2 Kings 23:14

He smashed the sacred pillars to pieces, cut down the Asherah poles, and covered the sites with human bones.

Study Bible

He smashed the sacred pillars to pieces
The phrase "smashed the sacred pillars" refers to King Josiah's zealous reform efforts to eradicate idolatry from Judah. The Hebrew word for "sacred pillars" is "מַצֵּבוֹת" (matzevot), which were stone monuments often associated with pagan worship practices. These pillars were erected in honor of false gods and were a direct violation of the first and second commandments, which prohibit idolatry. Josiah's actions demonstrate his commitment to restoring the worship of Yahweh alone, aligning with the Deuteronomic reforms that emphasized exclusive devotion to the God of Israel. His destruction of these pillars symbolizes a breaking away from the syncretism that had infiltrated the religious life of Judah.

cut down the Asherah poles
The "Asherah poles" were wooden symbols or trees associated with the worship of the Canaanite goddess Asherah, often placed near altars dedicated to Baal. The Hebrew term "אֲשֵׁרִים" (Asherim) indicates these were not merely decorative but held significant religious meaning for those practicing Canaanite fertility rites. By cutting them down, Josiah was not only removing physical objects of idolatry but also dismantling the cultural and religious practices that led the people away from the covenant with Yahweh. This act of cutting down is reminiscent of the biblical mandate to "tear down their altars, smash their sacred stones" (Exodus 34:13), reinforcing the call to purity and holiness.

and covered the sites with human bones
Covering the sites with "human bones" was a deliberate act to desecrate these pagan worship sites. In ancient Israelite culture, contact with human bones rendered a place ritually unclean (Numbers 19:16). By spreading bones over these sites, Josiah ensured they would be permanently defiled and unfit for any future idolatrous worship. This act was a powerful statement against the false gods and a declaration of the supremacy of Yahweh. It also fulfilled the prophecy given in 1 Kings 13:2, where a man of God foretold that Josiah would defile the altar at Bethel. This fulfillment underscores the sovereignty of God in orchestrating history according to His divine plan.

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. Sacred Pillars
These were stone structures associated with pagan worship, often dedicated to false gods.

3. Asherah Poles
Wooden symbols representing the goddess Asherah, commonly used in Canaanite religious practices.

4. Sites Covered with Human Bones
This act was a form of desecration, rendering the sites ritually unclean and unsuitable for future worship.

Teaching Points

Zeal for Purity
Josiah's actions demonstrate a commitment to purifying worship and removing idolatry. Believers today are called to examine their lives for anything that detracts from pure worship of God.

Obedience to God's Commands
Josiah's reforms were in direct obedience to God's commands in the Law. Christians are encouraged to live in obedience to God's Word, even when it requires difficult changes.

The Consequences of Idolatry
The desecration of the sites with human bones serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of idolatry. Believers should be vigilant against modern forms of idolatry that can creep into their lives.

Leadership and Influence
Josiah's leadership had a profound impact on the nation. This highlights the importance of godly leadership and the influence it can have on others.

The Importance of Repentance
Josiah's actions were part of a broader movement of repentance and returning to God. Christians are called to regularly repent and turn back to God in areas where they have strayed.

Bible Study Questions

1. What motivated Josiah to take such drastic actions against idolatry, and how can we apply this motivation in our own lives?

2. How do the actions of Josiah in 2 Kings 23:14 reflect the instructions given in Exodus 34:13 and Deuteronomy 12:3?

3. In what ways can modern Christians identify and remove "sacred pillars" or "Asherah poles" from their lives?

4. How does Josiah's leadership inspire us to influence others towards godliness in our own spheres of influence?

5. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure our worship remains pure and focused solely on God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 34:13
This verse commands the Israelites to break down altars, smash sacred stones, and cut down Asherah poles, which aligns with Josiah's actions in 2 Kings 23:14.

Deuteronomy 12:3
This passage instructs the Israelites to destroy all places where the nations worship their gods, similar to Josiah's reforms.

1 Kings 13:2
A prophecy about Josiah's actions, foretelling the desecration of the pagan altars by human bones.