### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew name **ʻUzzîyâh**, represented by `{{H5818}}`, means **strength of Jah**. It appears **27 times** across **26 unique verses** in the Bible. While the name is given to five different Israelites, it most prominently refers to the long-reigning king of Judah.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The biblical narrative centers on **ʻUzzîyâh** as the king of Judah who began his rule at sixteen years old and reigned for fifty-two years in Jerusalem [[2 Chronicles 26:3]]. His reign was marked by military strength and significant building projects, including the construction of towers in Jerusalem [[2 Chronicles 26:9]]. He grew exceedingly strong, and his name spread as far as the entering in of Egypt [[2 Chronicles 26:8]]. His time as king was a significant historical marker, used to date the prophetic ministries of Isaiah [[Isaiah 1:1]], Hosea [[Hosea 1:1]], and Amos [[Amos 1:1]], as well as a memorable earthquake [[Zechariah 14:5]]. However, his story takes a tragic turn when he trespassed by entering the sanctuary to burn incense, an act reserved for the priests [[2 Chronicles 26:18]]. For this, he was struck with leprosy and remained a leper until the day of his death [[2 Chronicles 26:21]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are key to understanding the narrative of **ʻUzzîyâh**:
* `{{H4428}}` **melek** (a king): This title is consistently applied to Uzziah, defining his role and authority as the ruler of Judah ([[2 Kings 15:13]], [[2 Chronicles 26:18]]).
* `{{H4603}}` **mâʻal** (to act covertly, i.e. treacherously; transgress, (commit, do a) trespass(-ing)): This word describes the specific sin Uzziah committed when he unlawfully entered the sanctuary to burn incense [[2 Chronicles 26:18]].
* `{{H6883}}` **tsâraʻath** (leprosy): This was the divine judgment Uzziah received for his trespass, which rose up in his forehead in the house of the LORD [[2 Chronicles 26:19]].
### Theological Significance
The story of King **ʻUzzîyâh** carries significant theological weight, illustrating several core principles:
* **Pride and Transgression:** After becoming exceedingly strong, Uzziah's heart was lifted up to his destruction. He trespassed against the LORD his God by attempting to perform a priestly duty [[2 Chronicles 26:18]].
* **Divine Judgment:** The consequence for usurping holy authority was immediate and severe. Uzziah was struck with leprosy in the very act of his transgression and was cut off from the house of the LORD for the rest of his life [[2 Chronicles 26:21]].
* **Historical Marker:** The reign and death of Uzziah serve as a crucial timestamp in scripture. Most notably, the prophet Isaiah's profound vision of the Lord on His throne occurred "In the year that king Uzziah died" [[Isaiah 6:1]].
### Summary
In summary, **ʻUzzîyâh** `{{H5818}}` is a name that signifies "strength of Jah," yet it is primarily associated with a king whose life serves as a powerful lesson. King Uzziah's reign began with great success, military might, and prosperity. However, his story is a cautionary tale of how pride leads to transgression against God's holy commands, resulting in swift and lasting judgment. His life and death also frame a pivotal era in the prophetic history of Israel.
TRV