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Prayer of Manasseh
Dating
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Setting is during Manasseh's imprisonment in Babylon and his repentance
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Reference point: Takes place during the events of 2 Chronicles 33
Signifcance
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Models true repentance
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Demonstrates YHWH's mercy
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Shows power of sincere prayer
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Exemplifies covenant faithfulness
Discovery
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Found in Septuagint manuscripts
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Damascus Document references
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Apostolic Constitutions (Book 2)
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Eastern church manuscripts
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Early Hebrew prayer collections
Transmission
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Through Hebrew prayer traditions
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Via Greek Orthodox usage
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Eastern church preservation
Language / Translation
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Original language: Hebrew (likely)
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Greek versions common
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Ancient versions: Syriac, Latin
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Multiple manuscript traditions
Genre
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Royal supplication
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Liturgical text
Content
The text presents a powerful prayer of repentance attributed to King Manasseh of Judah during his Babylonian captivity. It expresses deep remorse for idolatry and violation of Torah, acknowledging YHWH's righteousness and mercy. The prayer demonstrates the path of true teshuvah (repentance), showing how even the most wayward can return to YHWH through sincere confession and submission to His authority. It particularly emphasizes YHWH's attributes of mercy and forgiveness while maintaining His justice, serving as a model for all who seek restoration after transgressing Torah.
Commentary
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