🌿 Introduction
“O Lord Almighty, God of our fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and of their righteous seed…”
The Prayer of Manasses is a brief yet powerful plea for mercy, attributed to King Manasseh of Judah during his imprisonment in Babylon (2 Chronicles 33:10–13). Though found in the Apocrypha, this poetic confession captures one of the most moving acts of repentance in ancient Scripture.
This single-chapter book reveals the raw heart of a king who once defied God, but in desperation, returned in humility and begged for forgiveness. Manasseh, known for his wickedness, idol worship, and bloodshed, was taken captive—and it was there, in chains, that he remembered the Lord. His prayer is filled with sorrow, reverence, and hope, showing how even the most fallen can be restored by God’s grace.
This book reminds readers that God’s mercy has no limits. Whether you’re on a mountaintop or in the valley, your heart’s cry can reach heaven.
📜 Structure of Prayer of Manasses
Since this is a single-chapter book, it flows as one complete movement:
- Verses 1–8: Glorification of God’s mercy, power, and eternity
- Verses 9–15: Deep personal confession, plea for mercy, and commitment to return to God
Each verse moves from awe and reverence to deep repentance and surrender.
💡 Key Themes
- Repentance – A heartfelt return to the Lord
- Mercy of God – God’s nature to forgive the truly penitent
- Humility – The power of lowering oneself before the Almighty
- Restoration – Even the most wicked can be redeemed
👑 Key People to Watch For
- Manasseh – Once a corrupt king, now a humbled servant in chains. His transformation is a testimony of God’s unending grace.
🔥 Why This Book Still Matters
The Prayer of Manasses still echoes through the hearts of those who’ve strayed far and seek a way back. In a world where shame and regret try to chain the soul, this book offers a key: humility and repentance open the door to divine restoration.
It reminds us of Psalm 51:17—“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.”
And it points us to Christ, through whom we have eternal access to the Father’s mercy.