MPV Commentary

19-20. Amaziah's apostasy and poor leadership led to widespread discontent among his subjects. The disastrous war with Israel had resulted in the plunder of Jerusalem's temple and the loss of many children taken as hostages (2Ki 14:13-14). As a result, the king lost the respect and loyalty not only of the nobles but also of the common people, who rose up against him.

The king fled to Lachish, a Philistine town on the border, in terror. However, he was tracked down and murdered there. His friends brought his body back to Jerusalem without ceremony or pomp, burying it among his royal ancestors.

21-22. Azariah (also known as Uzziah) succeeded Amaziah as king of Judah. The people's opposition had been directed against Amaziah personally, but they did not extend their rebellion to his family or heir.

Azariah went on to rebuild the fortified seaport city of Elath, which had revolted along with Edom but was now recovered by him. His father, who had not completed the conquest of Edom, left this task for Azariah to accomplish.