Introduction:
Azariah, also known as Uzziah, was a king of Judah whose reign is documented in the Old Testament. His account is primarily found in 2 Kings 15:1-7 and 2 Chronicles 26. Azariah's reign is noted for its length, prosperity, and eventual downfall due to pride and disobedience to God.

Historical Context:
Azariah was the son of Amaziah and became king of Judah at the age of sixteen. His reign lasted for fifty-two years, making it one of the longest in the history of the divided kingdom. This period was marked by relative stability and prosperity for Judah, as well as significant military and architectural achievements.

Biblical Account:
The account of Azariah's reign begins in 2 Kings 15:1-7. The Berean Standard Bible states: "In the twenty-seventh year of Jeroboam king of Israel, Azariah son of Amaziah became king of Judah. He was sixteen years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-two years. His mother’s name was Jecoliah; she was from Jerusalem."

Azariah is described as doing "what was right in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father Amaziah had done" (2 Kings 15:3). However, the high places were not removed, and the people continued to offer sacrifices and burn incense there.

Achievements:
Azariah's reign was marked by significant achievements. He fortified Jerusalem, built towers, and improved the military defenses of Judah. He also expanded agricultural development, digging many wells and promoting livestock and farming. His military campaigns were successful, and he subdued the Philistines, Arabs, and Meunites, extending Judah's influence and securing its borders.

2 Chronicles 26 provides a more detailed account of his accomplishments, highlighting his innovations in military technology, including the development of engines designed by skillful men to shoot arrows and large stones.

Downfall:
Despite his successes, Azariah's reign ended in tragedy due to his pride. 2 Chronicles 26:16 states, "But after Uzziah became powerful, his pride led to his downfall. He was unfaithful to the LORD his God, for he entered the temple of the LORD to burn incense on the altar of incense."

This act of presumption was a direct violation of the Levitical law, which reserved the priestly duties for the descendants of Aaron. Azariah's attempt to usurp the priestly role resulted in God striking him with leprosy. He lived in isolation until his death, while his son Jotham governed the people in his stead.

Legacy:
Azariah's reign is a poignant reminder of the dangers of pride and the importance of obedience to God's commandments. His initial faithfulness brought prosperity and strength to Judah, but his later actions serve as a cautionary tale of the consequences of overstepping divine boundaries. Despite his downfall, Azariah is remembered as a king who, for much of his reign, sought to do what was right in the eyes of the Lord.