Background and Context:

Hezekiah, the son of Ahaz, reigned as the king of Judah during the late 8th century BC. His reign is noted for significant religious reforms aimed at restoring the worship of Yahweh, the God of Israel, and purging idolatry from the land. Hezekiah's efforts to unify the people of Israel and Judah under the worship of the LORD are prominently highlighted in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of the Passover celebration.

Biblical Account:

The account of Hezekiah inviting all Israel and Judah to celebrate Passover is found in 2 Chronicles 30. This chapter details Hezekiah's initiative to reinstate the observance of Passover, which had been neglected during the reign of his predecessors. The king's desire to return to the covenantal practices established by Moses is evident in his actions.

2 Chronicles 30:1 states, "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."

Hezekiah's Invitation:

Hezekiah's invitation extended beyond the borders of Judah to include the remnant of the northern kingdom of Israel, which had recently fallen to Assyrian conquest. This act of reaching out to the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, among others, underscores Hezekiah's vision of a united Israel worshiping the LORD in Jerusalem.

The king's letters urged the people to return to the LORD, emphasizing repentance and the mercy of God. 2 Chronicles 30:9 records his message: "For if you return to the LORD, your brothers and your children will be shown compassion by their captors and will return to this land, for the LORD your God is gracious and compassionate. He will not turn His face away from you if you return to Him."

The Celebration of Passover:

Despite initial resistance and mockery from some in the northern tribes, a significant number of people humbled themselves and came to Jerusalem. The Passover was celebrated in the second month, as the priests had not consecrated themselves in sufficient numbers by the first month, and many people were not ceremonially clean.

The celebration was marked by great joy and unity among the participants. 2 Chronicles 30:26 notes, "There was great rejoicing in Jerusalem, for nothing like this had happened since the days of Solomon son of David king of Israel."

Religious Reforms and Aftermath:

The Passover celebration under Hezekiah's leadership was a catalyst for further religious reforms. The people were inspired to destroy altars and high places dedicated to foreign gods throughout Judah and Israel. This event marked a significant spiritual renewal and a return to the worship of Yahweh.

Hezekiah's efforts to restore the Passover and his call for national repentance highlight his commitment to the covenantal relationship between God and His people. His reign is remembered as a time of spiritual revival and a model of godly leadership in the history of Israel and Judah.