Summary
At sixteen, Uzziah ascended to the throne of Judah, succeeding Amaziah. He enjoyed a fifty‑two year reign marked by military victories over the Philistines and other neighbors, and he strengthened Jerusalem with towers, walls, wells, and a large army. He also undertook extensive construction projects throughout the kingdom. However, his pride led him to enter the temple and burn incense, an act reserved for priests. The priests rebuked him, and he was struck with leprosy, which forced him to live in a separate house until his death. His son Jotham succeeded him, and Isaiah recorded the remaining acts of his life. Uzziah’s story illustrates the danger of pride and the importance of respecting divine ordinances.