Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Manasseh is a significant figure in the Bible, known for his reign as king of Judah and his complex legacy. His account is primarily found in the Old Testament, specifically in the books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles. Manasseh's reign is marked by idolatry, repentance, and a return to the worship of Yahweh. Name and Meaning: The name Manasseh (Hebrew: מְנַשֶּׁה, Menasheh) means "causing to forget" or "he who causes to forget." This name is reflective of Joseph's statement in Genesis 41:51, where he names his firstborn Manasseh, saying, "God has made me forget all my trouble and all my father’s household." Family Background: Manasseh was the son of King Hezekiah, a righteous king of Judah, and his mother was Hephzibah. He became king at the young age of twelve and reigned for fifty-five years, the longest of any king in Judah's history (2 Kings 21:1). Reign and Idolatry: Manasseh's reign is noted for its initial departure from the religious reforms of his father, Hezekiah. He is described as having done "evil in the sight of the LORD" (2 Kings 21:2). He rebuilt the high places that Hezekiah had destroyed, erected altars for Baal, made an Asherah pole, and worshiped the host of heaven (2 Kings 21:3-5). Manasseh also practiced sorcery, divination, and consulted mediums and spiritists, provoking the LORD to anger (2 Kings 21:6). Impact on Judah: Manasseh's idolatry had a profound impact on Judah, leading the nation into sin. The Bible records that he "led them astray, so that they did more evil than the nations the LORD had destroyed before the Israelites" (2 Kings 21:9). His actions are said to have filled Jerusalem with innocent blood (2 Kings 21:16). Repentance and Reform: Despite his early transgressions, Manasseh's account takes a redemptive turn. According to 2 Chronicles 33:12-13, when Manasseh was taken captive by the Assyrians, he sought the LORD in his distress and humbled himself greatly. God was moved by his entreaty and brought him back to Jerusalem. Upon his return, Manasseh removed foreign gods and idols from the temple, restored the altar of the LORD, and commanded Judah to serve the LORD, the God of Israel (2 Chronicles 33:15-16). Legacy: Manasseh's legacy is a complex one. While his reign began with significant idolatry and apostasy, his repentance and subsequent reforms demonstrate the possibility of redemption and forgiveness. His account serves as a reminder of God's mercy and the power of sincere repentance. References in the New Testament: Manasseh is mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus Christ in the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 1:10), highlighting his place in the lineage of the Messiah despite his earlier sins. Conclusion: Manasseh's life is a testament to the themes of sin, judgment, repentance, and restoration. His account is a powerful illustration of the transformative power of God's grace and the importance of turning back to Him, even after a life of rebellion. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia MANASSEASman-a-se'-as (Manasseas): One of those who had married "strange wives" (1 Esdras 9:31); "Manasseh" of Ezra 10:30. Thesaurus Manasseas... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia MANASSEAS. man-a-se'-as (Manasseas): One of those who had married "strange wives" (1 Esdras 9:31); "Manasseh" of Ezra 10:30. ... /m/manasseas.htm - 6k Manassahite (2 Occurrences) Manasseh (140 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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