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Asa

Biblical
Pronunciation

Understanding ARPABET Pronunciation

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The pronunciation guide uses the ARPABET phonetic system—the same system used in speech recognition and text-to-speech applications.

Vowel Examples:
AE1 = cat, bat
EH1 = bed, head
IY1 = see, me
OW1 = go, boat
UW1 = boot, do
Stress Numbers:
0 = no stress (unstressed)
1 = primary stress (loud)
2 = secondary stress (medium)
Example:
AH0 TH IY1 N AH0
= a-THEE-na (Athena)

The stressed syllable (marked with 1) is pronounced louder and clearer than others.

Quick Definition

King of Judah praised in Chronicles for removing idols and restoring worship of Yahweh, though later reliant on foreign aid.

Detailed Definition
Asa removed idols, fortified cities, and trusted God against Ethiopian invasion. Though later reliant on foreign aid, his early faith defined his legacy. In poetry, Asa symbolizes renewal, the courage to purge corruption, and the challenges of sustaining devotion amid political pressure.
Example
Example in poetry:
In John Milton’s "Paradise Lost," Asa’s reforms (1 Kings 15) illustrate the possibility of national renewal; In William Cowper’s hymns, Asa’s reliance on God in war (2 Chronicles 14) models trust; In Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s "The Drama of Exile," Asa symbolizes the struggle for purity; In George Herbert’s "The Church-porch," Asa’s later failure warns against self-reliance; In John Keble’s "The Christian Year," Asa’s reign becomes a pattern of faith and faltering; In Christina Rossetti’s devotional verse, Asa’s heart “perfect with the Lord” inspires wholehearted devotion.
Additional Notes
Asa: King of Judah praised for removing idols and relying on God (1 Kings 15; 2 Chronicles 14–16). His early faith contrasts with later reliance on Syria instead of God. In poetry, Asa illustrates the tension between initial zeal and later compromise. His prayer in battle (2 Chron 14:11) is a model of dependence; his foot disease (2 Chron 16:12) a warning against pride. Useful for exploring spiritual consistency.
Also Known As
Asa king of Judah Asa son of Abijah
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