The Book of the Law found in the temple
2 Kings 22–23:27; 2 Chronicles 34:8–35:19
While repairing the temple, the high priest found the Book of the Law; when it was read to Josiah he tore his clothes, renewed the covenant, and led the greatest Passover since the judges.
Hilkiah the high priest said to Shaphan the scribe, “I have found the book of the law in Yahweh’s house.” Hilkiah delivered the book to Shaphan, and he read it.
2 Kings 22:8 (World English Bible)
The book had been lost through generations of neglect. Hearing its warnings, Josiah sent to the prophetess Huldah, who confirmed that judgment would come, but not in Josiah's lifetime because his heart was tender.
Many scholars think the book was Deuteronomy, or included it.
Places
JerusalemSamariaBethelBeershebaHoly PlaceMount of OlivesKidronValley of HinnomTophethSecond QuarterGeba
Ancient witnesses outside the Bible
Historical sources, not Scripture.
- 1 Esdras 1:1–22 — Josiah’s Passover, as 1 Esdras retells it
Dating notes
Josiah's 18th year (2 Kings 22:3), 624 BC.