Introduction:
Manasseh, the son of Hezekiah, ascended to the throne of Judah following the death of his father. His reign is chronicled in the books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles, marking a significant period in the history of Judah due to his initial departure from the religious reforms instituted by his father. Manasseh's reign is often noted for its length and the dramatic shift in religious practices during his early years as king.

Historical Context:
Manasseh began his reign at the tender age of twelve and ruled for fifty-five years, making his reign the longest of any king of Judah. His rule is dated approximately from 697 to 642 BC. The political landscape during Manasseh's reign was marked by the dominance of the Assyrian Empire, which exerted considerable influence over the region.

Religious Practices:
Manasseh's reign is characterized by a significant departure from the monotheistic worship of Yahweh, which his father, Hezekiah, had ardently promoted. According to 2 Kings 21:2-6 , "He did evil in the sight of the LORD, following the abominations of the nations that the LORD had driven out before the Israelites." Manasseh rebuilt the high places that Hezekiah had destroyed, erected altars for Baal, made an Asherah pole, and worshiped all the host of heaven. He even placed altars in the house of the LORD, where the LORD had said, "In Jerusalem I will put My Name" (2 Kings 21:4).

Idolatry and Apostasy:
Manasseh's reign is marked by a profound level of idolatry and apostasy. He practiced divination, witchcraft, and consulted mediums and spiritists, provoking the LORD to anger (2 Kings 21:6). Furthermore, he is noted for shedding much innocent blood, filling Jerusalem from one end to another (2 Kings 21:16). His actions led the people of Judah astray, causing them to do more evil than the nations the LORD had destroyed before the Israelites.

Prophetic Warnings:
The prophets of the LORD spoke against Manasseh's actions, warning of impending judgment. The LORD declared through His prophets that He would bring such disaster upon Jerusalem and Judah that the ears of everyone who hears of it will tingle (2 Kings 21:12). The LORD's pronouncement of judgment was a direct response to Manasseh's abominations and the leading of Judah into sin.

Repentance and Restoration:
Despite the initial years of rebellion, 2 Chronicles 33:12-13 records a significant turning point in Manasseh's life. When he was in distress, he sought the favor of the LORD his God and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers. The LORD was moved by his entreaty and brought him back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the LORD is God. This repentance led to a series of reforms, including the removal of foreign gods and idols from the temple and the restoration of the altar of the LORD.

Legacy:
Manasseh's reign is a complex narrative of sin, judgment, repentance, and restoration. His early years are often cited as a period of significant spiritual decline in Judah, yet his later repentance and efforts to restore proper worship highlight the possibility of redemption. His account serves as a testament to the enduring mercy and patience of God, even in the face of profound rebellion.