2 Chronicles 33:20 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 33:20 mean?

2 Chronicles 33:20 records the death of King Manasseh, stating that he "slept with his fathers," was buried in his own house, and that his son Amon became king after him. This verse marks the end of Manasseh’s reign and the transition of power to his son.

The Chronicler is summarizing the conclusion of Manasseh’s life and reign over Judah. The phrase "slept with his fathers" is a common way in the Old Testament to describe a king’s death, connecting Manasseh to the line of previous rulers. The mention of burial in his own house suggests he was buried in a family tomb or royal property, rather than the traditional tombs of the kings, which may hint at his unique or controversial legacy. The verse also introduces Amon as the next king, setting the stage for the following narrative.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 33:20

• "slept" (שָׁכַב, shakav): This word is often used in the Hebrew Bible to refer to death, especially of kings, and carries a sense of resting with ancestors, not just physical sleep.
• "fathers" (אָב, av): Refers to Manasseh’s ancestors, emphasizing continuity with previous generations of rulers.
• "buried" (קָבַר, qavar): Indicates a formal burial, which in this context highlights the respect given to Manasseh despite his earlier actions.
• "house" (בַּיִת, bayit): Here, "house" means Manasseh’s own property or family tomb, not the general tombs of the kings, which may suggest something distinctive about his burial.

Why 2 Chronicles 33:20 matters

• The verse clarifies that Manasseh, despite his troubled reign, was still given a burial with honor, though not in the usual royal tombs, which may reflect the mixed view of his legacy.
• It marks a clear transition in leadership, introducing Amon as the new king and preparing readers for the next phase in Judah’s history.
• The wording connects Manasseh to the broader tradition of Israelite kings, while also hinting at differences in how he was remembered and honored.