Question 1

What does 2 Kings 21:1 mean?

Accepted Answer

2 Kings 21:1 states that Manasseh became king of Judah at the age of twelve and ruled in Jerusalem for fifty-five years. The verse also tells us the name of his mother, Hephzibah. This verse introduces Manasseh as a young king and notes his unusually long reign, which is significant in the history of Judah. The mention of his mother, Hephzibah, is typical for the books of Kings, where the mother’s name is often given for each king, possibly to clarify royal lineage or influence. This sets the stage for the following account of Manasseh’s actions as king.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 2 Kings 21:1

Accepted Answer

מְנַשֶּׁה (Menashsheh, "Manasseh"): This is the king’s name, which can mean "causing to forget" or "making to forget." The name itself may hint at themes of memory or legacy in his reign. חֵפְצִי־בָּהּ (Hephzibah, "Hephzibah"): The mother’s name means "my delight is in her." Including her name may suggest her importance or status in the royal family. חָמֵשׁ וְחָמֵשׁ שָׁנָה (chamishim v’chamesh shanah, "fifty and five years"): The Hebrew construction stresses the length of Manasseh’s reign, which stands out as the longest of any king in Judah’s history.

Question 3

Why 2 Kings 21:1 matters

Accepted Answer

The verse highlights Manasseh’s young age and long reign, which frame the coming narrative about his influence—both positive and negative—on Judah. Naming Hephzibah as Manasseh’s mother may hint at her significance or at the importance of maternal lineage in royal succession. This introduction marks a turning point in the history of Judah, as Manasseh’s reign is often remembered for significant religious and political changes that shaped the nation’s future.

2 Kings 21:1 (KJV)