2 Chronicles 33:14

KJV

Now after this he built a wall without the city of David, on the west side of Gihon, in the valley, even to the entering in at the fish gate, and compassed about Ophel, and raised it up a very great height, and put captains of war in all the fenced cities of Judah.

KJV (with Strong's)

Now after this {H310} he built {H1129} a wall {H2346} without {H2435} the city {H5892} of David {H1732}, on the west side {H4628} of Gihon {H1521}, in the valley {H5158}, even to the entering in {H935} at the fish {H1709} gate {H8179}, and compassed {H5437} about Ophel {H6077}, and raised it up {H1361} a very great height {H3966}, and put {H7760} captains {H8269} of war {H2428} in all the fenced {H1219} cities {H5892} of Judah {H3063}.

Complete Jewish Bible

After this he built an outer wall for the City of David on the west side of Gichon, in the valley, extending as far as the entrance at the Fish Gate; it encompassed the 'Ofel, and he built it very high. He stationed army commanders in all the fortified cities of Y'hudah.

Berean Standard Bible

After this, Manasseh rebuilt the outer wall of the City of David from west of Gihon in the valley to the entrance of the Fish Gate, and he brought it around the hill of Ophel and heightened it considerably. He also stationed military commanders in all the fortified cities of Judah.

American Standard Version

Now after this he built an outer wall to the city of David, on the west side of Gihon, in the valley, even to the entrance at the fish gate; and he compassed Ophel about with it, and raised it up to a very great height: and he put valiant captains in all the fortified cities of Judah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
This verse details King Manasseh's extensive building and defense initiatives in Jerusalem and throughout Judah, undertaken "after this"—a crucial phrase referring to his dramatic repentance and restoration by God. These actions, including the construction of a new wall, the fortification of Ophel, and the strategic placement of military captains, serve as tangible evidence of his transformed heart and renewed commitment to responsible, righteous leadership, starkly contrasting his earlier destructive reign of idolatry and wickedness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** The phrase "Now after this" in [2 Chronicles 33:14](/2_chronicles/33-14 "2 Chronicles 33:14 - Manasseh's Building Projects") is pivotal, directly linking Manasseh's constructive actions to the preceding narrative of his life. The earlier verses of [2 Chronicles 33](/2_chronicles/33 "2 Chronicles 33 - Manasseh's Reign") meticulously chronicle Manasseh's unparalleled wickedness, describing his promotion of idolatry, child sacrifice, and the desecration of the Temple in Jerusalem, making him one of Judah's most egregious kings ([2 Chronicles 33:1-9](/2_chronicles/33-1 "2 Chronicles 33:1 - Manasseh's Wicked Reign") to [2 Chronicles 33:9](/2_chronicles/33-9 "2 Chronicles 33:9 - Manasseh's Idolatry")). However, the narrative takes a dramatic turn when Manasseh is captured by the Assyrians, humbled in distress, and fervently prays to the Lord. God, in His boundless mercy, hears his plea and restores him to his throne in Jerusalem ([2 Chronicles 33:11-13](/2_chronicles/33-11 "2 Chronicles 33:11 - Manasseh's Capture and Repentance")). Verse 14, therefore, is not merely a description of building projects but a profound theological statement: it marks a tangible demonstration of his genuine repentance and a commitment to responsible, righteous leadership, contrasting sharply with his earlier destructive actions and illustrating the fruit of a transformed heart.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Manasseh reigned during a period when Judah was a vassal state under the dominant Assyrian Empire. His initial pro-Assyrian policies included adopting their idolatrous practices, which weakened Judah spiritually and potentially militarily. In the ancient Near East, the strength and security of a city-state were directly tied to its fortifications. Walls were not merely defensive structures but symbols of national strength and stability. Jerusalem, with its vital Gihon spring, was a prime target during sieges, making its water supply and defensive perimeter critical. The Ophel, a fortified ridge south of the Temple Mount, was a strategically important area for the city's defense. Manasseh's actions in [2 Chronicles 33:14](/2_chronicles/33-14 "2 Chronicles 33:14 - Manasseh's Post-Repentance Actions") reflect a king who, having experienced the consequences of vulnerability (his own capture), now prioritized the physical defense and well-being of his kingdom, aligning with the expected duties of a responsible monarch in a volatile geopolitical landscape.