The event of the reading of the Law to King Josiah is a significant moment in the history of Judah, marking a pivotal point in the religious reforms of the kingdom. This event is recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in 2 Kings 22 and 2 Chronicles 34. It highlights the rediscovery of the Book of the Law during a period of spiritual decline and the subsequent revival under Josiah's leadership.

Historical Context

Josiah became king of Judah at the tender age of eight, following the assassination of his father, Amon. His reign, which began around 640 BC, was characterized by a commitment to the worship of Yahweh, in stark contrast to the idolatrous practices of his predecessors. The kingdom of Judah had been steeped in idolatry and syncretism, influenced by the surrounding nations and the apostate kings who had ruled before Josiah.

Discovery of the Book of the Law

In the eighteenth year of Josiah's reign, he initiated a project to repair the temple in Jerusalem. During this restoration, Hilkiah the high priest discovered the Book of the Law in the house of the LORD. This book is widely believed to be a form of Deuteronomy or a collection of Mosaic laws. The discovery is recorded in 2 Kings 22:8 : "Then Hilkiah the high priest said to Shaphan the scribe, 'I have found the Book of the Law in the house of the LORD.' And he gave it to Shaphan, who read it."

The Reading to Josiah

Upon hearing the words of the Law, Shaphan the scribe brought the book to King Josiah and read it aloud to him. The king's reaction was one of profound distress and repentance. 2 Kings 22:11 states, "When the king heard the words of the Book of the Law, he tore his clothes." This act of tearing his garments was a traditional expression of mourning and contrition, indicating Josiah's deep awareness of the nation's deviation from God's commandments.

Josiah's Response and Reforms

Josiah's response to the reading of the Law was immediate and decisive. He recognized the severity of Judah's sin and the impending judgment that the nation faced due to its disobedience. Seeking further understanding, Josiah sent a delegation to consult Huldah the prophetess. Her prophecy confirmed the coming judgment but also assured Josiah that it would not occur during his lifetime due to his humility and repentance (2 Kings 22:15-20).

Motivated by the words of the Law and the prophecy, Josiah embarked on a comprehensive reform to restore true worship in Judah. He gathered all the people, from the least to the greatest, and read the Book of the Covenant to them. 2 Kings 23:3 describes this covenant renewal: "So the king stood by the pillar and made a covenant before the LORD to follow the LORD and to keep His commandments, decrees, and statutes with all his heart and all his soul, and to carry out the words of this covenant that were written in this book. And all the people entered into the covenant."

Josiah's reforms included the removal of idolatrous practices, the destruction of high places, and the reinstitution of the Passover, which had not been observed in such a manner since the days of the judges (2 Kings 23:21-23). His actions were a return to the covenantal faithfulness that God had commanded Israel.

Theological Significance

The reading of the Law to Josiah underscores the power of God's Word to convict, transform, and guide His people. It serves as a reminder of the importance of Scripture in leading individuals and nations back to righteousness. Josiah's response exemplifies the proper reaction to divine revelation—humility, repentance, and a commitment to obedience. This event also highlights the role of leaders in guiding their people toward spiritual renewal and the blessings that follow genuine repentance and reform.