Hezekiah's Passover is a significant event in the history of Judah, marking a pivotal moment of religious reform and national revival under King Hezekiah. This event is detailed in 2 Chronicles 30 and is notable for its emphasis on returning to the worship practices prescribed in the Law of Moses, particularly the observance of the Passover.

Historical Context

Hezekiah, the son of Ahaz, ascended to the throne of Judah around 715 BC. His reign is characterized by a strong commitment to the worship of Yahweh and a determined effort to rid the kingdom of idolatry. Hezekiah's reforms were a response to the spiritual decline that had occurred under his father's rule, during which pagan practices had infiltrated the religious life of Judah.

The Call to Celebrate Passover

In the first year of his reign, Hezekiah initiated a series of religious reforms, including the repair and purification of the Temple in Jerusalem. Once the Temple was restored, Hezekiah sought to reinstate the observance of the Passover, which had been neglected for many years. He sent letters throughout all Israel and Judah, inviting the people to come to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover to the LORD, the God of Israel. This invitation extended even to the remnant of the northern kingdom of Israel, which had recently fallen to Assyria.

2 Chronicles 30:1-5 records, "Then Hezekiah sent word throughout all Israel and Judah, and he also wrote letters to Ephraim and Manasseh, inviting them to come to the house of the LORD in Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover to the LORD, the God of Israel. For the king and his officials and the whole assembly in Jerusalem had decided to celebrate the Passover in the second month, since they had been unable to celebrate it at the regular time because not enough priests had consecrated themselves and the people had not gathered in Jerusalem."

The Celebration

The Passover was celebrated in the second month, Iyar, rather than the prescribed first month, Nisan, due to the unpreparedness of the priests and the people. This decision was in accordance with the provision in the Law for those who were unable to observe the Passover at its appointed time (Numbers 9:10-11).

The celebration was marked by a spirit of unity and repentance. Although some participants were not ceremonially clean, Hezekiah prayed for them, and the LORD heard his prayer, healing the people. 2 Chronicles 30:18-20 states, "Although most of the many people who came from Ephraim, Manasseh, Issachar, and Zebulun had not purified themselves, they still ate the Passover contrary to what was written. But Hezekiah prayed for them, saying, 'May the LORD, who is good, provide atonement for everyone who sets his heart on seeking God—the LORD, the God of his fathers—even if he is not cleansed according to the purification rules of the sanctuary.' And the LORD heard Hezekiah and healed the people."

Significance

Hezekiah's Passover was more than a religious observance; it was a profound act of national repentance and spiritual renewal. It demonstrated Hezekiah's commitment to restoring the covenant relationship between God and His people. The event also highlighted the inclusivity of God's invitation, as it reached out to the northern tribes, symbolizing a desire for unity among the descendants of Jacob.

The celebration of Hezekiah's Passover is a testament to the power of sincere worship and repentance in restoring a nation to its spiritual foundations. It serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to God's commandments and the blessings that follow when His people seek Him with all their hearts.