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully illustrates several key themes. Foremost is the theme of **Repentance and Restoration**, demonstrating that genuine repentance leads to tangible, constructive actions. Manasseh's extensive building projects and military preparations are clear evidence of a transformed heart, showing a king who, having experienced divine grace, now seeks to serve his people and secure his kingdom, reversing the spiritual and physical decay caused by his previous reign. This highlights God's willingness to restore even those who have fallen deeply into sin, as seen in [Psalm 103:12](/psalm/103-12 "Psalm 103:12 - God Removes Our Transgressions"). Another significant theme is **Security and Preparedness**. The focus on constructing a new wall, fortifying Ophel, and strategically placing "captains of war" in Judah's cities underscores Manasseh's commitment to the physical defense and well-being of his kingdom. Finally, the passage emphasizes **Responsible Leadership**. Following his repentance, Manasseh actively takes on the duties of a good king, working to strengthen his nation. This demonstrates that true repentance often leads to practical, positive actions that benefit others and restore order, contrasting his earlier destructive leadership and setting a new course for his reign.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Built (Hebrew, _bânâh'_):** This verb signifies not just physical construction but also establishment, rebuilding, or even founding. In Manasseh's context, it carries profound irony and significance. Having previously torn down altars to Yahweh and built altars to pagan gods ([2 Chronicles 33:3](/2_chronicles/33-3 "2 Chronicles 33:3 - Manasseh's Idolatry")), his act of "building" a defensive wall now symbolizes a reversal of his destructive past and a commitment to constructive, protective leadership for his people.
* **Compassed about (Hebrew, _sâbab'_):** This word conveys the idea of surrounding, enclosing, or encircling. When applied to Ophel, it implies a comprehensive and secure fortification, ensuring that this critical defensive area was thoroughly protected. It speaks to a strategic and thorough approach to security, leaving no part vulnerable.
* **Raised it up (Hebrew, _gâbah'_):** This term denotes elevation, making something high or exalted. The phrase "raised it up a very great height" emphasizes the formidable nature of the new wall and the fortifications around Ophel. It suggests a significant investment of resources and labor to create a truly imposing and effective defensive structure, signaling strength and preparedness.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now after this he built a wall without the city of David":** This opening clause is crucial, establishing the chronological and theological link to Manasseh's repentance and restoration. "After this" refers to his humbling experience, prayer, and God's gracious response in [2 Chronicles 33:11-13](/2_chronicles/33-11 "2 Chronicles 33:11 - Manasseh's Repentance"). The building of a wall "without" (outside) the existing "city of David" (the ancient core of Jerusalem) indicates an expansion and strengthening of the city's defenses, signifying a practical manifestation of his transformed priorities from spiritual decay to national security.
* **"on the west side of Gihon, in the valley, even to the entering in at the fish gate":** This provides precise geographical details, delineating the extent of the new wall. The Gihon spring, located in the Kidron Valley to the east, was Jerusalem's primary water source and a critical point of vulnerability during sieges. Building on the "west side of Gihon" implies an effort to better protect this vital resource. The "fish gate," likely on the northern side of the city (as seen in [Nehemiah 3:3](/nehemiah/3-3 "Nehemiah 3:3 - The Fish Gate in Nehemiah")), helps to define the northern reach of Manasseh's extensive new fortifications, indicating a significant expansion of the city's defensive perimeter.
* **"and compassed about Ophel, and raised it up a very great height":** Ophel was a fortified ridge extending south from the Temple Mount, a key defensive position. To "compass about" Ophel means to enclose it with a wall, and to "raise it up a very great height" signifies a substantial and formidable fortification. This action demonstrates a strategic understanding of Jerusalem's vulnerabilities and a determined effort to make its defenses as robust as possible, reinforcing a critical part of the city's stronghold.
* **"and put captains of war in all the fenced cities of Judah":** This final clause shows that Manasseh's defensive efforts were not limited to Jerusalem but extended throughout the kingdom. Placing "captains of war" (military commanders) in "all the fenced cities" (fortified cities) of Judah indicates a comprehensive national security strategy. This was a proactive measure to ensure military readiness and protection across the land, reflecting a king who was now diligently fulfilling his duty to protect his people and territory from external threats, a stark contrast to his earlier neglect of national welfare.

