2 Kings 23:15

He even pulled down the altar at Bethel, the high place set up by Jeroboam son of Nebat, who had caused Israel to sin. Then he burned the high place, ground it to powder, and burned the Asherah pole.

Study Bible

He even pulled down the altar at Bethel
This phrase highlights the decisive actions of King Josiah, who was committed to purging idolatry from the land. The altar at Bethel was significant because it was established by Jeroboam, the first king of the northern kingdom of Israel, as a rival worship site to Jerusalem (1 Kings 12:28-30). The Hebrew root for "pulled down" (נָתַץ, natats) implies a complete and forceful destruction, symbolizing Josiah's determination to eradicate false worship and restore true worship of Yahweh.

the high place set up by Jeroboam son of Nebat
Jeroboam's establishment of high places was a direct violation of God's command to worship only in the temple in Jerusalem. The term "high place" (בָּמָה, bamah) refers to elevated sites used for worship, often associated with pagan practices. Jeroboam's actions led Israel into sin by encouraging idolatry, which had long-lasting negative effects on the spiritual state of the nation. This historical context underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands and the dangers of compromising true worship.

who had caused Israel to sin
This phrase emphasizes the responsibility of leadership and the impact of Jeroboam's actions on the entire nation. The Hebrew word for "sin" (חָטָא, chata) conveys the idea of missing the mark or straying from the path. Jeroboam's introduction of idolatry set a precedent that led Israel away from God's covenant, illustrating the profound influence leaders have on the spiritual direction of their people.

Then he burned the high place
Josiah's act of burning the high place signifies a total and irreversible destruction of the idolatrous site. Fire is often used in the Bible as a symbol of purification and judgment. By burning the high place, Josiah was not only removing the physical structure but also symbolically cleansing the land of its spiritual defilement.

ground it to powder
This phrase indicates the thoroughness of Josiah's reform. The Hebrew root for "ground" (דָּקַק, daqaq) suggests reducing something to fine dust, leaving no trace of its former existence. This action reflects Josiah's zeal for ensuring that the idolatrous practices could not be revived, demonstrating his commitment to a complete return to the worship of Yahweh.

and burned the Asherah pole
The Asherah pole was a wooden symbol associated with the worship of the Canaanite goddess Asherah. By burning it, Josiah was eliminating a significant element of pagan worship. The destruction of the Asherah pole is a powerful reminder of the need to remove all forms of idolatry and false worship from our lives, reaffirming the exclusive worship of the one true God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Josiah
The king of Judah who initiated religious reforms to restore the worship of Yahweh and eliminate idolatry from the land.

2. Bethel
A significant location in the Northern Kingdom of Israel, known for its association with idolatrous worship practices established by Jeroboam.

3. Jeroboam son of Nebat
The first king of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, who set up golden calves at Bethel and Dan, leading Israel into sin.

4. High Place
A site of worship, often on elevated ground, where sacrifices and offerings were made, frequently associated with idolatry.

5. Asherah Pole
A wooden symbol representing the Canaanite goddess Asherah, often placed near altars for idol worship.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Righteous Leadership
Josiah's actions demonstrate the impact a godly leader can have in guiding a nation back to righteousness. Leaders today are called to uphold and promote godly values.

The Dangers of Idolatry
The passage highlights the destructive nature of idolatry, which leads people away from God. Believers must be vigilant in identifying and removing modern-day idols from their lives.

The Power of Repentance and Reform
Josiah's reforms show that genuine repentance involves not only turning away from sin but also actively destroying its influence. Christians are encouraged to take decisive action against sin in their lives.

The Legacy of Sin
Jeroboam's sin had long-lasting effects on Israel. This serves as a reminder of how sin can impact future generations, urging believers to break cycles of sin in their families and communities.

Commitment to God's Word
Josiah's reforms were rooted in a return to the Scriptures. This emphasizes the need for believers to ground their lives and decisions in the Word of God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Josiah's destruction of the altar at Bethel reflect his commitment to God, and what can we learn from his example about dealing with sin in our own lives?

2. In what ways can modern-day Christians identify and remove "high places" or idols that may exist in their lives today?

3. How does the account of Jeroboam and the golden calves serve as a warning about the consequences of leading others into sin?

4. What role does Scripture play in guiding us to make reforms in our personal and communal lives, as seen in Josiah's actions?

5. How can we, as individuals and as a church community, ensure that we are leaving a legacy of faithfulness rather than sin for future generations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 12:28-30
This passage describes Jeroboam's establishment of the golden calves at Bethel and Dan, which led Israel into sin, directly connecting to the idolatrous practices Josiah sought to abolish.

2 Chronicles 34:3-7
Chronicles Josiah's reforms, providing a parallel account of his efforts to purify the land from idolatry, including the destruction of high places and Asherah poles.

Exodus 20:3-5
The Ten Commandments, which prohibit idolatry, underscore the importance of Josiah's actions in aligning with God's commandments.