2 Chronicles 32:33

KJV

And Hezekiah slept with his fathers, and they buried him in the chiefest of the sepulchres of the sons of David: and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem did him honour at his death. And Manasseh his son reigned in his stead.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Hezekiah {H3169} slept {H7901} with his fathers {H1}, and they buried {H6912} him in the chiefest {H4608} of the sepulchres {H6913} of the sons {H1121} of David {H1732}: and all Judah {H3063} and the inhabitants {H3427} of Jerusalem {H3389} did him {H6213} honour {H3519} at his death {H4194}. And Manasseh {H4519} his son {H1121} reigned {H4427} in his stead.

Complete Jewish Bible

Then Hizkiyahu slept with his ancestors, and they buried him by the path leading up to the tombs of the descendants of David. All Y'hudah and the people living in Yerushalayim honored him when he died, after which M'nasheh his son took his place as king.

Berean Standard Bible

And Hezekiah rested with his fathers and was buried in the upper tombs of David’s descendants. All Judah and the people of Jerusalem paid him honor at his death. And his son Manasseh reigned in his place.

American Standard Version

And Hezekiah slept with his fathers, and they buried him in the ascent of the sepulchres of the sons of David: and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem did him honor at his death. And Manasseh his son reigned in his stead.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Chronicles 32:33 provides a dignified and honorable conclusion to the reign of King Hezekiah, a monarch celebrated for his profound spiritual reforms and unwavering trust in God amidst national crises. The verse meticulously records his peaceful passing, his highly esteemed burial among the most prominent of the Davidic kings, and the widespread respect shown to him by all Judah and Jerusalem. This moment of commendation, however, is immediately juxtaposed with the succession of his son, Manasseh, a transition that ominously foreshadows a drastic and devastating spiritual decline for the nation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the concluding summary of King Hezekiah's extensive narrative within 2 Chronicles, following a detailed account of his remarkable reign. Chapter 32, in particular, highlights his steadfast faith during the formidable Assyrian invasion led by [Sennacherib](/2_chronicles/32-1 "2 Chronicles 32:1 - Sennacherib's Invasion"), his miraculous recovery from a life-threatening illness, and his subsequent struggle with pride, culminating in a period of humbling and repentance ([2 Chronicles 32:24-26](/2_chronicles/32-24 "2 Chronicles 32:24-26 - Hezekiah's Illness and Recovery")). The Chronicler meticulously portrays Hezekiah as a righteous king, a stark contrast to his unfaithful father, Ahaz, whose ignominious burial is noted in [2 Chronicles 28:27](/2_chronicles/28-27 "2 Chronicles 28:27 - Ahaz's Burial"). The immediate mention of Manasseh’s succession in the same verse creates a powerful narrative transition, setting the stage for the unparalleled wickedness that would characterize the next chapter of Judah's history.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the manner of a king's burial was a significant indicator of his legacy and divine favor. To "sleep with his fathers" was a common euphemism for a peaceful death, implying a natural end to a life and joining one's ancestors. The phrase "chiefest of the sepulchres of the sons of David" points to a highly distinguished burial site, likely within or adjacent to the royal necropolis in the City of David. This was not a universal privilege; unfaithful kings like Ahaz ([2 Chronicles 28:27](/2_chronicles/28-27 "2 Chronicles 28:27 - Ahaz's Burial")) or Joash ([2 Chronicles 24:25](/2_chronicles/24-25 "2 Chronicles 24:25 - Joash's Burial")) were denied burial in the royal tombs, signifying divine displeasure and public disdain. The widespread honor shown by "all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem" underscores the profound respect and admiration Hezekiah had garnered, reflecting a collective acknowledgment of his righteous leadership and the blessings it brought to the nation.
* **Key Themes:** This verse encapsulates several pivotal themes central to the Chronicler's theological agenda. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Honor and Blessing**, demonstrating that God honors those who honor Him, as articulated in [1 Samuel 2:30](/1_samuel/2-30 "1 Samuel 2:30 - God Honors Those Who Honor Him"). Hezekiah's distinguished burial and the public homage reflect God's favor upon a king who diligently sought Him and initiated widespread spiritual reforms throughout his reign ([2 Chronicles 29:3](/2_chronicles/29-3 "2 Chronicles 29:3 - Hezekiah's Reforms Begin")). Secondly, it highlights the **Legacy of Righteous Leadership**, showcasing how a king's faithfulness can profoundly impact a nation's spiritual and moral trajectory, leaving an enduring positive mark. Finally, the abrupt transition to Manasseh introduces the theme of **Generational Responsibility and Spiritual Contrast**. Despite Hezekiah's profound spiritual achievements, the immediate succession of a notoriously wicked son illustrates the fragile nature of spiritual gains and the critical need for each generation to actively pursue faithfulness to God, as the piety of one generation does not guarantee the devotion of the next ([2 Chronicles 33:1-9](/2_chronicles/33-1 "2 Chronicles 33:1-9 - Manasseh's Wicked Reign")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **slept (Hebrew, _shakhav'_):** This verb, literally meaning "to lie down," is a common biblical euphemism for death, particularly when applied to kings and patriarchs. It conveys a sense of peaceful passing and joining one's ancestors in the grave, rather than a violent or untimely end. The phrase "slept with his fathers" is a recurring motif in the books of Kings and Chronicles, signifying a natural and accepted end to a monarch's life and reign.
