Josiah was eight years old when he became king
Josiah's ascension to the throne at such a young age highlights the instability and vulnerability of the kingdom of Judah during this period. His father, Amon, was assassinated, leading to Josiah's early coronation. This situation underscores the political turmoil and the need for divine intervention in the leadership of Judah. Josiah's youth also sets the stage for his later reforms, as he would have been heavily influenced by his advisors and the high priest Hilkiah, who played a significant role in his spiritual development. This early start is reminiscent of other young leaders in the Bible, such as Samuel and David, who were called by God at a young age.

and he reigned in Jerusalem thirty-one years
Josiah's reign, lasting thirty-one years, was marked by significant religious reforms and a return to the worship of Yahweh. This period of stability and reform is crucial in the history of Judah, as it represents a temporary reprieve from the idolatry and apostasy that characterized much of the nation's history. Josiah's reign is often seen as a fulfillment of the prophecy given to the unnamed prophet in 1 Kings 13:2, which foretold the coming of a king named Josiah who would destroy the altars of Bethel. His long reign allowed for the implementation of extensive reforms, including the repair of the temple and the rediscovery of the Book of the Law, which led to a national revival.

His mother’s name was Jedidah daughter of Adaiah
The mention of Josiah's mother, Jedidah, and her lineage, highlights the importance of maternal influence in the biblical narrative. While the Bible does not provide extensive details about Jedidah, her inclusion suggests that she may have played a role in Josiah's upbringing and spiritual formation. The name Jedidah means "beloved," which could imply a positive influence on Josiah's life. The maternal lineage is often noted in the Bible to establish legitimacy and heritage, as seen in other genealogical records.

she was from Bozkath
Bozkath was a town in the territory of Judah, mentioned in Joshua 15:39. Its inclusion here provides geographical context and ties Josiah's family to the southern kingdom of Judah. The mention of Bozkath may also indicate the social standing or tribal affiliation of Josiah's family, as towns and cities often held significance in terms of identity and heritage. This connection to a specific location within Judah underscores the continuity of the Davidic line and the fulfillment of God's promises to David regarding his descendants.

And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD
This phrase indicates a moral and spiritual alignment with God's standards, as seen throughout the Old Testament. The "eyes of the LORD" suggests divine observation and approval, emphasizing God's omniscience and moral authority. This phrase is often used to describe kings who followed God's commandments, contrasting with those who did evil. It highlights the importance of obedience and righteousness in leadership, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:18, where Israel is commanded to do what is right and good in the sight of the LORD.

and walked in all the ways of his father David;
This phrase connects King Josiah to King David, the ideal king in Israel's history, known for his heart after God (1 Samuel 13:14). "Walked" implies a lifestyle or pattern of behavior, suggesting that Josiah's reign was characterized by faithfulness and devotion similar to David's. David's ways included worship, repentance, and a commitment to God's law, setting a standard for future kings. This connection underscores the Davidic covenant and the expectation of a righteous ruler, foreshadowing the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the Son of David (Matthew 1:1).

he did not turn aside to the right or to the left.
This phrase signifies unwavering commitment and consistency in following God's path, echoing Deuteronomy 5:32, where Israel is instructed to follow God's commands without deviation. It implies a steadfastness in faith and practice, avoiding distractions or compromises. This imagery of a straight path is also found in Proverbs 4:27, emphasizing moral integrity and focus. In a broader biblical context, it reflects the call to remain faithful amidst challenges, pointing to the perfect obedience of Christ, who fulfilled the law without fault (Hebrews 4:15).

Now in the eighteenth year of his reign
This phrase marks a significant point in King Josiah's rule over Judah. Josiah became king at the age of eight, following the assassination of his father, Amon. The eighteenth year of his reign would make him 26 years old. This period is crucial as it marks the beginning of Josiah's religious reforms, which were pivotal in the history of Judah. The number eighteen can symbolize a time of maturity and readiness for significant change, aligning with Josiah's commitment to restoring true worship.