#### Literary Devices
The passage in [2 Chronicles 33:14](/2_chronicles/33-14 "2 Chronicles 33:14 - Manasseh's Transformation in Action") effectively employs several literary devices to convey its message. **Contrast** is paramount, highlighting the stark difference between Manasseh's earlier reign of spiritual and physical destruction ([2 Chronicles 33:1-9](/2_chronicles/33-1 "2 Chronicles 33:1 - Manasseh's Wickedness")) and his post-repentance actions of building and fortifying. This contrast underscores the transformative power of God's grace and genuine repentance. The specific geographical details—"west side of Gihon," "fish gate," and "Ophel"—function as **Specificity** and **Verisimilitude**, lending credibility and a sense of historical reality to the account. These precise locations emphasize the tangible and extensive nature of Manasseh's efforts, making his transformation concrete. Furthermore, the "wall," "Ophel," and "captains of war" serve as **Metonymy** or **Synecdoche**, representing Manasseh's broader commitment to national security, responsible governance, and the rebuilding of a kingdom he had previously undermined. The emphasis on "very great height" for the wall also employs **Hyperbole** to underscore the impressive scale and formidable nature of these defensive works.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Manasseh's story, culminating in the actions of [2 Chronicles 33:14](/2_chronicles/33-14 "2 Chronicles 33:14 - Manasseh's Redeemed Leadership"), offers a profound theological lesson: genuine repentance is not merely an internal change of heart but manifests in tangible, outward actions that align with God's will and benefit others. His building of walls and fortification of cities, a reversal of his earlier destructive spiritual policies, serves as a powerful illustration of "fruit in keeping with repentance" ([Luke 3:8](/luke/3-8 "Luke 3:8 - Bear Fruit in Keeping with Repentance")). It demonstrates that God's grace is so immense that even the most wicked sinner can be transformed and used for constructive purposes. This narrative offers hope that no one is beyond the reach of divine mercy and that true spiritual renewal leads to practical obedience and responsible stewardship of one's sphere of influence.

* [Psalm 51:10](/psalm/51-10 "A Clean Heart")
* [Isaiah 1:18](/isaiah/1-18 "Sins Washed White")
* [Matthew 3:8](/matthew/3-8 "Fruit of Repentance")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Manasseh's remarkable transformation, from a king who actively dismantled the spiritual and physical well-being of his nation to one who diligently built up its defenses, provides a powerful and enduring message for believers today. His story reminds us that God's capacity for forgiveness and restoration knows no bounds, regardless of the depth or duration of past sin. It challenges us to consider that true repentance is never passive; it is an active turning from destructive patterns and an intentional engagement in constructive, God-honoring actions. Just as Manasseh rebuilt walls, we are called to rebuild trust, mend relationships, or contribute positively to our communities after periods of spiritual wandering or personal failure. This verse encourages us to look for tangible ways to demonstrate our faith and to use our renewed purpose to fortify our spiritual lives and contribute to the well-being of those around us, recognizing that God can use anyone, even those with the darkest pasts, for His redemptive purposes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you need to demonstrate tangible "building" or "rebuilding" as evidence of repentance or spiritual growth?**
* **How does Manasseh's story encourage you about God's capacity for forgiveness and restoration, even for the most grievous sins?**
* **What practical steps can you take to "fortify" your spiritual life against future temptations or backsliding, much like Manasseh fortified Jerusalem?**

