Josiah, the sixteenth king of Judah, is renowned for his devout commitment to the Lord and his zealous reforms to restore true worship in the kingdom. His reaction to the discovery of the Book of the Law is a pivotal moment in biblical history, illustrating his deep reverence for God and his determination to lead his people back to righteousness.

Discovery of the Book of the Law

During the eighteenth year of Josiah's reign, while repairs were being made to the temple, Hilkiah the high priest found the Book of the Law in the house of the Lord (2 Kings 22:8). This discovery was significant, as it likely referred to a portion of the Pentateuch, possibly Deuteronomy, which had been neglected during the reigns of previous kings who had led Judah into idolatry.

Josiah's Immediate Reaction

Upon hearing the words of the Book of the Law, Josiah's reaction was one of profound distress. The king tore his clothes, a traditional expression of mourning and repentance, indicating his deep sorrow over the nation's disobedience to God's commands (2 Kings 22:11). This act demonstrated Josiah's humility and his recognition of the gravity of Judah's sins.

Seeking Divine Guidance

Understanding the seriousness of the situation, Josiah sent a delegation to inquire of the Lord through the prophetess Huldah. He sought to understand the implications of the words he had heard and to receive guidance on how to proceed (2 Kings 22:12-14). Huldah's prophecy confirmed that disaster would come upon Judah due to their idolatry and disobedience, but she also conveyed a message of grace to Josiah. Because of his tender heart and humility, God promised that Josiah would not witness the impending calamity during his lifetime (2 Kings 22:18-20).

Reformation and Covenant Renewal

In response to the divine message, Josiah initiated a comprehensive religious reform. He gathered all the people of Judah and read the words of the Book of the Covenant to them. Standing by the pillar, he made a covenant before the Lord to follow Him and keep His commandments with all his heart and soul (2 Kings 23:1-3). The people joined in this covenant, committing themselves to the renewed observance of God's laws.

Josiah's reforms were extensive. He purged the land of idolatrous practices, destroyed the high places, and removed the pagan altars and idols that had been erected by previous kings (2 Kings 23:4-20). He also reinstituted the Passover, which had not been observed with such dedication since the days of the judges (2 Kings 23:21-23).

Legacy of Josiah's Reaction

Josiah's reaction to the discovery of the Book of the Law set a standard for godly leadership and personal piety. His actions exemplified a sincere commitment to God's word and a willingness to lead his people in repentance and reform. The Bible commends Josiah, stating, "Before him there was no king like him who turned to the LORD with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his strength, according to all the Law of Moses, nor did any like him arise after him" (2 Kings 23:25).

Josiah's reign, though ultimately unable to avert the judgment prophesied against Judah, stands as a testament to the power of genuine repentance and the impact of a leader wholly devoted to God. His reaction to the Book of the Law remains a powerful example of faithfulness and obedience in the face of national apostasy.