Topical Encyclopedia Ahaz, the son and successor of Jotham, reigned as the king of Judah during a tumultuous period in the 8th century BC. His reign is chronicled in the books of 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles, and Isaiah, where he is depicted as a ruler who led Judah away from the worship of Yahweh, embracing idolatry and foreign alliances that had lasting consequences for the nation.Reign and Religious Practices Ahaz ascended to the throne at the age of 20 and reigned for 16 years in Jerusalem (2 Kings 16:2). Unlike his father Jotham, who was faithful to the LORD, Ahaz is noted for his departure from the religious practices of his forefathers. He is described as having "walked in the ways of the kings of Israel" and even "made his son pass through the fire," a reference to the detestable practices associated with the worship of foreign gods (2 Kings 16:3). Ahaz's reign was marked by significant religious apostasy. He erected altars to Baal, made offerings on the high places, and introduced the worship of the gods of Damascus after being impressed by an altar he saw there (2 Kings 16:10-12). This syncretism and idolatry were in direct violation of the covenantal laws given to Israel and Judah, leading to spiritual and moral decline. Political Alliances and Conflicts During Ahaz's reign, Judah faced significant external threats, particularly from the Syro-Ephraimite coalition. Rezin, king of Aram, and Pekah, son of Remaliah, king of Israel, waged war against Judah, besieging Jerusalem (2 Kings 16:5). In response, Ahaz sought assistance from Tiglath-Pileser III, the king of Assyria, offering silver and gold from the temple and royal treasury as tribute (2 Kings 16:7-8). This alliance with Assyria, while providing temporary relief, ultimately led to Judah's subjugation and increased Assyrian influence in the region. The prophet Isaiah was active during Ahaz's reign, offering counsel and warning against reliance on foreign powers. Isaiah's message emphasized trust in the LORD rather than political alliances, as seen in the famous Immanuel prophecy (Isaiah 7:14), which foretold the birth of a child as a sign of God's presence and deliverance. Legacy and Impact Ahaz's reign is often viewed negatively due to his idolatrous practices and political decisions that compromised Judah's sovereignty. His actions set a precedent that would have repercussions for future generations, contributing to the eventual downfall of the kingdom. Despite his failures, the Davidic line continued through his son Hezekiah, who would later bring about significant religious reforms. Ahaz's account serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of abandoning faithfulness to God in favor of political expediency and cultural assimilation. His reign is a reminder of the importance of covenantal fidelity and the consequences of turning away from divine guidance. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 15:38And Jotham slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David his father: and Ahaz his son reigned in his stead. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 16:1 2 Chronicles 27:9 2 Chronicles 28:1 Library How Upon the Death of Jotham, Ahaz Reigned in his Stead; against ... The Earlier Hebrew Histories. Of the Times of the Prophets Whose Oracles are Contained in Books ... The Hebrew Prophecies. The Greater Prophets. Appendices Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... The Assumption of Moses Resources Who was King Pekah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgIs 'virgin' or 'young woman' the correct translation of Isaiah 7:14? | GotQuestions.org Why did God sometimes judge the entire nation for the actions of its king? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Ahaz: King of Judah, Son and Successor of Jotham Ahaz: King of Judah, Son and Successor of Jotham: Idolatrous Abominations of Ahaz: King of Judah, Son and Successor of Jotham: Prophecies Concerning Ahaz: King of Judah, Son and Successor of Jotham: Prophets in the Reign of Ahaz: King of Judah, Son and Successor of Jotham: Succeeded by Hezekiah Ahaz: King of Judah, Son and Successor of Jotham: Sundial of Related Terms Tiglathpileser (3 Occurrences) Tiglath-pileser (6 Occurrences) Tig'lath-pile'ser (3 Occurrences) |
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