Uzziah

Uzziah, also known as Azariah, was a king of Judah who ruled for about 52 years in the 8th century BCE. He was the son of Amaziah and the father of Jotham. His reign is described in the Hebrew Bible, principally in 2 Chronicles 26, with a variant name in 2 Kings 14–15. The dates of his rule vary among scholars, but he is commonly dated to the mid-to-late 700s BCE.

During his early years, Uzziah consolidated power and expanded Judah’s territory. He strengthened fortifications and waterworks, built towers, and promoted agricultural and economic development. He raised and trained a sizeable army and is credited with strengthening Judah’s military capabilities, including the use of siege engines. His campaigns brought victories over neighboring peoples and enhanced Judah’s regional standing.

However, Uzziah’s reign ended in tragedy when he transgressed temple law by entering the sanctuary to burn incense on the altar, a duty reserved for priests. The priests confronted him, and he was afflicted with leprosy by the Lord, remaining a leper for the rest of his life. His son Jotham governed the people during his illness, and Uzziah continued to reign in a limited capacity until his death. He was buried in the city of David.

Legacy: Uzziah’s reign is often seen as a high point of strength and prosperity for Judah before a subsequent downturn. The narrative emphasizes themes of divine blessing followed by divine discipline and serves as a cautionary tale about pride and overstepping religious boundaries.