Religious reforms in the Bible refer to the efforts made by leaders to restore true worship and adherence to God's commandments among the people of Israel and Judah. These reforms often occurred in response to periods of idolatry, moral decay, and neglect of the covenantal laws given by God. Key figures in the Bible led significant religious reforms, seeking to bring the nation back to a faithful relationship with God.

1. Moses and the Covenant at Sinai

Moses is one of the earliest reformers, leading the Israelites out of Egypt and receiving the Law at Mount Sinai. This event established the foundation for Israel's religious and social life. The giving of the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17) and the subsequent laws were intended to set Israel apart as a holy nation. Moses' leadership was crucial in guiding the people to adhere to these divine statutes.

2. Joshua's Covenant Renewal

After entering the Promised Land, Joshua called the people to renew their covenant with God. In Joshua 24:14-15 , he exhorted the Israelites: "Now, therefore, fear the LORD and serve Him in sincerity and truth. Cast aside the gods your fathers worshiped beyond the Euphrates and in Egypt, and serve the LORD." Joshua's leadership emphasized the importance of exclusive devotion to Yahweh.

3. Samuel and the Establishment of Monarchy

Samuel, the last judge of Israel, played a pivotal role in transitioning Israel from a theocracy to a monarchy. He called the people to repentance and renewal of their commitment to God. In 1 Samuel 7:3 , Samuel instructed, "If you are returning to the LORD with all your hearts, then rid yourselves of the foreign gods and the Ashtoreths and commit yourselves to the LORD and serve Him only."

4. King Asa's Reforms

King Asa of Judah initiated significant reforms to eradicate idolatry and restore worship of the LORD. 2 Chronicles 14:2-5 records Asa's actions: "Asa did what was good and right in the eyes of the LORD his God. He removed the foreign altars and high places, shattered the sacred pillars, and chopped down the Asherah poles. He commanded Judah to seek the LORD, the God of their fathers, and to observe the law and the commandment."

5. King Hezekiah's Reforms

Hezekiah, known for his faithfulness, enacted comprehensive reforms to restore temple worship and eliminate idolatry. 2 Kings 18:4-6 describes his efforts: "He removed the high places, shattered the sacred pillars, and cut down the Asherah poles. He also broke into pieces the bronze serpent that Moses had made, for up to that time the Israelites had burned incense to it. Hezekiah trusted in the LORD, the God of Israel."

6. King Josiah's Reforms

Josiah's reforms were among the most extensive, sparked by the discovery of the Book of the Law in the temple. 2 Kings 23:25 states, "Neither before nor after Josiah was there a king like him who turned to the LORD as he did—with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his strength, in accordance with all the Law of Moses." Josiah's reforms included purging the land of idolatry and reinstating the Passover celebration.

7. Ezra and Nehemiah's Reforms

Following the Babylonian exile, Ezra and Nehemiah led efforts to restore the spiritual and communal life of the returned exiles. Ezra focused on teaching the Law and addressing intermarriage with foreign nations (Ezra 9-10), while Nehemiah rebuilt Jerusalem's walls and reinstituted religious practices (Nehemiah 8-10). Nehemiah 8:8 highlights their dedication: "They read from the Book of the Law of God, translating and giving the meaning so that the people could understand what was being read."

These reforms underscore the recurring need for spiritual renewal and adherence to God's commandments throughout Israel's history. They serve as reminders of the importance of faithfulness and the consequences of turning away from divine instruction.