Book of 2 Kings - Chapter 21 - Verse 3

During the reign of King Manasseh, he reintroduced pagan practices that his father Hezekiah had abolished. Manasseh rebuilt the high places that had been destroyed and erected altars for the worship of Baal, following in the footsteps of Ahab, the king of Israel. He also established a grove, a sacred space for idol worship. Manasseh's actions demonstrate a departure from the true worship of God and a turning to the worship of false gods, such as the host of heaven. By engaging in these practices, Manasseh led the people of Judah away from the Lord and into idolatry. This period of idol worship and disobedience to God marked a dark time in the history of Judah, as they turned their backs on the covenant relationship with the one true God.

In this verse from 2 Chronicles, the actions of Manasseh, the son of King Hezekiah, are detailed. Manasseh is described as rebuilding the high places that his father had torn down, setting up altars for the pagan god Baal, and constructing a grove for worship. This behavior is likened to that of Ahab, a notorious king of Israel who led his people into idolatry. The mention of worshiping the host of heaven refers to the practice of engaging in astrological or celestial worship, disregarding the true worship of God. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the consequences of turning away from the one true God and indulging in idolatry. It serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of deviating from the path of righteousness and following after false gods. Through Manasseh's actions, we are reminded of the importance of remaining faithful to God and rejecting all forms of idol worship.