King · Old Testament
The Story of Josiah
Also: Yosia (Kiswahili)
King of Judah who found the Book of the Law and led a great reform.
Editorial text in English. Scripture is quoted from the version you choose; references stay the same in every version.
Introduction
Josiah became king at eight and did what was right in the LORD's eyes. When the Book of the Law was found in the temple, he tore his clothes, renewed the covenant and removed idolatry from the land. 2 Kings 22:1–22 Kings 22:8–132 Kings 23:1–25
He was killed at Megiddo in battle with Pharaoh Neco. 2 Kings 23:29–30
Told in: 2 Kings
Life at a glance
- Became king
- At eight years old 2 Kings 22:1
- Death
- At Megiddo 2 Kings 23:29
Only what Scripture records. Where the Bible is silent, nothing is filled in.
Follow the life of Josiah
Events in the order Scripture presents them. Expand an event to read its passage here, or open the chapter in the reader.
The Book of the Law found
Repairing the temple, Hilkiah finds the Book of the Law; Josiah humbles himself and the prophetess Huldah speaks the LORD's word.
More about this event
Parallel account: 2 Chronicles 34:1–33
Covenant renewal and reform
Josiah reads the book to the people, renews the covenant, removes idolatry and keeps the Passover.
More about this event
Parallel account: 2 Chronicles 35:1–19
Death at Megiddo
Josiah goes out against Pharaoh Neco and is killed at Megiddo.
Mentioned across the Bible
Later passages that recall, mention or interpret Josiah. These are not new events in the person’s lifetime.
Later recollection
Genealogy
Family and relationships
- JeremiahJeremiah began prophesying in his reignJeremiah 1:2
Books associated with Josiah
- 2 Kings Their story appears here
A book named after someone is not necessarily written by them. Authorship traditions are shown as traditions.
Themes and study
Study prompts written by BibleKenya editors. They are not Scripture.
ScriptureRepentance
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