Introduction:
Manasseh, the son of King Hezekiah, ascended to the throne of Judah following his father's death. His reign is noted for its significant departure from the religious reforms instituted by Hezekiah, marking a period of spiritual decline and idolatry in Judah. The narrative of Manasseh's reign is primarily found in 2 Kings 21:1-18 and 2 Chronicles 33:1-20.

Background:
Hezekiah, Manasseh's father, was a king renowned for his faithfulness to Yahweh and his efforts to rid Judah of idolatry. Hezekiah's reign was characterized by religious reform, including the restoration of the temple and the celebration of the Passover (2 Chronicles 29-31). However, upon Hezekiah's death, Manasseh ascended the throne at the tender age of twelve (2 Kings 21:1).

Reign of Manasseh:
Manasseh reigned for fifty-five years, the longest of any king of Judah (2 Kings 21:1). His reign is often remembered for its stark contrast to that of his father. Manasseh reversed many of Hezekiah's reforms and led Judah into a period of profound idolatry and moral decay. The biblical account in 2 Kings 21:2-9 details his actions: "He did evil in the sight of the LORD, according to 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 to Baal, and made an Asherah pole, as Ahab king of Israel had done. He also worshiped all the host of heaven and served them. Furthermore, he built altars in the house of the LORD, of which the LORD had said, "In Jerusalem I will put My name" (2 Kings 21:4). Manasseh's idolatry extended to the point of sacrificing his own son in the fire, practicing divination, and seeking omens (2 Kings 21:6).

Prophetic Condemnation:
The prophets of the LORD condemned Manasseh's actions, warning of impending judgment. The LORD declared through His prophets, "Because Manasseh king of Judah has committed these abominations and has done more evil than all that the Amorites did who were before him, and has made Judah also to sin with his idols, therefore thus says the LORD, the God of Israel: Behold, I am bringing upon Jerusalem and Judah such disaster that the ears of everyone who hears of it will tingle" (2 Kings 21:11-12).

Repentance and Restoration:
The account in 2 Chronicles 33:10-13 provides a unique perspective on Manasseh's reign, highlighting his eventual repentance. The LORD spoke to Manasseh and his people, but they paid no attention. Consequently, the LORD brought against them the commanders of the army of the king of Assyria, who captured Manasseh with hooks, bound him with bronze shackles, and took him to Babylon. In his distress, Manasseh sought the favor of the LORD his God and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers. When he prayed to Him, the LORD was moved by his entreaty and listened to his plea, restoring him to his kingdom in Jerusalem. Then Manasseh knew that the LORD is God (2 Chronicles 33:12-13).

Legacy:
Despite his repentance, the legacy of Manasseh's reign was one of spiritual decline and set a precedent for future generations. His son Amon followed in his footsteps, continuing the idolatrous practices until his assassination (2 Kings 21:19-23). Manasseh's reign serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of turning away from the LORD and the enduring impact of a leader's actions on a nation.