* **chiefest (Hebrew, _ma'alah'_):** This term literally means "ascent," "going up," or "highest place." In this context, it denotes the most prominent, elevated, or honorable section of the royal burial grounds. It signifies a burial place of exceptional distinction, setting Hezekiah apart from kings who were buried less honorably due to their unfaithfulness, even if they were still interred within the City of David. This detail emphasizes the extraordinary respect and honor bestowed upon Hezekiah.
* **did him honour (Hebrew, _kavadh'_):** The root of this word means "to be heavy" or "to be weighty," which extends to concepts of glory, honor, and respect. Here, it indicates that "all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem" showed profound reverence, respect, and perhaps engaged in significant mourning rituals for Hezekiah. This public display of honor underscores the widespread recognition of his righteous character and the positive impact of his reign on the nation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Hezekiah slept with his fathers":** This clause signifies the peaceful and natural death of King Hezekiah, employing a common biblical idiom for the passing of monarchs. It implies a dignified end to his life, free from violent overthrow or divine judgment in his final moments.
* **"and they buried him in the chiefest of the sepulchres of the sons of David":** This phrase details the exceptional honor bestowed upon Hezekiah in his burial. Unlike some unfaithful kings who were denied burial in the royal tombs, Hezekiah was interred in the most prominent or distinguished section of the Davidic royal necropolis, signifying a profound level of respect and divine approval for his righteous reign.
* **"and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem did him honour at his death":** This clause emphasizes the widespread public mourning and respect shown to Hezekiah. The entire nation, particularly the people of Jerusalem, collectively acknowledged and celebrated his life and legacy, a testament to his positive influence and the spiritual revival he spearheaded.
* **"And Manasseh his son reigned in his stead":** This final clause abruptly shifts the narrative focus to Hezekiah's successor. The immediate mention of Manasseh, without further immediate detail, serves as a stark and ominous transition, foreshadowing the dramatic and devastating spiritual decline that would characterize his reign, contrasting sharply with his father's righteousness.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant **literary devices**. The phrase "slept with his fathers" is a classic **euphemism** for death, softening the stark reality of passing and emphasizing a peaceful, natural end. More powerfully, the verse utilizes **juxtaposition** and **contrast**. The detailed description of Hezekiah's honorable death and burial is immediately followed by the simple, factual statement of Manasseh's succession. This abrupt transition creates a stark **dramatic irony** for the reader, who knows from subsequent chapters that Manasseh would lead Judah into unprecedented idolatry and wickedness, undoing much of Hezekiah's righteous work. The "chiefest of the sepulchres" serves as **symbolism**, representing divine approval and public recognition of Hezekiah's exceptional faithfulness and the positive impact of his reign, a stark counterpoint to the less honorable burials of unfaithful kings.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The dignified conclusion to Hezekiah's reign, marked by exceptional honor in burial and widespread public respect, powerfully illustrates the biblical principle that "those who honor me I will honor" ([1 Samuel 2:30](/1_samuel/2-30 "1 Samuel 2:30 - God Honors Those Who Honor Him")). Hezekiah's life was characterized by a deep commitment to God, leading to national revival and deliverance, and his death reflected the divine favor he had cultivated. This verse underscores the profound impact of righteous leadership, demonstrating how one individual's faithfulness can profoundly shape the spiritual destiny of a nation. However, the immediate mention of Manasseh's succession serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of spiritual legacy across generations. While Hezekiah built up Judah's spiritual health, the subsequent reign would see it plummet into deep apostasy, highlighting that spiritual vibrancy is not automatically inherited but requires continuous, personal commitment.

* [1 Samuel 2:30](/1_samuel/2-30 "1 Samuel 2:30 - Those Who Honor Me I Will Honor")
* [Proverbs 10:7](/proverbs/10-7 "Proverbs 10:7 - The Memory of the Righteous")
* [2 Chronicles 33:1-9](/2_chronicles/33-1 "2 Chronicles 33:1-9 - Manasseh's Wicked Reign")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hezekiah's honorable end serves as a profound testament to the enduring impact of a life lived in devotion to God. His legacy reminds us that true honor is not merely about worldly acclaim, but about the respect earned through faithfulness to divine principles and the positive influence we exert on those around us. This passage challenges us to consider the kind of legacy we are building—not just for our immediate families, but for our communities and future generations. The stark contrast between Hezekiah and Manasseh also compels us to recognize the profound responsibility of leadership, whether in the home, church, or workplace, for good or for ill. Ultimately, it is a call to personal accountability: while we can be inspired by the faith of others, spiritual vibrancy is not inherited; each individual must cultivate their own active, living relationship with God, ensuring that the spiritual gains of one generation are not squandered by the next.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Hezekiah's legacy challenge me to live a life that prioritizes honoring God above all else?**
* **What kind of spiritual legacy am I actively building for those who will come after me, and what steps can I take to strengthen it?**
* **In what areas of my life am I called to exercise leadership, and how can I ensure my influence consistently points others towards righteousness, learning from the contrast between Hezekiah and Manasseh?**

