Asa (אָסָא) is a proper name, most prominently borne by the third king of Judah, son of Abijam. The name may mean "healer" or possibly derive from a root meaning "to remove" or "to heal." Asa reigned for 41 years (c. 911–870 BC) and is remembered as one of Judah's reforming kings who removed foreign altars and idols.
King Asa is a figure of covenantal renewal and moral courage. He removed the Asherah poles, expelled male shrine prostitutes, and even deposed his grandmother Maacah for her idolatry (1 Kings 15:12–13). His prayer in 2 Chronicles 14:11 is a model of dependence on God: "LORD, there is no one like you to help the powerless against the mighty. Help us, LORD our God, for we rely on you." However, Asa's later failure — seeking Aramean help rather than trusting God — warns against a faith that grows cold with prosperity.