2 Chronicles 33:13

Context of 2 Chronicles 33:13

Second Chronicles 33:13 is a pivotal verse in the narrative of King Manasseh of Judah. His reign, spanning 55 years, was marked by unparalleled wickedness, described in detail earlier in the chapter (2 Chronicles 33:1-9). He rebuilt the high places, erected altars to Baal, worshipped the host of heaven, practiced child sacrifice, divination, and sorcery, and even placed carved images in the temple of the Lord. This led to God's judgment, and Manasseh was captured by the Assyrians, taken in chains to Babylon (2 Chronicles 33:11). It was in this state of severe affliction that Manasseh humbled himself greatly and prayed to God (2 Chronicles 33:12). Verse 13 describes the miraculous result of that desperate prayer.

Key Themes and Messages

• The Power of Repentance and Prayer: Manasseh's story profoundly illustrates that no sin is too great for God's forgiveness if accompanied by genuine repentance. His prayer, born out of humility and affliction, moved the heart of God. This highlights the transformative power of fervent prayer, even from the most unlikely of individuals.
• God's Boundless Mercy and Forgiveness: Despite Manasseh's egregious sins—which far surpassed those of previous kings—God was "intreated of him," meaning He was moved by his plea and responded with compassion. This demonstrates God's incredible mercy and readiness to forgive those who genuinely turn to Him, as also seen in passages like Isaiah 55:7.
• Divine Restoration: Not only did God forgive Manasseh, but He also restored him to his kingdom in Jerusalem. This act of restoration is a powerful testament to God's ability to heal and rebuild, even after immense spiritual and physical devastation. It shows that God's grace extends beyond mere forgiveness to full reconciliation and renewed purpose.
• True Knowledge of God: The verse culminates with "Then Manasseh knew that the LORD he [was] God." This was not just intellectual acknowledgment but a profound, experiential realization. After years of idolatry and rebellion, Manasseh finally recognized the singular sovereignty and power of the one true God. This spiritual awakening led to significant reforms in Judah (2 Chronicles 33:15-16).

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "he was intreated of him" is an archaic but powerful expression. It signifies that God was favorably disposed toward Manasseh's plea; He was moved to compassion and granted his request. The Hebrew word behind "intreated" (עָתַר, 'atar) implies being entreated, prayed to, or prevailed upon. It emphasizes God's receptiveness to genuine supplication. The concluding statement, "Then Manasseh knew that the LORD he [was] God," highlights a profound spiritual transformation from a polytheistic worldview to a true understanding and worship of Yahweh, the God of Israel.

Practical Application

Manasseh's remarkable story offers enduring hope and lessons for all:

• No one is beyond God's reach: Regardless of how far one has strayed or how grievous their sins, God's grace is sufficient for repentance and restoration.
• Humility is key to restoration: Manasseh's humbling himself in affliction was the catalyst for God's intervention. True humility opens the door to God's mercy.
• Prayer is powerful: Even a desperate cry from a place of brokenness can reach the heart of God and bring about miraculous change and restoration.
• Genuine repentance leads to transformation: Manasseh's changed heart was evidenced by his subsequent actions, including removing idols and repairing the altar of the Lord (2 Chronicles 33:15-16). True repentance leads to a changed life and a deeper relationship with God.