7. He set also an idol of the grove, which he had made, in the temple of the Lord: concerning which the Lord said to David, and to Solomon his son: In this temple, and in Jerusalem, which I have chosen out of all the tribes of Israel, I will put my name for ever.
Chapter 21 of 2 kings describes the reign of King Manasseh, who was one of the worst kings of Judah. He practiced idolatry and did bad things in the eyes of the Lord, leading Judah to sin. Manasseh also built pagan altars inside the temple in Jerusalem and even sacrificed his own son in one of these altars. Below are five verses from other Bible books that relate to the topics addressed in 2 Kings 21:
Deuteronomy 18:10-12: "It will not be found among you who makes fire to your son or daughter, neither guessor, nor prognizing, nor a sorcerer; nor charming, nor who to consult a guessor spirit, nor magic nor who to consult the dead; for everyone who does these things is abominable to the Lord. " This verse highlights the prohibition of pagan and superstitious practices, such as sacrificing children, consulting grounds or doing witchcraft, which were committed by King Manasseh.
2 Chronicles 33:11-13: "From what the Lord brought upon them the chiefs of the Army of the King of Assyria, who arrested Manasseh with hooks, and tied him with bronze chains, and took him to Babylon. He in anguish, begged his God to the Lord, and humid Himself very much before the God of his parents; and he addressed his prayers, and the Lord has placated with Him, and heard his supplication, and brought him again to Jerusalem, to his kingdom. " This verse describes the punishment that God sent upon Manasseh for His sins, but also highlights the mercy and forgiveness of God when the king repented and cried to him.
Proverbs 22:6: "Instructs the boy on the way he should walk, and even when he gets old, he will not deviate from him." This verse highlights the importance of children's education and formation in the faith and in the right values from an early age, something that Manasseh has failed to sacrifice his own son and allow idolatry in Judah.
Exodus 34:14: "For thou shalt not lean before another God; for the Lord, whose name is zealous, is the zealous God." This verse highlights the exclusivity of the worship of the true God, and the prohibition of worshiping other gods, something that Manasseh violated by adopting idolatry.
Isaiah 55:7: "Leave the wicked to his way, and the evil man his thoughts, and convert to the Lord, to be sympathized with him; and return to our God, for he is rich in forgiving." This verse highlights the possibility of repentance and conversion, something that King Manasseh has not done in 2 kings 21. The message is clear: even those who are considered wicked or evil can turn to God and be forgiven.
“Comunguemos com santo temor e com grande amor.” São Padre Pio de Pietrelcina
