Scripture Stories
King Josiah


“King Josiah,” Old Testament Stories (2022)

“King Josiah,” Old Testament Stories

2 Kings 22; 2 Chronicles 34–35

1:36

King Josiah

A quest to obey the Lord’s commandments

young king Josiah

Josiah was eight years old when he was made king of Judah. He was a good king who loved the Lord. He wanted to help his people, the Israelites, obey the Lord and stop worshipping idols. When he was older, he and his people started to repair the temple and make it beautiful again.

2 Kings 22:1–2; 2 Chronicles 34:3–7

Hilkiah finding scroll in temple ruins

While the people were working on the temple, Hilkiah the high priest found the book of the law, a scroll that contained the scriptures.

2 Kings 22:3–9

sad King Josiah listening to the book of the law

A servant read the book to Josiah. Josiah heard the words and was sad because his people did not obey the Lord. He tore his clothes to show he was sad.

2 Kings 22:10–13, 19

Josiah’s servants talking to Huldah

He told Hilkiah to ask the Lord what they should do. Hilkiah and the king’s servants visited Huldah. She was a prophetess, a faithful leader who was inspired by God. She said the Lord was happy with Josiah because he was helping the people obey. The Lord promised that King Josiah would live in peace.

2 Kings 22:12–20

King Josiah at Passover dinner

King Josiah wanted his people to keep their promises to the Lord. He asked them to celebrate the Passover to help them remember how the Lord freed the Israelites long ago in Egypt.

2 Chronicles 35:1–19