King living at the time of Divided Monarchy

Josiah

2 Kings 22–23:30; 2 Chronicles 34–35

King of Judah, who began to reign at eight and “did that which was right in Yahweh’s eyes, and walked in all the ways of David his father” (2 Kings 22:1–2). In his eighteenth year, while the temple was being repaired, the high priest Hilkiah found the book of the law, and when it was read to him, Josiah tore his clothes (2 Kings 22:3–11). He led the people in renewing the covenant, removed the idols and high places across Judah, even at Bethel, and kept a Passover like none since the judges (2 Kings 23:1–23). The record says, “There was no king like him before him, who turned to Yahweh with all his heart, and with all his soul, and with all his might, according to all the law of Moses” (2 Kings 23:25). He was killed at Megiddo in battle with Pharaoh Neco (2 Kings 23:29). He is named in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:10–11).

Scripture’s verdict: Did what was right in Yahweh’s eyes (2 Kings 22:2).

Family

Father

Amon

Mother

Jedidah

Wives

Hamutal, Zebidah, A wife of Josiah

Children

Jehoahaz of Judah, Jehoiakim, Zedekiah, Shallum

Show on the timelineFamily treeRead the 49 verses that name him