Topical Encyclopedia The Garden of Uzza is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the burial of certain kings of Judah. It is referenced in 2 Kings 21:18, 26 and 2 Chronicles 33:20, where it serves as the burial site for King Manasseh and his son, King Amon.Biblical References: 1. 2 Kings 21:18 : "And Manasseh rested with his fathers and was buried in his palace garden, the garden of Uzza. And his son Amon reigned in his place." 2. 2 Kings 21:26 : "He was buried in his tomb in the garden of Uzza, and his son Josiah reigned in his place." 3. 2 Chronicles 33:20 : "And Manasseh rested with his fathers and was buried in his palace. And his son Amon reigned in his place." Historical and Cultural Context: The Garden of Uzza is significant as it marks a departure from the traditional burial practices of the kings of Judah. Typically, the kings were buried in the City of David, a site of great historical and religious importance. The decision to bury Manasseh and Amon in the Garden of Uzza may reflect the tumultuous and idolatrous reigns of these kings, particularly Manasseh, who is noted for his extensive idolatry and evil practices, as described in 2 Kings 21:1-17 and 2 Chronicles 33:1-9. The name "Uzza" itself is not explained in the biblical text, leading to various interpretations and speculations. Some scholars suggest that Uzza could have been a notable figure or a previous owner of the garden, while others propose that the name might be linked to a deity or a place associated with idolatrous worship, given the context of Manasseh's reign. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the Garden of Uzza serves as a symbol of the spiritual decline during the reigns of Manasseh and Amon. Manasseh's reign is characterized by the reintroduction of pagan worship, the desecration of the temple, and the shedding of innocent blood, as noted in 2 Kings 21:16. His burial in the Garden of Uzza, away from the traditional royal tombs, may signify divine disfavor and the consequences of his actions. Amon, following in his father's footsteps, continued the idolatrous practices, as described in 2 Kings 21:19-22. His brief reign and subsequent assassination further underscore the instability and moral decay of the period. The burial of both kings in the Garden of Uzza can be seen as a reflection of their failure to uphold the covenantal standards expected of the Davidic line. Archaeological Considerations: While the exact location of the Garden of Uzza remains uncertain, it is generally believed to have been situated near the royal palace in Jerusalem. Archaeological evidence for the garden itself is lacking, but the mention of such a burial site in the biblical narrative highlights the importance of gardens and private burial grounds in ancient Near Eastern royal culture. In summary, the Garden of Uzza is a notable site in the biblical narrative, associated with the burial of two kings whose reigns were marked by significant religious and moral challenges. Its mention in the Scriptures serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from the covenantal relationship with God. Smith's Bible Dictionary the Garden Of Uzzathe spot in which Manasseh king of Judah and his son Amon were buried. (2 Kings 21:18,26) It was the garden attached to Manasseh's palace. ver. 18. The fact of its mention shows that it was not where the usual sepulchres of the kings were. No clue, however, is afforded to its position. Library Christian Behavior The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria Resources The: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics the Epistle of Paul To Philemon the First Epistle General Of John The Kingdom or Church of Christ the Second and Third Epistles Of John Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |