Introduction:
Uzziah, also known as Azariah, was a king of Judah who reigned in the 8th century BC. His reign is noted for its length, prosperity, and military success, as well as for his eventual downfall due to pride. Uzziah's account is primarily found in 2 Kings 15:1-7 and 2 Chronicles 26.

Background:
Uzziah was the son of Amaziah, king of Judah, and his mother was Jecoliah of Jerusalem. He ascended to the throne at the age of sixteen after the assassination of his father. Uzziah's reign lasted for 52 years, making it one of the longest in the history of Judah.

Reign and Achievements:
Uzziah's reign is characterized by significant military and economic achievements. He fortified Jerusalem and built towers in the desert, dug many cisterns, and developed agriculture, as he loved the soil (2 Chronicles 26:9-10). Uzziah's military campaigns were successful, and he expanded Judah's territory, subduing the Philistines and the Arabians, and receiving tribute from the Ammonites (2 Chronicles 26:6-8).

Under Uzziah's leadership, Judah experienced a period of prosperity and technological advancement. He equipped his army with advanced weaponry, including machines designed to shoot arrows and large stones (2 Chronicles 26:14-15). His fame spread far and wide, as he was marvelously helped until he became strong.

Religious Observance:
Uzziah is noted for doing what was right in the eyes of the LORD, following the example of his father Amaziah. He sought God during the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of God (2 Chronicles 26:4-5). As long as he sought the LORD, God gave him success.

Downfall:
Despite his accomplishments, Uzziah's reign ended in tragedy due to his pride. When he became powerful, his heart was lifted up to his destruction. He 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). Azariah the priest and eighty other courageous priests confronted him, warning him of his transgression.

In his anger, Uzziah persisted, and as a result, the LORD struck him with leprosy. The leprosy appeared on his forehead while he was in the temple, and he was hurriedly removed. Uzziah lived in a separate house, excluded from the temple, until his death (2 Chronicles 26:19-21).

Legacy:
Uzziah's reign is remembered for its initial faithfulness and prosperity, followed by a cautionary tale of pride and disobedience. His son Jotham took over the responsibilities of governance during Uzziah's isolation and succeeded him as king upon his death. Uzziah was buried in the field of the burial that belonged to the kings, for they said, "He is a leper" (2 Kings 15:7; 2 Chronicles 26:23).

Biblical References:
· 2 Kings 15:1-7
· 2 Chronicles 26

Uzziah's reign serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and obedience to God's commandments, illustrating the consequences of pride and the significance of seeking the LORD in all endeavors.