Ahaz
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Ahaz in the Bible?
Ahaz ascended to the throne of Judah at age 20 following the death of his father Jotham and reigned for 16 years. His rule is characterized by political alliances with Assyria to counter threats from Israel and Aram, as well as the introduction of foreign religious customs and altar designs into the Jerusalem Temple.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Ahaz's reign clarifies the historical context of the Syro-Ephraimite War and the prophetic narratives in Isaiah, illustrating the tension between political pragmatism and religious fidelity in the biblical account of Judah's monarchy.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Ahaz in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Ahaz clarify?
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Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.