The Tribe of Manasseh, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, holds a significant place in the biblical narrative, particularly during the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah. This period is marked by a religious revival and a call to return to the worship of Yahweh, as recorded in the books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles.

Historical Context

The tribe of Manasseh was one of the two half-tribes descended from Joseph, the son of Jacob, with Manasseh being the elder son. The tribe was unique in that it was divided into two parts: one settled on the east side of the Jordan River, and the other on the west. This geographical division often led to distinct historical and cultural developments within the tribe.

During the reign of Hezekiah, the northern kingdom of Israel, where the eastern half of Manasseh was located, had been conquered by the Assyrians. Many inhabitants were exiled, but a remnant remained in the land. Hezekiah, king of Judah, initiated a religious reform aimed at uniting the people in the worship of Yahweh and purifying religious practices.

Hezekiah's Passover

Hezekiah's Passover is a pivotal event described in 2 Chronicles 30. After cleansing the temple and restoring proper worship, Hezekiah sent letters throughout Israel and Judah, inviting all the tribes, including Manasseh, to come to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover. This invitation was extended even to those in the northern kingdom, which had been spiritually and politically estranged from Judah.

2 Chronicles 30:1-5 states: "Then Hezekiah sent word throughout all Israel and Judah, and he also wrote letters to Ephraim and Manasseh, inviting them to come to the house of the LORD in Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover to the LORD, the God of Israel. For the king and his officials and the whole assembly in Jerusalem had decided to keep the Passover in the second month, since they had been unable to celebrate it at the regular time because not enough priests had consecrated themselves and the people had not gathered in Jerusalem."

Response of Manasseh

The response from the tribes was mixed. While some mocked and scorned the messengers, others humbled themselves and came to Jerusalem. Notably, a number of individuals from the tribe of Manasseh responded positively to Hezekiah's call. 2 Chronicles 30:11 records, "Nevertheless, some from Asher, Manasseh, and Zebulun humbled themselves and came to Jerusalem."

This act of humility and obedience was significant, as it demonstrated a willingness to return to the covenantal worship of Yahweh, despite the political and religious turmoil that had characterized the northern kingdom. The participation of Manasseh in the Passover celebration symbolized a moment of unity and spiritual renewal among the Israelites.

Spiritual Significance

The involvement of the tribe of Manasseh in Hezekiah's Passover underscores the theme of repentance and restoration. It highlights the inclusivity of Hezekiah's reform, reaching out to those who had been estranged from the religious life centered in Jerusalem. The event serves as a reminder of God's enduring covenant with all the tribes of Israel, despite their previous disobedience and division.

Hezekiah's Passover, with the participation of Manasseh, is a testament to the power of repentance and the possibility of renewal. It reflects the biblical principle that God's mercy and grace are available to those who seek Him with a humble heart, regardless of past transgressions or geographical boundaries.2 Chronicles 30:1,11,18
And Hezekiah sent to all Israel and Judah, and wrote letters also to Ephraim and Manasseh, that they should come to the house of the LORD at Jerusalem, to keep the passover to the LORD God of Israel.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Deuteronomy
... temporary distress, and the banner tribe is Ephraim ... tone prevails probably came from
Hezekiah's reign, and the more aggressive sections from Manasseh's. ...
/.../mcfadyen/introduction to the old testament/deuteronomy.htm

Questions.
... 5. Who was chosen in Saul's stead? 6. Of what tribe was David? ... 29. Who reigned after
Hezekiah? 30. How were the crimes of Manasseh punished? 31. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/yonge/the chosen people/questions.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... This task, which was begun in the reign of Hezekiah and continued under Manasseh,
resulted in the production of a literature of which fragments have been ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

Who was King Manasseh in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What can we learn from the tribe of Manasseh? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Manasseh in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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