### FAQ
**What was the significance of Manasseh's building projects after his repentance?**

Answer: Manasseh's building projects, detailed in [2 Chronicles 33:14](/2_chronicles/33-14 "2 Chronicles 33:14 - Manasseh's Post-Repentance Actions"), were profoundly significant as a tangible, public demonstration of his transformed heart. Prior to his repentance, Manasseh had actively engaged in destructive spiritual practices, building pagan altars and desecrating the Temple ([2 Chronicles 33:3-7](/2_chronicles/33-3 "2 Chronicles 33:3 - Manasseh's Idolatry") to [2 Chronicles 33:7](/2_chronicles/33-7 "2 Chronicles 33:7 - Manasseh Desecrates the Temple")). His subsequent act of building defensive walls and fortifying cities was a complete reversal, symbolizing his commitment to constructive, responsible leadership and the well-being of his kingdom. It showcased the "fruit in keeping with repentance," where a change of heart leads to a change in actions, demonstrating that God's grace enables individuals to move from destruction to restoration.

**Why did Manasseh focus so heavily on military fortifications?**

Answer: Manasseh's intense focus on military fortifications, including the new wall, the strengthening of Ophel, and the placement of "captains of war" in Judah's cities, stemmed from both practical necessity and his personal experience. Having been captured by the Assyrians himself ([2 Chronicles 33:11](/2_chronicles/33-11 "2 Chronicles 33:11 - Manasseh's Capture")), he had a firsthand understanding of Judah's vulnerability to external threats. His actions reflect a king who, having been humbled and restored, was now diligently fulfilling his duty to protect his people and territory. In the ancient world, strong city defenses were crucial for survival and national stability. Therefore, his efforts were a responsible and strategic response to the geopolitical realities of his time, ensuring the security of Jerusalem and the broader kingdom of Judah.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Manasseh's dramatic transformation from a king of unparalleled wickedness to one who actively builds and fortifies his kingdom, as seen in [2 Chronicles 33:14](/2_chronicles/33-14 "2 Chronicles 33:14 - Manasseh's Redeemed Actions"), serves as a powerful Old Testament foreshadowing of the ultimate redemptive and transformative work of Jesus Christ. While Manasseh's repentance led him to build physical walls for the security of an earthly kingdom, Christ came to build an eternal, spiritual kingdom and a new humanity. Manasseh's restoration, though profound, was still imperfect and temporary, limited by his human nature and the constraints of the Old Covenant. The true and lasting transformation, the complete forgiveness of sins, and the empowerment for new life come solely through Christ's atoning sacrifice on the cross. He is the ultimate "builder" of His church ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - Christ Builds His Church")), establishing a kingdom that needs no physical walls for defense, for its security rests in His sovereign power and eternal reign ([Hebrews 12:28](/hebrews/12-28 "Hebrews 12:28 - An Unshakable Kingdom")). Through His Spirit, Christ enables us to tear down spiritual strongholds of sin and build lives of righteousness and obedience ([2 Corinthians 10:4-5](/2_corinthians/10-4 "2 Corinthians 10:4-5 - Tearing Down Strongholds")), making us living stones in His spiritual temple ([1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones")), a far greater and more enduring work than any earthly fortification.

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

2 Chronicles 27:3

He built the high gate of the house of the LORD, and on the wall of Ophel he built much.

Nehemiah 3:3

But the fish gate did the sons of Hassenaah build, who [also] laid the beams thereof, and set up the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof.

1 Kings 1:33

The king also said unto them, Take with you the servants of your lord, and cause Solomon my son to ride upon mine own mule, and bring him down to Gihon:

Zephaniah 1:10

And it shall come to pass in that day, saith the LORD, [that there shall be] the noise of a cry from the fish gate, and an howling from the second, and a great crashing from the hills.

Nehemiah 12:39

And from above the gate of Ephraim, and above the old gate, and above the fish gate, and the tower of Hananeel, and the tower of Meah, even unto the sheep gate: and they stood still in the prison gate.

2 Chronicles 32:5

Also he strengthened himself, and built up all the wall that was broken, and raised [it] up to the towers, and another wall without, and repaired Millo [in] the city of David, and made darts and shields in abundance.

2 Chronicles 17:19

These waited on the king, beside [those] whom the king put in the fenced cities throughout all Judah.