King Josiah
Josiah is one of the most notable kings of Judah, known for his dedication to God and his efforts to purify the worship practices of his nation. He is often compared to King David in his zeal for the Lord. Josiah's reign is characterized by a return to the covenantal faithfulness that had been neglected by his predecessors. His actions fulfill the prophecy given in 1 Kings 13:2, where a man of God foretold the birth of a king named Josiah who would reform the nation.

sent the scribe, Shaphan son of Azaliah, the son of Meshullam
Shaphan, the scribe, plays a crucial role in the reforms initiated by Josiah. As a scribe, Shaphan was responsible for recording and managing official documents, making him a key figure in the administration. His lineage, being the son of Azaliah and grandson of Meshullam, suggests a family of some standing and influence. Shaphan's involvement indicates the importance of the task at hand, as he was entrusted with a mission to the temple, highlighting the administrative and religious collaboration in Josiah's reforms.

to the house of the LORD
The "house of the LORD" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, the central place of worship for the Israelites. At this time, the temple had fallen into disrepair due to neglect and the idolatrous practices of previous kings. Josiah's decision to send Shaphan to the temple underscores his commitment to restoring it as the focal point of worship and covenantal faithfulness. The temple's restoration is symbolic of the spiritual renewal Josiah sought for the nation.

saying
This introduces the instructions Josiah is about to give, which will set in motion the events leading to the discovery of the Book of the Law. This discovery is pivotal, as it catalyzes further reforms and a renewed covenant with God. Josiah's directive reflects his proactive leadership and desire to align the nation's practices with the divine commandments.

Go up to Hilkiah the high priest
Hilkiah was the high priest during the reign of King Josiah, a time of significant religious reform in Judah. The high priest held a crucial role in maintaining the spiritual integrity of the nation, serving as a mediator between God and the people. This command to "go up" indicates the importance of the task and the respect for the high priest's authority. Hilkiah's role in discovering the Book of the Law later in this chapter highlights his significance in the religious revival under Josiah.

and have him count the money
The counting of money suggests a need for accountability and transparency in the handling of temple funds. This practice was essential to ensure that the resources were used appropriately for the maintenance and repair of the temple. It reflects a broader biblical principle of stewardship and integrity in financial matters, as seen in other scriptures like 2 Corinthians 8:20-21, which emphasizes honorable conduct in financial dealings.

that has been brought 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. At this time, the temple had fallen into disrepair due to neglect and idolatrous practices by previous kings. The collection of money for its restoration signifies a return to proper worship and reverence for God. The temple's significance as a dwelling place for God's presence is echoed in passages like 1 Kings 8:10-11, where the glory of the LORD fills the temple.

which the doorkeepers have collected from the people
Doorkeepers, or gatekeepers, were responsible for maintaining order and security at the temple entrances. Their role in collecting money indicates a structured system for receiving offerings from the people. This system ensured that contributions were gathered systematically and fairly. The involvement of the people in contributing to the temple's upkeep reflects a communal responsibility for worship and the maintenance of sacred spaces, similar to the collective efforts seen in the construction of the tabernacle in Exodus 35:20-29.

And let them deliver it into the hands of the supervisors of those doing the work on the house of the LORD
This phrase indicates a structured approach to temple restoration, emphasizing accountability and proper management. The "supervisors" were likely Levites or trusted officials, reflecting the importance of maintaining the sanctity and integrity of the temple work. This mirrors the organizational structure seen in Exodus 36:1-7, where skilled workers were appointed for the construction of the Tabernacle. The "house of the LORD" refers to Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem, a central place of worship and national identity for Israel. The temple's condition reflects the spiritual state of the nation, and its repair signifies a return to covenant faithfulness.

who in turn are to give it to the workmen repairing the damages to the house of the LORD—
The "workmen" were skilled laborers, possibly including carpenters, masons, and metalworkers, as seen in 1 Kings 5:13-18 during the original construction of the temple. The phrase "repairing the damages" suggests neglect or desecration, likely due to the idolatrous practices of previous kings, such as Manasseh, who defiled the temple (2 Kings 21:4-7). This restoration effort under King Josiah is part of a broader religious reform, aligning with the rediscovery of the Book of the Law (2 Kings 22:8). The physical restoration of the temple symbolizes spiritual renewal and a return to the worship of Yahweh, prefiguring the ultimate restoration through Jesus Christ, who referred to His body as the temple (John 2:19-21).

to the carpenters, builders, and masons
This phrase highlights the skilled laborers involved in the temple's restoration. Carpenters, builders, and masons were essential for maintaining the structural integrity and beauty of the temple. The mention of these specific trades underscores the importance of craftsmanship in the service of God. In biblical times, these artisans were highly respected for their skills, which were often passed down through generations. The involvement of these workers reflects the communal effort in restoring the temple, a central place of worship and national identity for Israel. This restoration project can be seen as a physical manifestation of spiritual renewal, paralleling the reforms initiated by King Josiah.

to buy timber and dressed stone
Timber and dressed stone were crucial materials for construction and repair. Timber, often sourced from the cedars of Lebanon, was prized for its quality and durability. Dressed stone refers to stones that have been cut and smoothed for building purposes, indicating a level of precision and care in the temple's restoration. The procurement of these materials suggests a significant investment in the temple's future, emphasizing its importance as a sacred space. This mirrors the construction of Solomon's Temple, where similar materials were used, symbolizing continuity and reverence for tradition. The use of these materials also points to the temple as a type of Christ, who is referred to as the cornerstone in the New Testament (Ephesians 2:20).

to repair the temple
The repair of the temple signifies a return to proper worship and covenant faithfulness. During King Josiah's reign, the temple had fallen into disrepair, reflecting the spiritual decline of the nation. The decision to repair the temple marks a pivotal moment in Israel's history, as it coincides with Josiah's religious reforms and the rediscovery of the Book of the Law. This act of restoration is not merely physical but also spiritual, as it represents a renewal of the people's commitment to God. The temple, as the dwelling place of God's presence, is central to Israel's identity and worship. The repair work can be seen as a precursor to the ultimate restoration through Jesus Christ, who cleanses and restores the spiritual temple, the Church (1 Corinthians 3:16-17).

But they need not account for the money
In the context of 2 Kings 22, King Josiah is overseeing the repair of the temple. The phrase indicates a level of trust in the workers, suggesting that they were known for their honesty and reliability. This reflects the biblical principle of stewardship and integrity, as seen in other scriptures like 1 Corinthians 4:2, which emphasizes faithfulness in managing resources. The trust placed in these workers highlights the importance of character and reputation in biblical times.

put into their hands
The phrase refers to the funds allocated for the temple repairs. In ancient Israel, the temple was the center of worship and community life, making its maintenance a priority. The money was collected from the people, as described earlier in the chapter, and entrusted to skilled workers. This reflects the communal responsibility and collective effort in maintaining the house of God, similar to the communal giving seen in the early church in Acts 4:32-35.

since they work with integrity.
Integrity is a key biblical value, and the workers' integrity is emphasized here. This mirrors the character of God, who is described as faithful and true throughout scripture (e.g., Deuteronomy 32:4). The workers' integrity ensured that the funds were used appropriately, serving as a model for Christian conduct. This also foreshadows the integrity of Christ, who perfectly fulfilled His mission on earth, as seen in John 17:4. The emphasis on integrity underscores the importance of trustworthiness in all aspects of life, especially in service to God.

Then Hilkiah the high priest said to Shaphan the scribe
Hilkiah, serving as the high priest, held a significant religious role in Judah, responsible for maintaining the temple and its rituals. His interaction with Shaphan, a scribe and royal secretary, highlights the collaboration between religious and governmental authorities. This partnership was crucial for the implementation of religious reforms. Shaphan's role as a scribe indicates his literacy and authority in matters of state and religion, reflecting the importance of written records in ancient Judah.

“I have found the Book of the Law in the house of the LORD!”
The discovery of the Book of the Law, likely a form of Deuteronomy, was a pivotal moment in Judah's history. The "house of the LORD" refers to Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem, the central place of worship. This finding suggests that the Law had been neglected or lost during previous reigns, possibly due to idolatrous practices. The rediscovery signifies a divine intervention to restore covenantal faithfulness. The Book of the Law served as a foundation for King Josiah's reforms, emphasizing the importance of Scripture in guiding the nation.

