Josiah Finds the Book of the Law
During the reign of King Josiah, repairs to the temple in Jerusalem led to the discovery of the long-neglected Book of the Law by the high priest Hilkiah. When the book was read to the king, he responded with deep repentance, tearing his clothes upon realizing how far Judah had strayed from God's commands. Josiah then sought guidance from the prophetess Huldah and launched sweeping reforms across the land, purging idolatry and restoring proper worship practices. This rediscovery highlighted the central role of Scripture in renewing the covenant relationship between God and His people, influencing the spiritual direction of the nation in its final years before exile.
Did You Know?
When the book was read to the king, he responded with deep repentance, tearing his clothes upon realizing how far Judah had strayed from God's commands.
Josiah then sought guidance from the prophetess Huldah and launched sweeping reforms across the land, purging idolatry and restoring proper worship practices.
This event is dated to approximately c. 622 BC in biblical chronology.
This took place at or near Jerusalem.
Key Passage
Josiah Finds the Book of the Law
2 Kings 22:8-13
8nd Hilkiah the high priest said unto Shaphan the scribe, I have found the book of the law in the house of the LORD. And Hilkiah gave the book to Shaphan, and he read it.
Meanwhile in the World
Assyria becomes the world's first great empire, conquering from Egypt to Persia. Greece emerges from its Dark Age - the Olympic Games begin (776 BC). Rome is founded (753 BC). Carthage is established. This is the height of Assyrian military power and the rise of Greek city-states.