The history of Jerusalem is marked by significant periods of religious and social reform, often initiated by its kings and leaders in response to spiritual decline and idolatry. These reforms were aimed at restoring the worship of Yahweh and aligning the nation with the covenantal laws given to Israel.

1. King Asa's Reforms

King Asa of Judah, who reigned from approximately 911 to 870 BC, was one of the early reformers. Asa's reforms are recorded in 1 Kings 15:11-15 and 2 Chronicles 14-15. Asa "did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, as his father David had done" (1 Kings 15:11). He removed the pagan altars and high places, shattered the sacred pillars, and cut down the Asherah poles. Asa also commanded Judah to seek the LORD and to observe the law and commandments. His reforms were characterized by a return to the worship of Yahweh and a rejection of idolatry.

2. King Jehoshaphat's Reforms

Jehoshaphat, the son of Asa, continued his father's work of reform. His reign is noted for judicial and religious reforms, as detailed in 2 Chronicles 17 and 19. Jehoshaphat strengthened the kingdom by removing high places and Asherah poles from Judah. He sent officials, Levites, and priests throughout the land to teach the Book of the Law of the LORD, emphasizing the importance of knowing and following God's commandments.

3. King Hezekiah's Reforms

Hezekiah, who reigned from approximately 715 to 686 BC, is renowned for his extensive religious reforms. His efforts are chronicled in 2 Kings 18-20 and 2 Chronicles 29-31. Hezekiah "did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father David had done" (2 Kings 18:3). He reopened the doors of the temple, which had been closed by his father Ahaz, and repaired them. Hezekiah removed the high places, smashed the sacred stones, and cut down the Asherah poles. He also broke into pieces the bronze serpent that Moses had made, because the Israelites had been burning incense to it. Hezekiah's reforms included a renewed observance of the Passover and a call for all Israel to return to the LORD.

4. King Josiah's Reforms

Josiah, reigning from approximately 640 to 609 BC, is perhaps the most famous reformer in Jerusalem's history. His reforms are detailed in 2 Kings 22-23 and 2 Chronicles 34-35. Josiah began seeking the LORD in the eighth year of his reign and initiated reforms in the twelfth year. He ordered the repair of the temple, during which the Book of the Law was found. Upon hearing the words of the Law, Josiah tore his clothes in distress and sought to renew the covenant with the LORD. He removed all the detestable idols from the land, destroyed the high places, and reinstituted the Passover. Josiah's reforms were comprehensive, affecting religious practices, temple worship, and national identity.

5. Nehemiah's Reforms

Following the Babylonian exile, Nehemiah played a crucial role in the physical and spiritual restoration of Jerusalem. His reforms are recorded in the Book of Nehemiah. Nehemiah rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem, providing security and a sense of identity for the returned exiles. He also addressed social injustices, such as the exploitation of the poor, and enforced the observance of the Sabbath. Nehemiah, along with Ezra, led the people in renewing their covenant with God, emphasizing adherence to the Law and the separation from foreign influences.

These periods of reform in Jerusalem highlight the ongoing struggle to maintain faithfulness to the covenant with God amidst external pressures and internal apostasy. Each reformer sought to restore true worship and obedience to the LORD, demonstrating the enduring importance of spiritual renewal in the life of the nation.