And he gave it to Shaphan, who read it.
Hilkiah's decision to give the book to Shaphan underscores the trust and responsibility placed on the scribe. Shaphan's reading of the text indicates the oral tradition of disseminating important documents, ensuring that the king and his court were informed. This act of reading also symbolizes the reintroduction of God's commandments to the people, setting the stage for national repentance and reform. The public reading of the Law echoes similar events in Israel's history, such as Ezra's reading in Nehemiah 8, reinforcing the transformative power of God's Word.

And Shaphan the scribe went to the king and reported
Shaphan was a scribe, a position of significant responsibility in the royal court, often involved in recording and communicating important information. His role here highlights the importance of literacy and record-keeping in ancient Judah. The king referred to is Josiah, who reigned during a time of religious reform. This context is crucial as it sets the stage for the rediscovery of the Book of the Law, which would lead to significant religious reforms. The act of reporting to the king underscores the hierarchical structure of the kingdom and the importance of accountability in governance.

Your servants have paid out the money that was found in the temple
The money mentioned here was collected for the repair of the temple, a project initiated by King Josiah to restore the house of the LORD. This reflects the economic practices of the time, where funds were gathered for public works, especially religious ones. The temple, located in Jerusalem, was the central place of worship for the Israelites, and its maintenance was crucial for the religious life of the nation. The phrase also indicates a level of integrity and transparency in handling the funds, which is significant given the previous periods of corruption and idolatry in Judah.

and have put it into the hands of the workers and supervisors of the house of the LORD.
This phrase highlights the organized approach to the temple restoration project. The workers and supervisors were likely skilled laborers and overseers responsible for the physical repairs. This reflects the division of labor and the importance of skilled craftsmanship in ancient construction projects. The "house of the LORD" refers to Solomon's Temple, a central symbol of Israel's covenant relationship with God. The restoration of the temple can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the ultimate temple, the dwelling place of God with humanity. This act of restoration prefigures the redemptive work of Christ, who restores the broken relationship between God and humanity.

Moreover, Shaphan the scribe told the king
Shaphan was a scribe, a position of significant responsibility in the royal court, often involved in recording and communicating important information. His role here highlights the importance of the message he is delivering. The king referred to is Josiah, who reigned in Judah from approximately 640 to 609 BC. Josiah was known for his reforms and dedication to the worship of Yahweh. This moment is pivotal in his reign, as it sets the stage for religious reform based on the rediscovery of the Law.

Hilkiah the priest has given me a book
Hilkiah was the high priest at the time, serving in the temple in Jerusalem. The "book" mentioned is widely understood to be a scroll of the Law, likely a portion of Deuteronomy or the entire Pentateuch. This discovery is significant because it suggests that the Law had been neglected or lost during previous reigns, particularly under the idolatrous practices of kings like Manasseh and Amon. The rediscovery of the Law is a catalyst for Josiah's reforms, emphasizing the importance of Scripture in guiding the nation.

And Shaphan read it in the presence of the king
The act of reading the book to the king underscores the oral tradition and the importance of hearing the Word of God. In ancient Israel, reading aloud was a common practice, especially for legal and religious texts. This public reading signifies the authority of the text and its role in shaping the king's response. Josiah's reaction to hearing the Law is one of repentance and action, leading to a national renewal of the covenant with God. This moment foreshadows the New Testament emphasis on the transformative power of Scripture, as seen in passages like Romans 10:17, where faith comes by hearing the Word of God.

When the king heard the words of the Book of the Law
This phrase refers to King Josiah of Judah, who reigned from approximately 640 to 609 BC. The "Book of the Law" is generally understood to be a portion of the Torah, likely Deuteronomy, discovered during temple renovations. This discovery is significant as it highlights the neglect of God's law in Judah prior to Josiah's reforms. The reading of the law brought awareness of the nation's deviation from God's commandments, emphasizing the importance of Scripture in guiding the moral and spiritual life of the people. This event parallels the rediscovery of God's Word in personal and communal life, leading to repentance and revival.

