Histories of the Holy Land Podcast
The Histories of the Holy Land Podcast has the guts to survey the most provocative historical narrative in the world. Israel and Palestine is a land of immense religious significance. Everyone has an opinion on it. But what is the true story of this beautiful but contested country? From the dinosaurs to the hi-tech era, we will chronologically survey the history of the land. The podcast will provide the only complete and factual narrative out there. So, join us.
Histories of the Holy Land Podcast
53 - The Story of Manasseh: The Evil King Who Saved Judah
History remembers King Manasseh as Judah's most wicked ruler, but archaeological evidence tells a different story. For 55 years, he kept his tiny kingdom alive through shrewd diplomacy and careful governance, transforming defeat into survival. While his father Hezekiah's rebellion against Assyria had devastated the kingdom, Manasseh took a pragmatic approach - restoring local shrines, rebuilding trade networks, and turning Judah into a valuable buffer state between Assyria and Egypt. Under his reign, settlements expanded south, new fortifications secured vital trade routes, and agricultural innovation helped feed a growing population. His story isn't one of wickedness, but of a masterful survivor who made difficult choices to keep his kingdom alive during one of the most dangerous periods in ancient history.