This verse points to the historical record-keeping of the ancient kingdom of Judah, specifically regarding King Manasseh's reign. Manasseh is known for his long rule and for leading Judah into practices that were considered sinful, such as idolatry and other actions contrary to the worship of Yahweh. The verse implies that the details of his reign, including his misdeeds, were significant enough to be documented in the annals of the kings of Judah, a separate historical record. This highlights the importance of historical documentation in preserving the lessons of the past, both good and bad. Manasseh's reign serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of turning away from divine commandments and the impact such leadership can have on a nation. The verse encourages reflection on the importance of aligning leadership with moral and spiritual values, reminding readers of the enduring influence of historical actions on future generations.
The reference to the annals also underscores the practice of keeping detailed records, which was common in ancient times, providing a broader context for understanding the biblical narrative and its historical setting.