2 Chronicles 33:9
So Manasseh made Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem to err, and to do worse than the heathen, whom the LORD had destroyed before the children of Israel. So Manasseh made Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem to err, and to do worse than the heathen, whom the LORD had destroyed before the children of Israel.
Manasseh made Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem to err into idolatry that was worse than that of the heathen nations whom the Lord had destroyed before Israel. His wicked reign revived paganism, bringing its return to the land and leading many of the people into idol worship. Under his rule tyranny, oppression, hatred of good, injustice and violence flourished.
He led the people astray by setting aside the statutes given through Moses. During his reign the temple copy of the law was neglected and lost, leaving the people without its instruction for many years. Manasseh and his people heard God's warnings but refused to listen and heed them, for Manasseh heard God's word but did not heed it.
God disciplined the unheeding people with affliction, after which Manasseh humbled himself, prayed and was restored. This shows God's long patience with a backsliding people before punishment comes. The verse illustrates the great harm that a leader's influence can do to those under him. His example of disregarding God's instruction warns those entrusted with responsibility in God's work not to do the same.