Topical Encyclopedia Ozias is a variant form of the name Uzziah, who was a prominent king of Judah. The name "Ozias" is often encountered in the genealogies and historical accounts within the biblical texts, particularly in the Greek Septuagint and in the genealogy of Jesus as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew. The name Uzziah means "The LORD is my strength," reflecting the king's reliance on divine support during his reign.Historical Context and Reign King Uzziah, also known as Azariah, was the son of Amaziah and became king of Judah at the age of sixteen. His reign is recorded in 2 Kings 15:1-7 and 2 Chronicles 26. Uzziah's rule lasted for fifty-two years, during which he was known for his military prowess, architectural achievements, and agricultural advancements. Under his leadership, Judah experienced a period of prosperity and relative peace. Uzziah's reign is marked by his initial faithfulness to God, as he sought the Lord and was instructed by the prophet Zechariah. 2 Chronicles 26:5 states, "He sought God during the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of God. As long as he sought the LORD, God gave him success." Achievements and Contributions Uzziah's accomplishments were numerous. He fortified Jerusalem, built towers, and improved the city's defenses. He also expanded Judah's territory and influence, subduing the Philistines and other neighboring nations. His military innovations included the development of advanced weaponry and the organization of a well-trained army, as described in 2 Chronicles 26:14-15 : "Uzziah provided the entire army with shields, spears, helmets, armor, bows, and slingstones. In Jerusalem he made skillfully designed devices to shoot arrows and hurl large stones from the towers and corners. So his fame spread far and wide, for he was helped marvelously until he became powerful." Uzziah also focused on agricultural development, digging wells and promoting farming and livestock, which contributed to the economic stability of Judah. Downfall and Legacy Despite his successes, Uzziah's reign ended in tragedy due to his pride and disobedience to God. In a moment of hubris, he unlawfully entered the temple to burn incense on the altar, a duty reserved for the priests. This act of sacrilege led to his downfall, as God struck him with leprosy. 2 Chronicles 26:19-21 recounts, "Uzziah, who had a censer in his hand ready to burn incense, became angry. But while he raged against the priests in their presence before the altar of incense in the house of the LORD, leprosy broke out on his forehead. When Azariah the chief priest and all the priests turned to him and saw that he was leprous on his forehead, they hurried him out. Indeed, he himself was eager to leave, because the LORD had afflicted him. So King Uzziah had leprosy until the day of his death. He lived in a separate house, leprous and excluded from the house of the LORD." Uzziah's leprosy forced him into isolation, and his son Jotham took over the responsibilities of governance. Despite his tragic end, Uzziah is remembered for his contributions to Judah's prosperity and his initial faithfulness to God. His account serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and the importance of obedience to divine commandments. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 1:8,9And Asa begat Josaphat; and Josaphat begat Joram; and Joram begat Ozias; Nave's Topical Index Library The Historical Books. 1 the New Testament... Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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