he tore his clothes
Tearing one's clothes in ancient Israel was a customary expression of deep grief, distress, or repentance. Josiah's reaction indicates his profound sorrow and alarm upon realizing the extent of Judah's disobedience and the impending judgment prophesied in the law. This act of tearing clothes is a physical manifestation of a contrite heart, aligning with biblical themes of repentance seen in other scriptures, such as Joel 2:13, which calls for rending hearts rather than garments. Josiah's response foreshadows the ultimate repentance and atonement found in Jesus Christ, who fulfills the law and offers redemption through His sacrifice.

and commanded 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. The discovery of the Book of the Law in the temple, which Hilkiah found, was a pivotal moment in Judah's history, leading to a national revival. The priesthood was central to Israel's worship and religious life, and Hilkiah's actions demonstrate the importance of spiritual leadership in guiding the nation back to covenant faithfulness.

Ahikam son of Shaphan
Ahikam was a prominent official in Josiah's court and the son of Shaphan, the scribe. His inclusion in this command indicates his significant role in the administration and reform efforts. Ahikam later protected the prophet Jeremiah, showing his commitment to God's word and the prophets. This connection highlights the continuity of faithful service across generations and the importance of godly influence within families.

Achbor son of Micaiah
Achbor, another official in Josiah's court, was involved in the consultation process regarding the Book of the Law. His presence signifies the collaborative effort among the king's advisors to seek God's will. Achbor's involvement underscores the importance of seeking wise counsel and the collective responsibility of leaders to guide the nation according to divine principles.

Shaphan the scribe
Shaphan played a key role in the rediscovery of the Book of the Law and its presentation to King Josiah. As a scribe, he was responsible for recording and preserving important documents, which was vital for maintaining the nation's legal and religious heritage. Shaphan's actions demonstrate the power of God's word to transform lives and societies when it is read and heeded.

and Asaiah the servant of the king
Asaiah, a servant of King Josiah, was part of the delegation sent to consult the prophetess Huldah. His inclusion shows that even those in seemingly lower positions can play significant roles in God's plans. Asaiah's participation reflects the biblical theme that God uses people from all walks of life to accomplish His purposes, emphasizing the value of faithful service regardless of status.

Go and inquire of the LORD for me, for the people, and for all Judah
This phrase reflects King Josiah's immediate response upon hearing the words of the Book of the Law, which had been found in the temple. It demonstrates his humility and recognition of the need for divine guidance. The act of inquiring of the LORD was a common practice in ancient Israel, often involving prophets or priests who would seek God's will. This reflects a theocratic society where decisions were made with divine consultation. Josiah's concern for both himself and his people highlights his role as a leader who prioritizes spiritual reformation and collective responsibility.

concerning the words in this book that has been found
The "book" refers to a scroll discovered during temple repairs, likely a portion of Deuteronomy or the entire Pentateuch. This discovery is significant as it suggests a period of neglect of the Law, possibly during the reigns of previous kings who led Judah into idolatry. The rediscovery signifies a pivotal moment of religious revival and reform. The emphasis on "found" indicates the loss and subsequent recovery of God's word, symbolizing spiritual renewal and the importance of scripture in guiding the nation.

For great is the wrath of the LORD that burns against us
This acknowledges the seriousness of Judah's situation due to their disobedience. The "wrath of the LORD" is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, representing God's righteous anger against sin and covenant unfaithfulness. It serves as a warning and a call to repentance. The imagery of burning suggests intensity and urgency, emphasizing the need for immediate action to avert divine judgment. This reflects the covenantal relationship where blessings and curses were contingent on obedience to God's commands.

because our fathers have not obeyed the words of this book
This phrase highlights the generational aspect of sin and disobedience. The reference to "our fathers" indicates a historical pattern of neglecting God's commandments, leading to accumulated guilt and consequences. It underscores the importance of faithfulness across generations and the impact of ancestral actions on current circumstances. This acknowledgment of past failures is a step towards repentance and reform, as it involves recognizing the root causes of divine displeasure.

by doing all that is written about us
The emphasis on "doing" underscores the necessity of action in response to God's word. It is not enough to hear or know the law; obedience is required. This reflects the biblical principle that faith is demonstrated through works. The phrase "all that is written" suggests comprehensive adherence to the covenant, not selective obedience. It calls for a holistic approach to living according to God's statutes, which is essential for restoring the relationship between God and His people.

So Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam, Achbor, Shaphan, and Asaiah went and spoke to Huldah the prophetess
Hilkiah the priest was the high priest during King Josiah's reign, instrumental in the discovery of the Book of the Law in the temple. Ahikam, Achbor, Shaphan, and Asaiah were officials and scribes in Josiah's court, indicating the importance of the mission. Huldah the prophetess was one of the few female prophets mentioned in the Old Testament, highlighting the significant role women played in spiritual matters. The decision to consult Huldah suggests her recognized authority and spiritual insight, despite the presence of other prophets like Jeremiah and Zephaniah at the time.

the wife of Shallum son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, the keeper of the wardrobe
Shallum's role as the keeper of the wardrobe suggests a position of responsibility, possibly overseeing the royal garments or priestly vestments. This detail provides insight into the social standing of Huldah's family, indicating they were part of the royal or temple service. The mention of her lineage underscores the importance of family heritage and connections in biblical narratives, often used to establish credibility and authority.

She lived in Jerusalem, in the Second District
The Second District, or Mishneh, was a part of Jerusalem, possibly a newer or expanded area of the city. This location within Jerusalem signifies Huldah's accessibility to the king's officials and her integration into the religious and civic life of the capital. Jerusalem, as the spiritual and political center of Judah, was the appropriate setting for such a significant prophetic consultation, emphasizing the centrality of the city in God's dealings with His people.

And Huldah said to them
Huldah was a prophetess in Jerusalem during the reign of King Josiah. Her role as a female prophet in a predominantly patriarchal society highlights the inclusivity of God's calling. Huldah's presence in the narrative underscores the importance of prophecy in guiding the nation of Israel. Her authority and recognition as a prophetess are significant, as she was consulted by high-ranking officials, indicating her respected status.

This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says
This phrase emphasizes the divine authority behind Huldah's message. The use of "the LORD, the God of Israel" reaffirms the covenant relationship between God and His chosen people. It is a reminder of God's sovereignty and His ongoing communication with Israel through prophets. This introduction is typical of prophetic declarations, ensuring that the message is not of human origin but from God Himself.

Tell the man who sent you
The "man" referred to here is King Josiah, who had sent his officials to inquire of the Lord after the Book of the Law was found in the temple. This phrase indicates the direct and personal nature of God's message to Josiah. It reflects the biblical principle that God communicates with leaders to guide them in their governance. Josiah's initiative to seek God's guidance demonstrates his commitment to spiritual reform and his desire to align the nation with God's will.

that this is what the LORD says:
This phrase emphasizes the divine authority behind the message. In the biblical context, when a prophet declares "this is what the LORD says," it signifies a direct communication from God, underscoring the seriousness and certainty of the message. This is a common prophetic formula found throughout the Old Testament, indicating that the message is not of human origin but divinely inspired.

I am about to bring calamity on this place:
The "place" refers to Jerusalem and the kingdom of Judah. Historically, this prophecy is set during the reign of King Josiah, a time when Judah was under threat from surrounding nations. The calamity foretold is the impending Babylonian invasion and the subsequent destruction of Jerusalem, which occurred in 586 BC. This serves as a fulfillment of earlier warnings given by prophets like Isaiah and Jeremiah, who spoke of judgment due to the people's persistent idolatry and disobedience.

and on its people:
The judgment is not only on the physical location but also on the inhabitants of Judah. This reflects the covenantal relationship between God and His people, where blessings and curses were contingent upon their obedience to the Law (Deuteronomy 28). The people's collective sin, particularly their idolatry and abandonment of God's commandments, has led to this impending judgment.

according to all the words of the book:
This refers to the Book of the Law, likely Deuteronomy, which was discovered during the temple renovations ordered by King Josiah (2 Kings 22:8). The rediscovery of the Law led to a national religious reform, as Josiah sought to align the kingdom with God's commandments. The "words of the book" include the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, which are now being realized due to the nation's failure to uphold the covenant.

