2 Chronicles 34:14

While they were bringing out the money that had been taken into the house of the LORD, Hilkiah the priest found the Book of the Law of the LORD written by Moses.

Study Bible

While they were bringing out the money
This phrase refers to the collection of funds for the repair and restoration of the temple, a project initiated by King Josiah. The temple had fallen into disrepair during the reigns of previous kings who had turned away from the worship of Yahweh. The collection of money for temple repairs is reminiscent of similar efforts in the time of Joash (2 Kings 12:4-16), highlighting the cyclical nature of Israel's faithfulness and neglect.

that had been taken into the house of the LORD
The "house of the LORD" refers to Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem, the central place of worship for the Israelites. The temple was not only a religious center but also a symbol of God's presence among His people. The funds were gathered from the people, demonstrating a communal effort to restore the temple, which had been desecrated by idolatrous practices.

Hilkiah the priest
Hilkiah was the high priest during the reign of King Josiah. His role was crucial in the religious reforms that Josiah implemented. As a high priest, Hilkiah was responsible for the spiritual leadership of the nation and the proper conduct of temple worship. His discovery of the Book of the Law was pivotal in the revival of true worship in Judah.

found the Book of the Law of the LORD
The "Book of the Law" is generally understood to be a reference to the Torah, particularly the book of Deuteronomy. Its discovery was significant because it had been neglected or lost during the reigns of previous kings who had led the nation into idolatry. The finding of the book led to a national religious reform and a renewed covenant with God, as described in the subsequent verses.

given by Moses
This phrase emphasizes the divine origin and authority of the Law, as it was delivered through Moses, the great prophet and leader of Israel. The Law was central to the covenant relationship between God and His people, outlining the moral, ceremonial, and civil guidelines for living in accordance with God's will. The rediscovery of the Law underlines the importance of returning to the foundational truths given by God through Moses.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hilkiah the Priest
A high priest during the reign of King Josiah, responsible for the spiritual oversight of the temple and its activities. His discovery of the Book of the Law was pivotal in the religious reforms of Judah.

2. The House of the LORD
Refers to the temple in Jerusalem, the central place of worship for the Israelites, where the Book of the Law was found during renovations.

3. The Book of the Law
Likely a scroll containing the Torah, the first five books of the Bible, traditionally attributed to Moses. Its rediscovery was crucial for the religious revival under King Josiah.

4. King Josiah
The king of Judah who initiated significant religious reforms, including the restoration of the temple and the reestablishment of covenantal worship practices.

5. The Scribes and Workers
Those involved in the temple renovations, highlighting the communal effort in restoring the worship of Yahweh.

Teaching Points

The Importance of God's Word
The rediscovery of the Book of the Law underscores the necessity of Scripture in guiding personal and communal life. It serves as a reminder to prioritize regular engagement with the Bible.

Spiritual Renewal and Reform
Josiah's response to the Book of the Law illustrates the transformative power of God's Word. It calls believers to examine their lives and align their actions with biblical teachings.

Leadership and Responsibility
Hilkiah's role in finding the Book of the Law and Josiah's subsequent reforms highlight the responsibility of leaders to seek and uphold God's truth, influencing others towards righteousness.

The Role of the Community
The collective effort in temple restoration and the communal response to the Book of the Law demonstrate the importance of community in spiritual growth and accountability.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the discovery of the Book of the Law in 2 Chronicles 34:14 challenge us to prioritize Scripture in our daily lives?

2. In what ways can we, like Josiah, respond to God's Word with a heart of repentance and a desire for reform?

3. What role does leadership play in guiding others towards spiritual renewal, as seen in the actions of Hilkiah and Josiah?

4. How can we foster a community that values and upholds the teachings of the Bible, similar to the communal efforts in temple restoration?

5. Reflect on a time when engaging with Scripture led to a significant change in your life. How can this experience encourage others in their faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 31:24-26
This passage describes Moses writing the Book of the Law and placing it beside the Ark of the Covenant, which connects to the rediscovery of the same book in 2 Chronicles 34:14.

2 Kings 22:8-13
Provides a parallel account of the discovery of the Book of the Law, emphasizing the impact it had on King Josiah and the nation of Judah.

Psalm 119:105
Highlights the importance of God's Word as a guiding light, which resonates with the rediscovery and subsequent reforms initiated by Josiah.