2 Kings 21 recounts the reign of Manasseh, who becomes king of Judah at the age of 12 and rules for 55 years in Jerusalem. Unfortunately, his actions are described as exceedingly wicked, following the abominations of the surrounding nations. Manasseh rebuilds the high places that his father Hezekiah had destroyed, erects altars to false gods, and even sets up an idol in the house of the Lord. He practices divination, witchcraft, and consults with familiar spirits, leading the people of Judah astray.
As a result of Manasseh's wickedness, the Lord declares that He will bring great calamity upon Jerusalem and Judah. The people of Judah are warned that they will become a byword among the nations due to their disobedience. Manasseh's actions and the sins of Judah during his reign are said to exceed even the wickedness of the nations that were driven out before the Israelites.