Background:
Uzziah, also known as Azariah, was the king of Judah who reigned for 52 years during the 8th century BC. His reign is noted for its prosperity and military success, as well as for his efforts in fortifying Jerusalem and expanding agricultural development. Uzziah's account is primarily recorded in 2 Kings 15:1-7 and 2 Chronicles 26.

Incident of Leprosy:
The account of Uzziah's leprosy is detailed in 2 Chronicles 26:16-21. Uzziah's downfall began with his pride. As his power and fame grew, he became arrogant, leading to a significant transgression against the Lord. The Berean Standard Bible 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" (2 Chronicles 26:16).

According to the Law of Moses, only the priests, descendants of Aaron, were permitted to burn incense in the temple (Exodus 30:7-8). Uzziah's attempt to perform this priestly duty was a direct violation of God's commandments, reflecting a disregard for the established order and sacred duties assigned by God.

Divine Judgment:
As Uzziah was confronted by Azariah the priest and eighty other courageous priests of the LORD, he became angry. In the midst of his anger, leprosy broke out on his forehead. The BSB records, "While he was raging at the priests in their presence before the incense altar in the LORD’s temple, leprosy broke out on his forehead" (2 Chronicles 26:19). This immediate affliction was a divine judgment, signifying God's disapproval of Uzziah's actions.

Consequences:
Uzziah's leprosy had profound implications for his reign and personal life. He was forced to live in a separate house, isolated from the temple and the community, as leprosy rendered him ceremonially unclean. The BSB notes, "King Uzziah had leprosy until the day he died. He lived in a separate house, leprous and excluded from the house of the LORD" (2 Chronicles 26:21). His son Jotham took over the governance of the kingdom, acting as regent during Uzziah's isolation.

Theological Significance:
Uzziah's leprosy serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and the importance of obedience to God's commandments. His account underscores the principle that no one, regardless of their status or achievements, is above God's law. Uzziah's attempt to usurp the priestly role highlights the distinct roles and responsibilities ordained by God, emphasizing the need for humility and reverence in worship.

Legacy:
Despite his tragic end, Uzziah is remembered for his contributions to Judah's prosperity and strength. His reign is often seen as a period of relative peace and development. However, his leprosy remains a stark reminder of the consequences of pride and disobedience. Uzziah's life and reign are a testament to the biblical truth that "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble" (James 4:6).