that the king of Judah has read:
King Josiah's response to the reading of the Law was one of repentance and reform (2 Kings 22:11-13). His actions demonstrate a sincere attempt to avert the prophesied disaster by turning the nation back to God. However, despite his efforts, the accumulated sin of previous generations had set the course for judgment. Josiah's reading and response highlight the importance of Scripture in guiding leaders and nations, and his story serves as a type of Christ, who also sought to bring people back to God through His life and teachings.

because they have forsaken Me
This phrase highlights the recurring theme of Israel's unfaithfulness to God. Throughout the Old Testament, the Israelites often turned away from God, despite His repeated calls for repentance and faithfulness. This forsaking of God is a violation of the first commandment, which emphasizes the exclusivity of worship due to Yahweh alone (Exodus 20:3). The historical context here is the reign of King Josiah, who was attempting to reform Judah after a period of idolatry under previous kings.

and burned incense to other gods
Burning incense was a common practice in ancient Near Eastern religious rituals, symbolizing prayers or offerings to deities. The Israelites' adoption of this practice for other gods indicates syncretism, where they blended the worship of Yahweh with that of Canaanite and other foreign deities. This act was a direct violation of the covenant relationship established at Sinai, where God commanded exclusive worship (Deuteronomy 6:14-15).

that they might provoke Me to anger
The provocation of God's anger is a significant theme in the prophetic literature. It underscores the personal nature of the relationship between God and His people, where their actions directly affect Him. This anthropomorphic expression of divine anger serves as a warning of impending judgment. The prophets often spoke of God's anger as a response to Israel's covenant unfaithfulness (Jeremiah 7:18-20).

with all the works of their hands
This phrase refers to the idols and altars that the people of Judah constructed, which were often made by human hands. The prophets frequently criticized the futility of idol worship, pointing out that these gods were lifeless and powerless (Isaiah 44:9-20). The "works of their hands" symbolize human rebellion and the rejection of divine sovereignty.

My wrath will be kindled against this place
The "place" refers to Jerusalem and the temple, the center of Jewish worship and identity. God's wrath being kindled indicates an impending judgment, which historically culminated in the Babylonian exile. This phrase serves as a prophetic warning, emphasizing the seriousness of the people's sin and the certainty of divine retribution (2 Kings 25:8-10).

and will not be quenched.’
The unquenchable nature of God's wrath here suggests the inevitability and completeness of the coming judgment. This is a sobering reminder of the consequences of persistent disobedience. Theologically, it points to the holiness and justice of God, who cannot overlook sin. This phrase also foreshadows the ultimate judgment and the need for a savior, fulfilled in the New Testament through Jesus Christ, who quenches the wrath of God for those who believe (Romans 5:9).

But as for the king of Judah
This phrase refers to King Josiah, who reigned from approximately 640 to 609 BC. Josiah was known for his religious reforms and efforts to restore the worship of Yahweh in Judah. His reign marked a significant departure from the idolatrous practices of his predecessors. Josiah's reforms were motivated by the discovery of the Book of the Law in the temple, which led to a national renewal of covenant faithfulness. His actions are reminiscent of the ideal kingship described in Deuteronomy, where the king is to lead the people in obedience to God's law.

who sent you to inquire of the LORD
Josiah sent a delegation to inquire of the LORD after the discovery of the Book of the Law. This reflects his humility and desire to seek divine guidance, a characteristic of a righteous leader. Inquiring of the LORD was a common practice in ancient Israel, often involving prophets or priests who would seek God's will on behalf of the king or the people. This act demonstrates Josiah's recognition of the authority of God's word and his commitment to aligning his reign with divine expectations.

tell him that this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says
This phrase underscores the prophetic authority of the message being delivered. The LORD, the God of Israel, is the covenant name of God, emphasizing His relationship with His chosen people. The use of "the God of Israel" highlights the continuity of God's promises and His faithfulness to the covenant established with the patriarchs. The prophetic message serves as a direct communication from God, affirming His sovereignty and the importance of obedience to His commands.