### FAQ

**Why was Hezekiah buried with such honor compared to other kings?**

Answer: Hezekiah was buried with exceptional honor because of his exemplary righteousness and unwavering devotion to God throughout his reign. Unlike many other kings of Judah, Hezekiah initiated widespread spiritual reforms, cleansing the temple, restoring proper worship, and leading the nation back to the Lord ([2 Chronicles 29](/2_chronicles/29 "2 Chronicles 29 - Hezekiah's Reforms")). He also demonstrated profound faith during the Assyrian invasion, trusting God for deliverance when Jerusalem was besieged ([2 Chronicles 32:7-8](/2_chronicles/32-7 "2 Chronicles 32:7-8 - Hezekiah's Trust in God")). This faithfulness earned him divine favor and the deep respect of his people, resulting in a burial in the "chiefest of the sepulchres," a distinction not afforded to unfaithful kings like his father Ahaz ([2 Chronicles 28:27](/2_chronicles/28-27 "2 Chronicles 28:27 - Ahaz's Burial")).

**What does "slept with his fathers" mean?**

Answer: "Slept with his fathers" is a common biblical euphemism for death, particularly used in the Old Testament when referring to the passing of kings and patriarchs. It signifies a peaceful and natural end to life, rather than a violent or untimely death. The phrase implies that the deceased has joined their ancestors in the grave, indicating a continuity of lineage and a natural conclusion to their earthly existence. It does not carry any theological implication about the state of the soul after death, but simply describes the physical act of dying.

**How does Manasseh's succession immediately after Hezekiah's death impact the narrative?**

Answer: The immediate mention of Manasseh's succession creates a stark and poignant contrast that profoundly impacts the narrative. Hezekiah's reign was a period of significant spiritual revival and national blessing, marked by his righteousness and trust in God. However, Manasseh, his son, would become one of Judah's most wicked kings, leading the nation into unprecedented idolatry, child sacrifice, and bloodshed ([2 Chronicles 33:1-9](/2_chronicles/33-1 "2 Chronicles 33:1-9 - Manasseh's Wicked Reign")). This abrupt transition highlights the fragility of spiritual gains across generations and the critical importance of individual choice and faithfulness. It serves as a sobering reminder that even the most godly leadership cannot guarantee the spiritual trajectory of the next generation, underscoring the constant need for personal commitment to God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The honorable end of King Hezekiah, a righteous "son of David" ([Matthew 1:1](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - Jesus, Son of David")), foreshadows the ultimate King, Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodies the ideal of righteous leadership. While Hezekiah's reign, though commendable, was temporary and his legacy ultimately followed by the tragic apostasy of his son Manasseh, Jesus' reign is eternal and His spiritual kingdom will never pass away ([Luke 1:33](/luke/1-33 "Luke 1:33 - Jesus' Eternal Kingdom")). Hezekiah's distinguished burial in the "chiefest of the sepulchres" speaks to the honor bestowed upon a faithful servant, yet it pales in comparison to the ultimate honor and exaltation of Christ. Jesus, the true [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), "slept with his fathers" in death, but His burial was not an end but a prelude to resurrection and triumph over the grave ([1 Corinthians 15:54](/1_corinthians/15-54 "1 Corinthians 15:54 - Death Swallowed Up in Victory")). Unlike Manasseh, who brought spiritual decline, Jesus inaugurates an everlasting reign of righteousness, becoming "the Lord Our Righteousness" ([Jeremiah 23:6](/jeremiah/23-6 "Jeremiah 23:6 - The Lord Our Righteousness")) for all who believe. He is the [King of kings and Lord of lords](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords"), whose perfect life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection secure an eternal legacy of salvation and spiritual flourishing for His people, a legacy that will never be undone by subsequent generations.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 10:7

¶ The memory of the just [is] blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot.

1 Kings 2:10

So David slept with his fathers, and was buried in the city of David.

1 Kings 1:21

Otherwise it shall come to pass, when my lord the king shall sleep with his fathers, that I and my son Solomon shall be counted offenders.

1 Kings 11:43

And Solomon slept with his fathers, and was buried in the city of David his father: and Rehoboam his son reigned in his stead.

1 Samuel 2:30

Wherefore the LORD God of Israel saith, I said indeed [that] thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me for ever: but now the LORD saith, Be it far from me; for them that honour me I will honour, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed.

1 Samuel 25:1

¶ And Samuel died; and all the Israelites were gathered together, and lamented him, and buried him in his house at Ramah. And David arose, and went down to the wilderness of Paran.

Numbers 20:29

And when all the congregation saw that Aaron was dead, they mourned for Aaron thirty days, [even] all the house of Israel.