Topical Encyclopedia The eighteenth year of King Josiah's reign is a significant period in the history of Judah, marked by religious reform and the rediscovery of the Book of the Law. Josiah, the son of Amon, became king of Judah at the tender age of eight and reigned for thirty-one years in Jerusalem (2 Kings 22:1). His reign is noted for its commitment to the worship of Yahweh and the eradication of idolatry from the land.Rediscovery of the Book of the Law In the eighteenth year of his reign, Josiah initiated a major project to repair the temple of the LORD, which had fallen into disrepair during the reigns of his predecessors. He sent Shaphan the scribe, along with other officials, to Hilkiah the high priest to oversee the collection of funds and the commencement of the restoration work (2 Kings 22:3-7). During this process, Hilkiah discovered the Book of the Law in the house of the LORD. He gave the book to Shaphan, who read it and then brought it to King Josiah. Shaphan reported to the king, saying, "Hilkiah the priest has given me a book." And Shaphan read it in the presence of the king (2 Kings 22:8-10). Josiah's Response Upon hearing the words of the Book of the Law, Josiah tore his clothes, a traditional expression of mourning and repentance. He realized that the people of Judah had not been living according to the covenantal laws given by God through Moses. Josiah commanded Hilkiah, along with other officials, to inquire of the LORD on behalf of himself and the people concerning the words of the book, recognizing the impending wrath of God due to their disobedience (2 Kings 22:11-13). Consultation with Huldah the Prophetess The delegation went to Huldah the prophetess, who lived in Jerusalem. She delivered a message from the LORD, confirming the coming disaster upon Judah because of their idolatry and disobedience. However, she also conveyed a message of grace to Josiah, stating that because his heart was responsive and he humbled himself before the LORD, he would be gathered to his fathers in peace, and his eyes would not see the disaster that would come upon the place (2 Kings 22:14-20). Covenant Renewal and Reforms In response to the rediscovery of the Book of the Law and the prophetic message, Josiah gathered all the people of Judah and Jerusalem to the temple. There, he read the words of the Book of the Covenant to them. Josiah made a covenant before the LORD to follow Him and keep His commandments with all his heart and soul. The people pledged themselves to the covenant as well (2 Kings 23:1-3). Josiah's reforms were extensive. He ordered the removal of all the articles made for Baal, Asherah, and the host of heaven from the temple, and he burned them outside Jerusalem. He deposed the idolatrous priests and tore down the high places. Josiah also reinstituted the Passover, which had not been observed as prescribed since the days of the judges (2 Kings 23:4-23). Significance The eighteenth year of Josiah's reign is a pivotal moment in the history of Judah, characterized by a return to the worship of Yahweh and a renewed commitment to the covenant. Josiah's reforms and the rediscovery of the Book of the Law underscore the importance of Scripture and obedience to God's commands. His actions demonstrate the impact of godly leadership and the potential for national revival when a leader seeks the LORD with all his heart. |