‘As for the words that you heard’
This refers to the words of the Book of the Law that were read to Josiah, likely a portion of Deuteronomy. The hearing of these words had a profound impact on Josiah, leading to his repentance and reform efforts. The phrase emphasizes the power of God's word to convict and transform. It also connects to the broader biblical theme of hearing and responding to God's voice, as seen in passages like Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and James 1:22-25. The words heard by Josiah were not just historical records but living words with the power to guide and direct the nation of Judah.

because your heart was tender
This phrase highlights the importance of a receptive and responsive heart to God's word. In biblical terms, a "tender heart" signifies humility and openness to divine instruction. This is reminiscent of the Beatitudes in Matthew 5, where Jesus blesses the meek and those who are poor in spirit. A tender heart is contrasted with a hardened heart, which is often associated with rebellion and disobedience in Scripture, such as Pharaoh's heart in Exodus.

and you humbled yourself before the LORD
Humility before God is a recurring theme throughout the Bible. It is a recognition of God's sovereignty and one's own limitations. This act of humbling oneself is seen in other biblical figures like Moses and David, who acknowledged their dependence on God. James 4:10 encourages believers to humble themselves before the Lord, promising that He will lift them up.

when you heard what I spoke against this place and against its people
This refers to the prophetic words of judgment pronounced against Judah and Jerusalem due to their idolatry and disobedience. The historical context is the reign of King Josiah, who discovered the Book of the Law and realized the nation's sins. The phrase underscores the importance of responding to God's warnings, as seen in the prophetic ministries of Isaiah and Jeremiah.

that they would become a desolation and a curse
The language of desolation and curse is common in the Old Testament, often used to describe the consequences of breaking the covenant with God. Deuteronomy 28 outlines blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, which include becoming a desolation. This prophecy was fulfilled with the Babylonian exile, a pivotal event in Jewish history.

and because you have torn your clothes and wept before Me
Tearing one's clothes and weeping were traditional expressions of grief, repentance, and humility in ancient Israel. This act signifies genuine sorrow for sin and a desire for reconciliation with God. Similar expressions of repentance are seen in the story of Nineveh in Jonah 3, where the people fasted and wore sackcloth.

I have heard you,’ declares the LORD
God's response to Josiah's repentance is a testament to His mercy and willingness to forgive. This assurance of being heard by God is echoed in 1 John 1:9, which promises forgiveness and cleansing from sin for those who confess. It also reflects the relational nature of God, who listens to the cries of His people, as seen in the Psalms.

Therefore I will indeed gather you to your fathers
This phrase indicates God's promise to King Josiah that he will die and be buried with his ancestors. In ancient Israel, being "gathered to one's fathers" was a euphemism for death and implied a peaceful transition to the afterlife, often seen as a blessing. This reflects the cultural importance of family lineage and burial practices in Israelite society. The phrase also suggests a continuation of the covenantal relationship with God, as being gathered to one's fathers implies joining the faithful who have gone before.

and you will be gathered to your grave in peace
Despite the impending judgment on Judah, Josiah is promised a peaceful death. Historically, Josiah was one of the few kings of Judah who followed the Lord wholeheartedly, as seen in his reforms and the restoration of the temple. This promise of peace at death is significant, as it contrasts with the turmoil and destruction that would follow his reign. It highlights God's mercy and justice, rewarding Josiah's faithfulness. Theologically, it can be seen as a type of Christ, who also brought peace through His obedience and sacrifice.

Your eyes will not see all the calamity that I will bring on this place
This part of the prophecy assures Josiah that he will not witness the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, which would occur after his death. The calamity refers to the Babylonian invasion and exile, a pivotal event in Israel's history. This promise underscores the severity of Judah's sin and the inevitability of God's judgment, yet it also shows God's compassion in sparing Josiah from witnessing the downfall. It connects to other scriptures where God spares the righteous from witnessing judgment, such as Lot being removed from Sodom.

So they brought her answer back to the king
The "her" refers to Huldah the prophetess, who delivered God's message to Josiah's messengers. This highlights the role of women in prophetic ministry in ancient Israel, showing that God spoke through both men and women. Huldah's prophecy was crucial in confirming the authenticity of the Book of the Law found in the temple and in guiding Josiah's response. This reflects the importance of prophetic voices in guiding the kings and the nation, and it emphasizes the need for leaders to seek and heed God's word.