Who was King Josiah in the Bible?

King Josiah was one of the most remarkable and righteous kings of Judah, reigning from approximately 640 to 609 B.C. His reign is chronicled primarily in 2 Kings 22-23 and 2 Chronicles 34-35. Despite inheriting a kingdom steeped in idolatry and wickedness, this king demonstrated a steadfast commitment to restoring the worship of the true God. His life and reforms left a profound impact on the history of Judah.

Josiah’s Background and Early Reign

Josiah was the son of King Amon and the grandson of King Manasseh. His grandfather, Manasseh, had introduced extensive idolatry and evil practices, provoking the wrath of God (2 Kings 21:1-18). Amon, his father, continued in these sinful ways and was assassinated by his servants after reigning for only two years (2 Kings 21:19-26). As a result, Josiah ascended to the throne at just eight years old (2 Kings 22:1).

Despite being raised in a corrupt environment, this king did what was right in the sight of the Lord. The Bible states:

“And he did what was right in the sight of the Lord, and walked in all the ways of his father David; he did not turn aside to the right hand or to the left.” (2 Kings 22:2, NKJV)

This verse highlights the king’s determination to follow the example of King David rather than his immediate ancestors.

Religious Reforms

At the age of sixteen, Josiah began to seek the Lord earnestly (2 Chronicles 34:3). By the time he was twenty, he launched a series of reforms aimed at eradicating idolatry from Judah and Jerusalem. His efforts included:

1. Destroying Idolatrous Shrines and Altars
   Josiah ordered the destruction of high places, wooden images, carved idols, and molded images throughout Judah. He also burned the bones of false priests on their altars to desecrate them (2 Chronicles 34:4-5).
2. Restoring the Temple
   In the eighteenth year of his reign (when he was twenty-six), Josiah initiated a major renovation of the Temple, which had fallen into neglect due to previous idolatrous kings (2 Kings 22:3-7).
3. Finding the Book of the Law
   During the temple repairs, the High Priest Hilkiah discovered the Book of the Law, believed to be the Torah or at least Deuteronomy (2 Kings 22:8). When it was read before the king, he tore his clothes in distress, realizing how far Judah had strayed from God’s commandments (2 Kings 22:11-13).
4. Seeking Guidance from the Prophetess Huldah
   Josiah sent his officials to inquire of the Lord through Huldah the prophetess. She confirmed that Judah would face judgment due to its disobedience, but Josiah himself would be spared from seeing this disaster because of his humility and repentance (2 Kings 22:14-20).

The Covenant Renewal and Passover Celebration

After hearing the Law, Josiah gathered all the people of Judah and read the words of the covenant to them. He then made a public commitment to follow the Lord and commanded all his people to do the same (2 Kings 23:1-3). This event marked one of the greatest national revivals in Judah’s history.

One of Josiah’s most significant religious acts was restoring the celebration of the Passover. The Bible records:

“Then the king commanded all the people, saying, ‘Keep the Passover to the Lord your God, as it is written in this Book of the Covenant.’” (2 Kings 23:21, NKJV)

The Passover observed during Josiah’s reign was more elaborate than any since the days of the judges (2 Kings 23:22). It was a moment of great spiritual revival and national unity.

Death and Legacy

Despite his dedication to God, Josiah made a tragic mistake toward the end of his reign. In 609 B.C., Pharaoh Necho of Egypt marched north to assist the Assyrians against Babylon. Josiah, without seeking God’s guidance, attempted to intercept Necho at Megiddo. The Egyptian king warned Josiah not to interfere, stating that he was on a mission from God (2 Chronicles 35:20-21). However, Josiah ignored this warning and was fatally wounded in battle (2 Chronicles 35:22-24).

His death was a great tragedy, and the people of Judah mourned deeply. Even the prophet Jeremiah lamented Josiah’s passing (2 Chronicles 35:25).

Spiritual and Historical Impact

Josiah’s reign was characterized by faithfulness to God, and his reforms delayed God’s judgment on Judah. However, after his death, his successors quickly returned to wickedness, leading to the eventual Babylonian exile.

1. A Model of Righteous Leadership
   Josiah is remembered as one of the most righteous kings of Judah. His unwavering dedication to God serves as an example for all believers.
2. The Power of God’s Word
   The rediscovery of the Book of the Law demonstrates the importance of Scripture in guiding individuals and nations.
3. The Danger of Acting Without Divine Guidance
   Josiah’s decision to fight Pharaoh Necho without consulting God led to his premature death, illustrating the importance of seeking divine direction in all matters.

Conclusion

King Josiah was a beacon of righteousness in a time of darkness. His commitment to God, his efforts to eradicate idolatry, and his restoration of true worship left an enduring legacy. However, his tragic end serves as a reminder that even the most faithful believers must seek God’s guidance in all things. Josiah’s life continues to inspire those who seek to serve God wholeheartedly.

“Now before him there was no king like him, who turned to the Lord with all his heart, with all his soul, and with all his might, according to all the Law of Moses; nor after him did any arise like him.” (2 Kings 23:25, NKJV)