2 Chronicles 26

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2 Chronicles 26 tells the story of King Uzziah of Judah. The book was written by an unknown author focusing on Judah’s history until the Babylonian conquest, and this chapter is part of the section about Uzziah’s reign.

At the beginning of his rule, Uzziah sought God and God helped him succeed. He strengthened Judah’s army, built up defenses, towers, and cisterns, and organized cities and public works. His campaigns brought victories against surrounding peoples, and his fame even reached Egypt. He also produced military equipment and gave the army strong leadership.

Later, however, Uzziah grew proud. He entered the temple to burn incense on the altar—an action only priests were allowed to perform. The priests confronted him, and in his anger he was struck with leprosy. He had to live in a separate house, and his son Jotham ruled as regent in his place. Uzziah’s illness ended his active leadership, though the kingdom continued under Jotham.

The chapter highlights both Uzziah’s significant reforms and building projects, and the downfall that came from pride.