Hezekiah, the son of Ahaz, reigned as the king of Judah from approximately 715 to 686 BC. His leadership is noted for its righteousness and dedication to the worship of Yahweh, marking a significant spiritual reformation in the history of Judah. Hezekiah's reign is primarily chronicled in the books of 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles, and Isaiah.

Religious Reforms

Hezekiah ascended to the throne during a time of spiritual decline, following the idolatrous practices of his father, Ahaz. One of his first acts as king was to restore the worship of the Lord. He reopened the doors of the Temple, which had been closed by Ahaz, and repaired them (2 Chronicles 29:3). Hezekiah gathered the priests and Levites, urging them to consecrate themselves and the Temple, saying, "Now it is in my heart to make a covenant with the LORD, the God of Israel, so that His fierce anger will turn away from us" (2 Chronicles 29:10).

Hezekiah's reforms included the removal of high places, the destruction of sacred stones, and the cutting down of Asherah poles. He also broke into pieces the bronze serpent that Moses had made, for the Israelites had begun to worship it as an idol (2 Kings 18:4). His commitment to eradicating idolatry and restoring true worship was a hallmark of his reign.

Passover Celebration

In the first year of his reign, Hezekiah reinstituted the celebration of the Passover, which had been neglected. He 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 a spirit of unity and repentance, as many from the northern tribes also participated. The celebration was so joyous and spiritually uplifting that it was extended for an additional seven days (2 Chronicles 30:23).

Trust in the LORD

Hezekiah's trust in the LORD was evident during the Assyrian invasion. When King Sennacherib of Assyria threatened Jerusalem, Hezekiah sought the counsel of the prophet Isaiah and turned to God in prayer. Hezekiah prayed, "O LORD our God, deliver us from his hand, so that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that You alone, O LORD, are God" (2 Kings 19:19). In response, the LORD sent an angel who annihilated the Assyrian army, delivering Judah from destruction (2 Kings 19:35).

Hezekiah's Illness and Recovery

Hezekiah's faith was further tested when he became gravely ill. The prophet Isaiah informed him that he would not recover. In response, Hezekiah prayed earnestly, and the LORD granted him an additional fifteen years of life (2 Kings 20:1-6). As a sign of this promise, the shadow on the sundial of Ahaz moved backward ten steps (2 Kings 20:9-11).

Legacy

Hezekiah's reign is remembered for his unwavering commitment to the LORD and his efforts to lead Judah back to faithful worship. The Scriptures commend him, stating, "Hezekiah trusted in the LORD, the God of Israel. No king of Judah was like him, either before him or after him" (2 Kings 18:5). His leadership serves as a model of righteous governance, characterized by a deep reliance on God and a fervent desire to uphold His commandments.