Book of 2 Kings - Chapter 16 - Verse 15

King Ahaz commanded Urijah the priest to specifically instruct the burning of the morning and evening offerings, the king's burnt sacrifice, the people's offerings, and drink offerings on the great altar, along with sprinkling all the blood of the burnt offering and sacrifice. The king reserved the brazen altar for himself to use for inquiries. This verse reflects the importance of ritual offerings and sacrifices in ancient religious practices. It demonstrates the meticulous attention to detail and adherence to specific instructions in carrying out these ceremonies, emphasizing the significance placed on pleasing the gods and seeking their favor through these offerings. Additionally, the king's reserved use of the brazen altar for inquiries suggests a belief in divination or seeking answers through spiritual means. Overall, this verse highlights the religious customs and beliefs of the time, providing insight into the ancient Israelites' worship practices.

King Ahaz's command to Urijah the priest in 2 Kings 16:15 holds theological significance as it demonstrates the king's desire to exert control over the religious practices of the people. By instructing Urijah to perform the morning and evening offerings, as well as the sacrifices on the great altar, Ahaz is asserting his authority over the priestly duties traditionally associated with worship. The mention of the king's own burnt sacrifice alongside those of the people underscores Ahaz's attempt to intertwine his political power with the sacred rituals of the Israelites. This blending of secular and religious authority can be seen as a distortion of the proper relationship between the king and the priestly class, as the king seeks to use religious ceremonies for his own purposes.