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Book of 2 Chronicles - Chapter 33 - Verse 3

33:3
For he built again the high places which Hezekiah his father had broken down, and he reared up altars for Baalim, and made groves, and worshipped all the host of heaven, and served them.

Meaning

This verse from 2 Kings 21:3 describes King Manasseh's actions after he became king of Judah. Manasseh's father, King Hezekiah, had worked diligently to remove idolatry from the land by destroying high places and altars dedicated to false gods. However, upon assuming the throne, Manasseh undid his father's efforts by rebuilding these high places and erecting altars for the worship of Baal, a Canaanite deity associated with fertility and agriculture. In addition to worshipping Baal, Manasseh also set up groves for idolatrous practices and worshipped the sun, moon, and stars, which were all part of the host of heaven. This verse serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of turning away from the one true God and being tempted by the allure of false gods and idolatry. It highlights the importance of remaining steadfast in faith and not being swayed by the customs and beliefs of the surrounding culture.

Theological Overview

This verse from 2 Kings 21:3 describes the actions of King Manasseh, who succeeded his father Hezekiah as king of Judah. The verse reveals how Manasseh rebuilt the high places and altars that Hezekiah had previously torn down in his efforts to eradicate idolatry in the land. By reinstating the worship of foreign gods like Baalim and setting up groves for pagan rituals, Manasseh demonstrates a blatant disregard for the commandments of God. His decision to worship the host of heaven, which refers to celestial bodies like stars and planets, further emphasizes his departure from the true faith. Through these actions, Manasseh not only rejects the teachings of God but also leads the people of Judah astray, promoting practices that are contrary to the will of the Lord. This verse serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of idolatry and the consequences of straying from God's commandments.

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