UZZIAH

also spelled Ozias, also called Azariah, or Azarias, in the Old Testament (2 Chronicles 26), son and successor of Amaziah, and king of Judah for 52 years (c. 791739 BC). Assyrian records indicate that Uzziah reigned for 42 years (c. 783742). His reign marked the height of Judah's power. He fought successfully against other nations and exacted tribute from the Ammonites. Judah expanded westward with settlements in Philistia. During the period of Uzziah's reign, the nation prospered, and desert areas were reclaimed by water conservation. Jerusalem's walls were reconstructed, towers were added, and engines of war were mounted at strategic points. A large army was also maintained. The nation's prosperity under Uzziah was considered to have been a result of the king's fidelity to Yahweh. According to the biblical record, Uzziah's strength caused him to become proud, which led to his destruction. He attempted to burn incense in the Temple, an act restricted to priests. When the priests attempted to send him from the Temple, the king became angry and was immediately stricken with leprosy. His son Jotham ruled for his father until Uzziah died.