in deep distress, turns his face to the wall and prays earnestly to the Lord, reminding God of his faithfulness and wholehearted devotion. The Lord hears his prayer and, through Isaiah, grants Hezekiah an additional fifteen years of life. The Berean Standard Bible records this divine intervention: "I have heard your prayer; I have seen your tears. Behold, I will heal you. On the third day from now you will go up to the house of the LORD. And I will add fifteen years to your life" (2 Kings 20:5-6).

The Sign of the Sundial

As a sign of His promise, God causes the shadow on the sundial of Ahaz to move backward ten steps, a miraculous event that confirms the Lord's word to Hezekiah (2 Kings 20:8-11). This sign serves as a testament to God's power and faithfulness, reinforcing the king's trust in the Lord.

Hezekiah's Pride and Humility

Despite his faithfulness, Hezekiah's later years are marred by an episode of pride. After his recovery, envoys from Babylon visit Hezekiah, and he shows them all the treasures of his kingdom. This act of pride and lack of discernment prompts Isaiah to prophesy the future Babylonian captivity of Judah (2 Kings 20:12-18). Hezekiah humbly accepts the word of the Lord, acknowledging the justice of God's judgment.

Death and Legacy

Hezekiah's death is recorded in 2 Kings 20:21 and 2 Chronicles 32:33. He is buried with honor in the tombs of the sons of David, and his son Manasseh succeeds him as king. The Berean Standard Bible states, "Hezekiah rested with his fathers, and his son Manasseh became king in his place" (2 Kings 20:21).

Hezekiah's legacy is one of devout leadership and spiritual renewal. His reforms and reliance on God during times of crisis set a standard for future generations. However, his life also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and the importance of humility before God.