Topical Bible: Iconoclasm: Destroyed by Manasseh

◄ Iconoclasm: Destroyed by Manasseh ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Iconoclasm, the destruction of religious icons and symbols, finds a significant biblical reference in the reign of King Manasseh of Judah. Manasseh, the son of Hezekiah, is noted for his departure from the religious reforms of his father and his embrace of idolatry, which included the destruction of sacred objects and the desecration of the temple in Jerusalem.

Historical Context

Manasseh ascended to the throne of Judah at the age of twelve and reigned for fifty-five years, making him one of the longest-reigning monarchs in the history of Judah (2 Kings 21:1). His reign is marked by a stark contrast to that of his father, Hezekiah, who was known for his faithfulness to Yahweh and his efforts to rid Judah of idolatry. Manasseh's actions are seen as a direct reversal of these reforms, leading to a period of spiritual decline in the kingdom.

Biblical Account

The account of Manasseh's iconoclasm is detailed in 2 Kings 21 and 2 Chronicles 33. The Berean Standard Bible describes Manasseh's actions as follows:

"He rebuilt the high places that his father Hezekiah had destroyed; he also erected altars for Baal and made an Asherah pole, as Ahab king of Israel had done. He bowed down to all the host of heaven and served them" (2 Kings 21:3).

Manasseh's iconoclastic activities included the construction of altars for foreign gods within the temple courts, a direct violation of the sanctity of the temple, which was meant to be the dwelling place of the LORD. The text further states:

"He built altars in the house of the LORD, of which the LORD had said, 'In Jerusalem I will put My Name.' In both courtyards of the house of the LORD, he built altars to all the host of heaven" (2 Kings 21:4-5).

Religious and Cultural Impact

Manasseh's actions had profound religious and cultural implications for Judah. By introducing and promoting idolatry, he led the nation into practices that were abominable in the sight of the LORD. The worship of celestial bodies and the erection of altars to foreign deities represented a significant departure from the covenantal relationship established between God and Israel.

The desecration of the temple, a central place of worship and symbol of God's presence among His people, was particularly egregious. Manasseh's iconoclasm not only defiled the sacred space but also undermined the religious identity of the nation, leading to moral and spiritual decay.

Divine Judgment and Repentance

The biblical narrative attributes the eventual downfall of Judah to the sins of Manasseh, highlighting the severity of his actions. The LORD's response to Manasseh's iconoclasm is one of impending judgment:

"Because Manasseh king of Judah has committed these abominations and has done more evil than the Amorites who preceded him, and has led Judah into sin with his idols, therefore this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: 'Behold, I am bringing such calamity upon Jerusalem and Judah that the ears of all who hear of it will tingle'" (2 Kings 21:11-12).

Despite his initial rebellion, Manasseh's account takes a redemptive turn in 2 Chronicles 33, where he is captured by the Assyrians and taken to Babylon. In his distress, Manasseh humbles himself and seeks the LORD's favor. The LORD hears his plea and restores him to his kingdom, leading to a period of reform where Manasseh attempts to undo some of the damage he had caused.

Conclusion

Manasseh's reign serves as a cautionary tale of the consequences of turning away from God and embracing idolatry. His iconoclastic actions and subsequent repentance highlight the themes of judgment and mercy, underscoring the enduring call to faithfulness and the possibility of redemption even after grave sin.

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2 Chronicles 33:15
And he took away the strange gods, and the idol out of the house of the LORD, and all the altars that he had built in the mount of the house of the LORD, and in Jerusalem, and cast them out of the city.
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