The Restoration of the Passover is a significant event in the history of Israel, marking a return to the covenantal practices commanded by God through Moses. The Passover, instituted in Exodus 12, commemorates the Israelites' deliverance from Egyptian bondage. Over time, due to periods of apostasy and neglect, the observance of the Passover was abandoned or improperly conducted. The restoration of this sacred feast is recorded during the reigns of several kings of Judah, most notably Hezekiah and Josiah, who sought to bring the nation back to faithful adherence to the Law of Moses.

Hezekiah's Restoration

King Hezekiah, who reigned in Judah from approximately 715 to 686 BC, is noted for his religious reforms, which included the restoration of the Passover. In 2 Chronicles 30, Hezekiah invites all Israel and Judah to celebrate the Passover in Jerusalem, even extending the invitation to the remnant of the northern kingdom. The text states, "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" (2 Chronicles 30:2-3). This decision to hold the Passover in the second month was in accordance with the provision in Numbers 9:10-11 for those who were ceremonially unclean or on a distant journey.

Hezekiah's Passover was marked by a spirit of repentance and unity, as many from the northern tribes humbled themselves and came to Jerusalem. The celebration was extended for an additional seven days due to the overwhelming joy and enthusiasm of the people (2 Chronicles 30:23). This event is significant as it demonstrates a collective return to the worship of Yahweh and a desire to restore the covenant relationship with God.

Josiah's Restoration

Another notable restoration of the Passover occurred during the reign of King Josiah, who ruled from approximately 640 to 609 BC. Josiah's reforms are detailed in 2 Kings 22-23 and 2 Chronicles 34-35. After the discovery of the Book of the Law in the temple, Josiah initiated a series of religious reforms, including the removal of idolatrous practices and the repair of the temple.

2 Chronicles 35:1-19 describes Josiah's observance of the Passover, which was conducted with great attention to the details prescribed in the Law of Moses. The text highlights the unprecedented nature of this celebration: "No Passover like it had been observed in Israel since the days of Samuel the prophet. None of the kings of Israel had ever celebrated such a Passover as Josiah did with the priests, the Levites, all Judah and Israel who were present, and the people of Jerusalem" (2 Chronicles 35:18). Josiah's Passover is characterized by its adherence to the scriptural mandates and the participation of all the people, reflecting a national revival and commitment to the covenant.

Theological Significance

The restoration of the Passover under Hezekiah and Josiah underscores the importance of covenant fidelity and the centrality of worship in the life of Israel. These restorations were not merely ritualistic but were accompanied by a genuine return to God, marked by repentance and a desire to obey His commandments. The Passover, as a memorial of deliverance, served as a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness and the necessity of Israel's obedience to His covenant.

In the broader biblical narrative, the restoration of the Passover points to the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, whose sacrifice fulfills the typology of the Passover lamb. The New Testament presents Christ's atoning work as the true and final Passover, offering redemption and restoration to all who believe (1 Corinthians 5:7). Thus, the restoration of the Passover in the Old Testament foreshadows the greater restoration accomplished through Christ, inviting believers to partake in the new covenant through His blood.