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2 Chronicles 33:1

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¶ Manasseh [was] twelve years old when he began to reign, and he reigned fifty and five years in Jerusalem:

Manasseh {H4519} was twelve {H8147}{H6240} years {H8141} old {H1121} when he began to reign {H4427}, and he reigned {H4427} fifty {H2572} and five {H2568} years {H8141} in Jerusalem {H3389}:

M'nasheh was twelve years old when he began his reign, and he ruled for fifty-five years in Yerushalayim.

Manasseh was twelve years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem fifty-five years.

Manasseh was twelve years old when he began to reign; and he reigned fifty and five years in Jerusalem.

Commentary

2 Chronicles 33:1 introduces King Manasseh, the son of the righteous King Hezekiah, marking a significant turning point in the history of the Southern Kingdom of Judah. This verse sets the stage for Manasseh's exceptionally long and, initially, notoriously wicked reign.

Context

This verse immediately follows the account of King Hezekiah's exemplary rule and spiritual reforms, as detailed in 2 Chronicles chapters 29-32. Manasseh's succession at such a young age—twelve years old—is notable, especially given that his father, Hezekiah, had been a strong advocate for monotheism and the worship of Yahweh. His reign of fifty-five years was the longest of any king in Judah or Israel, a period that allowed for deep entrenchment of idolatry and evil practices, which are vividly described in subsequent verses like 2 Chronicles 33:2-9. The setting is Jerusalem, the capital of Judah, highlighting the impact of his rule on the nation's spiritual heart.

Key Themes

  • Succession and Contrast: The immediate transition from a godly king like Hezekiah to a young, eventually wicked successor like Manasseh underscores the fragility of spiritual heritage and the personal responsibility of each generation.
  • Longevity of Rule: Manasseh's 55-year reign provided ample time for his policies to profoundly influence the nation, cementing his legacy as one of Judah's most oppressive and idolatrous kings, despite his later repentance and restoration.
  • Youthful Accession: Beginning his rule at a tender age suggests a period where influence from advisors or personal immaturity could play a role, though the Chronicles account emphasizes his deliberate choice to abandon the ways of his father.

Linguistic Insights

The name Manasseh (Hebrew: מְנַשֶּׁה, M'nasheh) means "causing to forget" or "one who forgets." This is ironically poignant, as his reign saw Judah "forget" the Lord and His commandments, falling into deep idolatry and spiritual decline.

Practical Application

This introductory verse reminds us that:

  • Influence of Leadership: Leaders, regardless of age, have a profound and lasting impact on those they govern. Manasseh's long reign illustrates how sustained leadership, whether good or bad, shapes a society.
  • Personal Responsibility: While Manasseh was young, his choices were his own. An upbringing in a righteous home does not guarantee personal righteousness; each individual must choose their path.
  • The Power of a Legacy: The shadow of Manasseh's wickedness lingered long after his reign, affecting future generations of Judah. This highlights the importance of building a positive spiritual legacy.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 2 Kings 21:1 (4 votes)

    ¶ Manasseh [was] twelve years old when he began to reign, and reigned fifty and five years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name [was] Hephzibah.

  • 2 Kings 21:18 (4 votes)

    And Manasseh slept with his fathers, and was buried in the garden of his own house, in the garden of Uzza: and Amon his son reigned in his stead.

  • 1 Chronicles 3:13 (3 votes)

    Ahaz his son, Hezekiah his son, Manasseh his son,

  • Isaiah 3:12 (2 votes)

    [As for] my people, children [are] their oppressors, and women rule over them. O my people, they which lead thee cause [thee] to err, and destroy the way of thy paths.

  • Isaiah 3:4 (2 votes)

    And I will give children [to be] their princes, and babes shall rule over them.

  • 2 Chronicles 32:33 (2 votes)

    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.

  • Matthew 1:10 (2 votes)

    And Ezekias begat Manasses; and Manasses begat Amon; and Amon begat Josias;