Background:
Josiah, the sixteenth king of Judah, reigned from approximately 640 to 609 BC. He is renowned for his religious reforms and efforts to restore the worship of Yahweh in Judah. His reign is detailed in the biblical books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles. Josiah ascended to the throne at the tender age of eight after the assassination of his father, Amon. His reign is marked by a return to the covenantal faithfulness that had been neglected by his predecessors.

Discovery of the Book of the Law:
In the eighteenth year of Josiah's reign, a significant event occurred that catalyzed his reform efforts. During the repair of the Temple, Hilkiah the high priest discovered the Book of the Law. This discovery is recorded in 2 Kings 22:8-11 and 2 Chronicles 34:14-19. Upon hearing the words of the Law, Josiah tore his clothes in an act of repentance, recognizing the nation's deviation from God's commandments.

The Restoration of the Passover:
One of Josiah's most notable reforms was the restoration of the Passover, a pivotal event in the religious life of Israel. The Passover had not been observed in accordance with the Law for many years. Josiah's restoration of the Passover is detailed in 2 Kings 23:21-23 and 2 Chronicles 35:1-19.

In 2 Kings 23:21-23 , it is written: "The king commanded all the people, 'Keep the Passover to the LORD your God, as it is written in this Book of the Covenant.' For such a Passover had not been observed from the days of the judges who judged Israel, nor throughout the days of the kings of Israel and Judah. But in the eighteenth year of Josiah’s reign, this Passover was observed to the LORD in Jerusalem."

2 Chronicles 35 provides a more detailed account of the Passover celebration under Josiah. The king organized the priests and Levites, ensuring they were prepared for their duties. He provided the people with lambs and goats for the Passover offerings, demonstrating his commitment to the proper observance of the feast. The celebration was marked by a return to the stipulations outlined in the Mosaic Law, emphasizing the importance of adherence to God's commands.

Significance:
Josiah's restoration of the Passover was a profound act of national repentance and renewal. It signified a return to the foundational events of Israel's history, particularly the Exodus, which the Passover commemorates. By reinstating the Passover, Josiah sought to realign the nation with its covenantal identity and heritage. This act of obedience was a testament to Josiah's dedication to the Lord and his desire to lead the people in righteousness.

The restoration of the Passover under Josiah's leadership is often viewed as a high point in the history of Judah, reflecting a brief period of spiritual revival before the eventual decline and exile. Josiah's reforms, including the Passover celebration, underscore the importance of returning to God's Word and the blessings that follow obedience to His commands.