Introduction:
Uzziah, also known as Azariah, was a king of Judah whose reign is noted for both prosperity and divine judgment. His account is recorded in the books of 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles, and referenced by the prophet Amos. Uzziah's reign is marked by significant achievements, military successes, and a notable earthquake that left a lasting impression on the people of his time.

Reign and Achievements:
Uzziah became king of Judah at the age of sixteen and reigned for fifty-two years (2 Kings 15:2). His reign is characterized by a period of prosperity and strength for the kingdom of Judah. Uzziah was known for his military prowess and innovative strategies. He fortified Jerusalem, built towers, and equipped his army with advanced weaponry, including engines designed to shoot arrows and large stones (2 Chronicles 26:9-15).

Under Uzziah's leadership, Judah experienced economic growth and agricultural development. He loved the soil and had many workers in the fields and vineyards, for he was a man who loved the land (2 Chronicles 26:10). His fame spread far and wide, for he was marvelously helped until he became strong (2 Chronicles 26:15).

Religious Observance and Pride:
Uzziah initially did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, following the example of his father Amaziah (2 Kings 15:3). However, as his power grew, so did his pride, leading to his downfall. In a moment of hubris, Uzziah entered the temple of the LORD to burn incense on the altar, a duty reserved for the priests, the descendants of Aaron (2 Chronicles 26:16-18).

The priests confronted him, and as Uzziah became angry, leprosy broke out on his forehead. He was hurried out of the temple, and he lived in a separate house, excluded from the temple of the LORD until his death (2 Chronicles 26:19-21).

The Earthquake:
One of the most significant events during Uzziah's reign was a great earthquake. Although the Bible does not provide extensive details about the earthquake itself, it is mentioned in the book of Amos: "The words of Amos, who was among the shepherds of Tekoa—what he saw concerning Israel two years before the earthquake" (Amos 1:1). This earthquake was so memorable that it served as a chronological marker for the prophet's visions.

The prophet Zechariah also alludes to this earthquake, indicating its impact on the collective memory of the people: "You will flee as you fled from the earthquake in the days of Uzziah king of Judah" (Zechariah 14:5). The earthquake is seen as a divine act, possibly a judgment or a sign of God's power and sovereignty.

Legacy:
Uzziah's reign is a complex tapestry of success and failure. His achievements in strengthening Judah and his initial faithfulness to God are overshadowed by his pride and subsequent punishment. The earthquake during his reign serves as a reminder of the divine authority and the consequences of human pride. Uzziah's life and reign are a testament to the biblical principle that pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall (Proverbs 16:18).Amos 1:1
The words of Amos, who was among the herdsmen of Tekoa, which he saw concerning Israel in the days of Uzziah king of Judah, and in the days of Jeroboam the son of Joash king of Israel, two years before the earthquake.
Nave's Topical Index

Zechariah 14:5
And you shall flee to the valley of the mountains; for the valley of the mountains shall reach to Azal: yes, you shall flee, like as you fled from before the earthquake in the days of Uzziah king of Judah: and the LORD my God shall come, and all the saints with you.
Nave's Topical Index

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... 14) and Hosea (x.5), where Bethel is called Beth-aven ... speak of those mentioned in
the Chronicles, eg Azariah son of ... date as being "in the days of Uzziah king of ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm

Why do some people in the Bible have more than one name? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Azariah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What was/is the importance of the gates of Jerusalem? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus