◄ 2 Kings 22 ►
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Josiah Reigns in Judah (2 Chronicles 34:1–2) 1Josiah was eight years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem thirty-one years. His mother’s name was Jedidah daughter of Adaiah; she was from Bozkath. 2And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD and walked in all the ways of his father David; he did not turn aside to the right or to the left. Funding the Temple Repairs (2 Chronicles 34:8–13) 3Now in the eighteenth year of his reign, King Josiah sent the scribe, Shaphan son of Azaliah, the son of Meshullam, to the house of the LORD, saying, 4“Go up to Hilkiah the high priest and have him count the money that has been brought into the house of the LORD, which the doorkeepers have collected from the people. 5And let them deliver it into the hands of the supervisors of those doing the work on the house of the LORD, who in turn are to give it to the workmen repairing the damages to the house of the LORD— 6to the carpenters, builders, and masons—to buy timber and dressed stone to repair the temple. 7But they need not account for the money put into their hands, since they work with integrity.” Hilkiah Finds the Book of the Law (2 Chronicles 34:14–21) 8Then 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. 9And Shaphan the scribe went to the king and reported, “Your servants have paid out the money that was found in the temple and have put it into the hands of the workers and supervisors of the house of the LORD.” 10Moreover, Shaphan the scribe told the king, “Hilkiah the priest has given me a book.” And Shaphan read it in the presence of the king. 11When the king heard the words of the Book of the Law, he tore his clothes 12and commanded Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam son of Shaphan, Achbora son of Micaiah,b Shaphan the scribe, and Asaiah the servant of the king: 13“Go and inquire of the LORD for me, for the people, and for all Judah concerning the words in this book that has been found. For great is the wrath of the LORD that burns against us because our fathers have not obeyed the words of this book by doing all that is written about us.” Huldah’s Prophecy (2 Chronicles 34:22–28) 14So Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam, Achbor, Shaphan, and Asaiah went and spoke to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum son of Tikvah,c the son of Harhas,d the keeper of the wardrobe. She lived in Jerusalem, in the Second District.e 15And Huldah said to them, “This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘Tell the man who sent you 16that this is what the LORD says: I am about to bring calamity on this place and on its people, according to all the words of the book that the king of Judah has read, 17because they have forsaken Me and burned incense to other gods, that they might provoke Me to anger with all the works of their hands. My wrath will be kindled against this place and will not be quenched.’ 18But as for the king of Judah, who sent you to inquire of the LORD, tell him that this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘As for the words that you heard, 19because your heart was tender and you humbled yourself before the LORD when you heard what I spoke against this place and against its people, that they would become a desolation and a curse, and because you have torn your clothes and wept before Me, I have heard you,’ declares the LORD. 20‘Therefore I will indeed gather you to your fathers, and you will be gathered to your grave in peace. Your eyes will not see all the calamity that I will bring on this place.’” So they brought her answer back to the king. Footnotes: 12 a Achbor is another name for Abdon; see 2 Chronicles 34:20. 12 b Micaiah is a variant of Micah; see 2 Chronicles 34:20. 14 c Tikvah is a variant of Tokhath; see 2 Chronicles 34:22. 14 d Harhas is a variant of Hasrah; see 2 Chronicles 34:22. 14 e Or the Second Quarter, a newer section of Jerusalem; Hebrew the Mishneh Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 2 Kings 22 Summary Huldah's Prophecy Verses 1–2 – Josiah’s Early Reign Josiah becomes king of Judah at eight years old and rules for thirty-one years. Though raised in an environment scarred by his father Amon’s idolatry, he “did what was right in the eyes of the LORD and walked in all the ways of his father David; he did not turn aside to the right or to the left” (v. 2). Verses 3–7 – Funding the Temple Repairs In Josiah’s eighteenth regnal year, the king dispatches Shaphan the scribe to Hilkiah the high priest with a simple command: release the silver that has been brought to the Temple so skilled workmen can repair the neglected house of God. The overseers are so trustworthy that no audit is required—an early snapshot of transparency and integrity. Verses 8–10 – The Book of the Law Discovered During the repairs Hilkiah finds “the Book of the Law in the house of the LORD” (v. 8). He hands the scroll to Shaphan, who reads it privately and then aloud to Josiah. The king, hearing words long forgotten, realizes just how deeply Judah has drifted from God’s covenant. Verses 11–13 – Josiah’s Immediate Response Josiah tears his robes in grief and sends a delegation—Hilkiah, Shaphan, and others—to “inquire of the LORD for me and for the people and for all Judah concerning the words of this book” (v. 13). The urgency underscores a heart that values God’s Word above national pride. Verses 14–20 – Huldah’s Prophecy of Judgment and Mercy The delegation consults Huldah the prophetess. She confirms that Judah will face disaster “because they have forsaken Me” (v. 17) yet relays personal mercy to the tender-hearted king: “Your eyes will not see all the disaster I am bringing on this place” (v. 20). Judgment is certain, but humble repentance still moves God to spare Josiah from witnessing it. 2 Kings 22 unfolds the account of King Josiah, a young and righteous king who seeks to repair the temple and inadvertently unearths the Book of the Law. This discovery triggers a religious reformation in Judah, informed by the words of the prophetess Huldah. Historical Setting and Political Climate Josiah’s reign (640–609 BC) sits at the tail end of the Assyrian empire’s power and the rise of Babylon. His grandfather Manasseh had filled Jerusalem with idols (2 Kings 21:3–9), bringing national guilt. The Assyrian-dominated world offered Judah political cover for decades; once that cover weakened, Josiah saw an opening to bring spiritual reform without immediate foreign backlash. Integrity in Temple Finances The priests hand the money to “the supervisors of the work” (22:5). There’s no ledger because “they acted with integrity” (v. 7). Scripture consistently elevates trustworthy stewardship (1 Corinthians 4:2; Luke 16:10). The scene models transparency: public offerings are collected, craftsmen are paid, and the Temple is restored without suspicion. Archaeology and Named Individuals • Bullae (clay seal impressions) inscribed “(belonging) to Gemariah son of Shaphan” and “(belonging) to Azariah son of Hilkiah” were unearthed in the City of David—names matching the Shaphan family and priestly line in Kings and Jeremiah. • Ostraca from Lachish reference Temple-related correspondence in the late seventh century BC, aligning with Josiah’s era of national communication and reform. • A scroll-sized copper alloy cylinder found near the Temple Mount suggests how law codes were stored; while not directly linked to Josiah, it illustrates the period’s document preservation. The Book of the Law—What Was Found? Many scholars identify the scroll as Deuteronomy or a portion of it. The curses read aloud (22:13) mirror Deuteronomy 28. Deuteronomy also commands a king to write and read the Law (17:18-20), something Josiah immediately pursues in the next chapter. The scroll’s rediscovery revives covenant identity lost since the days of Hezekiah. Huldah the Prophetess—Authorized Voice of God God speaks through a woman at a time when male prophets like Jeremiah and Zephaniah were active. Her faithful word echoes Deborah’s leadership centuries earlier (Judges 4 – 5). The episode proves God values obedience, not merely position or gender (Acts 2:17; Galatians 3:28). Judgment Deferred, Not Cancelled Huldah’s message balances mercy and justice. God’s verdict resembles Leviticus 26:27-33—desolation promised for persistent disobedience. Yet personal repentance still yields present-tense grace (Psalm 51:17; Isaiah 66:2). Josiah’s death in peace (2 Kings 22:20) comes before Babylon’s sieges, fulfilling the word precisely. Spiritual Principles and Life Application • Rediscovery of Scripture can spark national and personal revival. • True repentance is immediate, not delayed. Josiah tears his robes the moment he hears God’s Word. • Humility precedes insight (Proverbs 3:34; James 4:6). God reveals His plans through a humble king and a willing prophetess. • Institutional reform begins with heart reform; temple repairs and covenant renewal go hand in hand. Connections to Other Scriptures • Compare Josiah’s reforms in 2 Kings 23 with Hezekiah’s Passover revival (2 Chronicles 30). Both root change in Scripture. • Jeremiah, who began prophesying during Josiah’s reign (Jeremiah 1:2), later mourns Judah’s downfall, confirming Huldah’s word. • 2 Chronicles 34:3–7 details how Josiah purged high places even in the former northern kingdom—fulfilling an unnamed “man of God” prophecy from 1 Kings 13:2. • The tearing of robes parallels Ezra’s response to sin in Ezra 9:3 and points forward to New Testament repentance (Matthew 3:8). Foreshadowing Christ Josiah points to Jesus as the righteous King who treasures God’s Law and cleanses the Temple (Matthew 21:12–13). While Josiah’s reforms cannot stop Judah’s exile, Jesus brings lasting forgiveness and writes the Law on hearts (Jeremiah 31:31–34; Hebrews 8:10). Takeaway for Today Rediscovering Scripture always leads to fresh awe of God, honest assessment of sin, and bold obedience. Like Josiah, believers are called to act on the Word immediately, trusting that humble hearts still move the heart of God. Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 119:105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. This verse underscores the guiding power of Scripture, as seen in Josiah's life. James 1:22 Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. Josiah exemplified this by acting on the Word of God. Proverbs 11:14 Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety. Josiah's consultation with Huldah reflects the wisdom of seeking counsel. Teaching Points Josiah's Early Reign Josiah became king at a young age, and he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD and walked in all the ways of his father David, not turning aside to the right or to the left (2 Kings 22:2). His commitment to righteousness set the stage for national reform. Discovery of the Book of the Law During temple repairs, Hilkiah the high priest found the Book of the Law. Shaphan the scribe read it to King Josiah, which led to a profound response. When the king heard the words of the Book of the Law, he tore his clothes (2 Kings 22:11), signifying his deep conviction and repentance. Seeking God's Guidance Josiah sent a delegation to inquire of the LORD through the prophetess Huldah. Her message confirmed the impending judgment due to the nation's disobedience but also acknowledged Josiah's humility and repentance (2 Kings 22:15-20). Leadership and Reform Josiah's leadership was marked by decisive action. He initiated religious reforms, purging idolatry and restoring the covenant with God. His actions demonstrate the influence of godly leadership in turning a nation back to God. Practical Applications Value of God's Word Just as the discovery of the Book of the Law transformed Josiah's reign, we should prioritize reading and applying Scripture in our lives. It has the power to convict, guide, and transform us. Repentance and Humility Josiah's response to God's Word was one of humility and repentance. We should cultivate a heart that is quick to repent and align with God's will. Influence of Leadership Whether in our families, workplaces, or communities, we can lead by example, promoting righteousness and encouraging others to follow God. Seeking Godly Counsel Josiah sought guidance from the prophetess Huldah. We should seek wise, godly counsel when making decisions, especially those with spiritual implications. People 1. Josiah Josiah is the central figure in 2 Kings 22, described as the king of Judah who began his reign at eight years old and reigned for thirty-one years in Jerusalem. He is noted for doing what was right in the eyes of the LORD, following the ways of his ancestor David (2 Kings 22:1-2). The Hebrew root for his name, יֹאשִׁיָּהוּ (Yoshiyahu), means "Yahweh supports" or "Yahweh heals." 2. Amon Amon is mentioned as the father of Josiah and the previous king of Judah. He is noted for his evil reign, which led to his assassination (2 Kings 22:1). His name in Hebrew, אָמוֹן (Amon), is associated with the Egyptian god Amun, but in the context of Hebrew, it can mean "faithful" or "trustworthy." 3. Jedidah Jedidah is identified as the mother of Josiah, the daughter of Adaiah from Bozkath (2 Kings 22:1). Her name in Hebrew, יְדִידָה (Yedidah), means "beloved." 4. Hilkiah Hilkiah is the high priest who finds the Book of the Law in the house of the LORD during the temple repairs (2 Kings 22:4, 8). His name in Hebrew, חִלְקִיָּהוּ (Chilqiyahu), means "my portion is Yahweh." 5. Shaphan Shaphan is the scribe who reads the Book of the Law to King Josiah after it is found by Hilkiah (2 Kings 22:3, 8-10). His name in Hebrew, שָׁפָן (Shaphan), means "rock badger" or "coney." 6. Ahikam Ahikam is the son of Shaphan, mentioned as one of the king's officials sent to inquire of the LORD (2 Kings 22:12). His name in Hebrew, אֲחִיקָם (Achikam), means "my brother has risen." 7. Achbor Achbor is another official sent by Josiah to inquire of the LORD. He is the son of Micaiah (2 Kings 22:12). His name in Hebrew, עַכְבּוֹר (Achbor), means "mouse." 8. Shaphan Shaphan is the scribe who reads the Book of the Law to King Josiah after it is found by Hilkiah (2 Kings 22:3, 8-10). His name in Hebrew, שָׁפָן (Shaphan), means "rock badger" or "coney." 9. Asaiah Asaiah is a servant of the king, also sent to inquire of the LORD (2 Kings 22:12). His name in Hebrew, עֲשָׂיָה (Asayah), means "Yahweh has made." 10. Huldah Huldah is the prophetess consulted by Josiah's officials regarding the Book of the Law. She is the wife of Shallum, the keeper of the wardrobe (2 Kings 22:14). Her name in Hebrew, חֻלְדָּה (Chuldah), means "weasel" or "mole." 11. Shallum Shallum is the husband of Huldah, described as the keeper of the wardrobe (2 Kings 22:14). His name in Hebrew, שַׁלּוּם (Shallum), means "retribution" or "recompense." Places 1. Jerusalem Jerusalem is the central location in 2 Kings 22, where King Josiah reigns. It is the capital city of Judah and the spiritual center for the Israelites. The Hebrew root for Jerusalem is "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim), which is often associated with peace and completeness. 2. The House of the LORD (Temple) Referred to as "the house of the LORD" in the text, this is the Temple in Jerusalem where the Book of the Law is found during renovations. The Hebrew term for the Temple is "בֵּית יְהוָה" (Beit Yahweh), indicating it as the dwelling place of God. 3. Huldah's House in the Second District Huldah the prophetess is consulted regarding the Book of the Law, and she resides in Jerusalem's "Second District." The Hebrew term for district is "מִשְׁנֶה" (Mishneh), suggesting a secondary or additional part of the city. Events 1. Josiah Becomes King Josiah was eight years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem for thirty-one years. His mother’s name was Jedidah, the daughter of Adaiah from Bozkath (2 Kings 22:1). 2. Josiah's Righteous Reign Josiah did what was right in the eyes of the LORD and walked in all the ways of his ancestor David, not turning aside to the right or to the left (2 Kings 22:2). The Hebrew root for "right" (יָשָׁר, yashar) implies uprightness and integrity. 3. The Temple Repair In the eighteenth year of his reign, King Josiah sent Shaphan the scribe to the house of the LORD, instructing him to oversee the repair of the temple. Josiah commanded that the money collected from the people be used to pay the workers and purchase materials for the repairs (2 Kings 22:3-7). 4. Discovery of the Book of the Law During the temple repairs, Hilkiah the high priest found the Book of the Law in the house of the LORD. He gave it to Shaphan, who read it (2 Kings 22:8). The term "Book of the Law" (סֵפֶר הַתּוֹרָה, sefer ha-torah) refers to the scroll containing God's commandments. 5. Shaphan Reports to Josiah Shaphan the scribe reported to King Josiah about the progress of the temple repairs and read the Book of the Law to him (2 Kings 22:9-10). 6. Josiah's Reaction Upon hearing the words of the Book of the Law, Josiah tore his clothes, a sign of mourning and repentance, recognizing the nation's disobedience to God's commands (2 Kings 22:11). 7. Consultation with Huldah the Prophetess Josiah sent a delegation, including Hilkiah the priest and Shaphan the scribe, to consult Huldah the prophetess regarding the words of the Book of the Law (2 Kings 22:12-14). 8. Huldah's Prophecy Huldah prophesied that disaster would come upon Jerusalem and its inhabitants because they had forsaken the LORD and worshiped other gods. However, because Josiah's heart was responsive and he humbled himself before the LORD, he would be gathered to his ancestors in peace, and his eyes would not see the disaster (2 Kings 22:15-20). The Hebrew root for "humble" (כָּנַע, kana) indicates submission and humility before God. Lessons from 2 Kings 22 1. Rediscovering God's Word Brings Revival In 2 Kings 22, we see the power of rediscovering God's Word. When the Book of the Law was found in the temple, it sparked a spiritual revival. This reminds us that immersing ourselves in Scripture can reignite our faith and transform our lives. As it is written, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path" (Psalm 119:105). Let the Bible guide you daily, and watch how it revitalizes your spirit. 2. The Importance of Godly Leadership King Josiah's response to the discovery of the Book of the Law demonstrates the impact of godly leadership. His humility and commitment to follow God's commands led to national reform. "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom" (Proverbs 9:10), and Josiah's reverence for God set a powerful example. Leaders who prioritize God's will can inspire positive change in their communities. 3. Humility Opens the Door to God's Favor Josiah's reaction to the reading of the Law was one of humility and repentance. He tore his clothes and wept before the Lord, acknowledging the nation's sins. "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble" (James 4:6). When we approach God with a humble heart, we open ourselves to His grace and favor, just as Josiah did. 4. The Power of Repentance Repentance is a recurring theme in 2 Kings 22. Josiah's genuine sorrow for the nation's disobedience led to a covenant renewal. "Repent, then, and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped away" (Acts 3:19). True repentance involves a change of heart and direction, aligning our lives with God's will and experiencing His forgiveness. 5. God's Word Demands a Response When Josiah heard the words of the Law, he didn't just listen—he acted. This teaches us that God's Word demands a response. "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says" (James 1:22). Let Scripture move you to action, transforming your life and the lives of those around you. 6. The Role of the Temple in Worship The temple played a central role in the spiritual life of Israel, and its restoration was crucial to Josiah's reforms. This highlights the importance of having a dedicated space for worship and communion with God. "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them" (Matthew 18:20). Whether it's a church, a home group, or a quiet corner, find a place to connect with God and fellow believers. 7. Seeking Godly Counsel Josiah sought the counsel of Huldah the prophetess to understand God's will. This underscores the value of seeking godly wisdom and guidance. "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed" (Proverbs 15:22). Surround yourself with wise, godly individuals who can provide insight and encouragement on your spiritual journey. 8. The Impact of a Single Faithful Life Josiah's faithfulness had a profound impact on his nation. His dedication to God led to widespread reform and renewal. "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:16). Your faithfulness, no matter how small it may seem, can influence others and bring glory to God. 9. God's Justice and Mercy In 2 Kings 22, we see both God's justice and His mercy. While He acknowledged the nation's sins, He also showed mercy to Josiah because of his humility. "The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love" (Psalm 103:8). Trust in God's perfect balance of justice and mercy, knowing that He is always ready to forgive and restore. 10. The Legacy of Obedience Josiah's obedience left a lasting legacy. His reforms were remembered long after his reign, demonstrating the enduring impact of a life lived in obedience to God. "Blessed are those who hear the word of God and obey it" (Luke 11:28). Strive to leave a legacy of faithfulness, inspiring future generations to walk in God's ways. Topics 1. Josiah's Reign Begins Josiah becomes king of Judah at the age of eight and reigns for thirty-one years in Jerusalem. His mother is named Jedidah, the daughter of Adaiah from Bozkath. Josiah is noted for doing what is right in the eyes of the LORD, following the ways of his ancestor David without turning aside. This reflects the Hebrew root "יָשַׁר" (yashar), meaning to be straight or right, indicating Josiah's righteous path. 2. The Temple Repairs In the eighteenth year of his reign, King Josiah commissions the repair of the Temple of the LORD. He instructs Shaphan the scribe, along with other officials, to oversee the collection of funds from the people and ensure the money is used to pay the workers restoring the Temple. This action underscores the importance of maintaining the sanctity and function of the Temple as a place of worship. 3. Discovery of the Book of the Law During the Temple repairs, Hilkiah the high priest finds the Book of the Law. He gives it to Shaphan, who reads it and then reports to King Josiah. The discovery of the Book of the Law, likely a portion of Deuteronomy, highlights the Hebrew term "סֵפֶר" (sefer), meaning book or scroll, emphasizing the significance of written Scripture in guiding the people. 4. Josiah's Response to the Law Upon hearing the words of the Book of the Law, Josiah tears his clothes in distress, recognizing the nation's failure to adhere to the covenant with God. This act of tearing garments is a traditional expression of mourning and repentance, reflecting the Hebrew root "קָרַע" (qara), meaning to tear or rend. 5. Consultation with Huldah the Prophetess Josiah sends a delegation to consult Huldah the prophetess regarding the words of the Book. Huldah delivers a message from the LORD, confirming the impending disaster due to the people's disobedience but also acknowledging Josiah's humility and repentance. This consultation underscores the role of prophets in conveying God's will and the Hebrew root "נָבִיא" (navi), meaning prophet. 6. God's Promise to Josiah Huldah prophesies that because Josiah's heart was responsive and he humbled himself before the LORD, he will be gathered to his ancestors in peace, and his eyes will not see the disaster that will befall the nation. This promise highlights the Hebrew root "שָׁלוֹם" (shalom), meaning peace or completeness, indicating God's mercy towards Josiah. Themes 1. Righteous Leadership Josiah's reign is marked by righteousness and a return to the ways of the Lord. "Josiah was eight years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem thirty-one years. His mother’s name was Jedidah daughter of Adaiah; she was from Bozkath. And he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD and walked in all the ways of his father David, not turning aside to the right or to the left." (2 Kings 22:1-2). The Hebrew root for "right" (יָשָׁר, yashar) implies uprightness and integrity. 2. Restoration of the Temple Josiah initiates repairs to the temple, emphasizing the importance of worship and the house of God. "Go up to Hilkiah the high priest and have him count the money that has been brought into the house of the LORD, which the doorkeepers have collected from the people." (2 Kings 22:4). The Hebrew word for "house" (בַּיִת, bayit) signifies not just a physical structure but a place of divine presence. 3. Discovery of the Book of the Law The finding of the Book of the Law highlights the theme of rediscovering God's Word. "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." (2 Kings 22:8). The Hebrew term for "law" (תּוֹרָה, torah) refers to instruction or teaching, underscoring the importance of divine guidance. 4. Repentance and Humility Josiah's response to the reading of the Law demonstrates repentance and humility. "When the king heard the words of the Book of the Law, he tore his clothes." (2 Kings 22:11). The act of tearing clothes is a traditional Hebrew expression of mourning and repentance. 5. Seeking Divine Guidance Josiah seeks the Lord's guidance through the prophetess Huldah, showing the importance of seeking God's will. "Go and inquire of the LORD for me and for the people and for all Judah about the words of this book that has been found." (2 Kings 22:13). The Hebrew root for "inquire" (דָּרַשׁ, darash) implies a diligent search or seeking. 6. Judgment and Mercy The prophecy delivered by Huldah reveals both impending judgment and mercy. "Because your heart was tender and you humbled yourself before the LORD when you heard what I spoke against this place and its people... I have heard you, declares the LORD." (2 Kings 22:19). The Hebrew word for "tender" (רַךְ, rakh) suggests a softness or sensitivity to God's voice. Prayer Points Pray for a Heart for God's Word Ask God to give us a deep love and respect for His Word, that it may guide our lives as it did for Josiah. Pray for Repentance and Renewal Seek God's help in identifying areas of our lives that need repentance and renewal, just as Josiah led Judah in reform. Pray for Godly Leadership Pray for leaders in our churches, communities, and nations to be guided by righteousness and the fear of the Lord. Pray for Wisdom and Counsel Ask God to provide us with wise counsel and discernment in our decisions, following the example of Josiah's inquiry of the Lord. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can we verify that the “Book of the Law” truly existed and was merely “found” in the Temple as claimed in 2 Kings 22:8? 2. Why does no external archaeological record substantiate the dramatic religious reforms Josiah supposedly enacted in 2 Kings 22? 3. Does the sudden discovery of lost scriptures in 2 Kings 22:8–13 contradict earlier biblical claims that the Law was carefully preserved? 4. How do we reconcile the timeline of Josiah’s reign in 2 Kings 22:1 with other historical and biblical sources referencing his lineage and age? 5. Why is Huldah consulted instead of more prominent prophets in 2 Kings 22:14–20, and what does this imply about the narrative’s historical credibility? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Josiah's response to the Book of the Law reflect his character and his relationship with God? 2. Why is the discovery of the Book of the Law in the temple significant? 3. What role does Huldah play in this chapter? How does her prophecy affect the king? 4. Discuss the theme of repentance as reflected in King Josiah's actions. 5. How does this chapter demonstrate the effects of leadership on the spiritual state of a nation? 6. How can we apply the lessons of King Josiah's humility and repentance in our lives today? 7. How does Josiah's trust in the laborers during the temple repair reflect his leadership style? 8. Compare and contrast the reign of Josiah with his predecessors. What made him different? 9. How does the prophecy of Huldah about the impending disaster impact your understanding of divine justice? 10. Why do you think God decided to spare Josiah from the disaster? 11. How might the story have unfolded if the Book of the Law hadn't been found? 12. Discuss the relationship between obedience to God's laws and peace and prosperity in a nation. 13. In what ways does Josiah model the importance of seeking God's will when confronted with difficult truths? 14. How would you respond if you discovered your lifestyle was contrary to God's will, as Josiah did? 15. How can you apply the principles of repentance and reformation seen in Josiah's actions to modern societal problems? 16. In what ways do the responsibilities of leaders in biblical times parallel the responsibilities of leaders today? 17. How does Huldah's prophecy fit into the larger narrative of God's plan for His people? 18. Can you think of a time when you had to confront a difficult truth, like Josiah? How did you respond, and what did you learn? 19. How does this chapter show the importance of scripture in guiding religious and moral behavior? 20. How can we discern and respond to God's will in our lives today, as King Josiah did? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions