2 Chronicles 34:23

KJV

And she answered them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Tell ye the man that sent you to me,

KJV (with Strong's)

And she answered {H559} them, Thus saith {H559} the LORD {H3068} God {H430} of Israel {H3478}, Tell {H559} ye the man {H376} that sent {H7971} you to me,

Complete Jewish Bible

She told them, "ADONAI the God of Isra'el says to tell the man who sent you to me

Berean Standard Bible

And Huldah said to them, “This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘Tell the man who sent you

American Standard Version

And she said unto them, Thus saith Jehovah, the God of Israel: Tell ye the man that sent you unto me,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Chronicles 34:23 records the immediate and authoritative response of Huldah the prophetess to King Josiah's delegation, declaring her words to be a direct revelation from "the LORD God of Israel." This pivotal verse establishes the divine origin and infallible truth of the message that follows, underscoring God's responsiveness to sincere inquiry and the crucial role of His chosen messengers in guiding His people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within the narrative of King Josiah's reign, specifically following his profound encounter with the newly discovered Book of the Law. Earlier in the chapter, Josiah, a righteous king who began seeking God at a young age, initiated widespread reforms to purge idolatry from Judah and repair the Temple ([2 Chronicles 34:3-7](/2_chronicles/34-3 "2 Chronicles 34:3-7 - Josiah's Early Reforms")). During these renovations, Hilkiah the high priest discovered "the Book of the Law of the LORD given by Moses" ([2 Chronicles 34:14](/2_chronicles/34-14 "2 Chronicles 34:14 - Discovery of the Book of the Law")). Upon hearing its words, particularly the curses pronounced against disobedience, Josiah was overwhelmed with conviction, tearing his clothes and humbling himself before God ([2 Chronicles 34:19](/2_chronicles/34-19 "2 Chronicles 34:19 - Josiah's Repentance")). In his distress and desire to understand God's will for himself and the nation, he sent a high-level delegation to inquire of the LORD. This verse marks the beginning of Huldah's divinely inspired prophecy, which directly addresses Josiah's profound repentance and the nation's impending judgment.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Josiah reigned in Judah during a period of significant geopolitical flux, as the Assyrian Empire, which had long dominated the Near East, was in decline. This created a window of opportunity for Judah to reassert its religious and political independence. The discovery of the Book of the Law (widely believed to be a form of Deuteronomy) was a monumental event, as it brought the covenant stipulations and their consequences back into sharp focus after generations of neglect and idolatry. In ancient Israel, prophets and prophetesses served as God's direct spokespersons, delivering divine messages to kings and the people. Huldah's prominence, as a woman consulted by the king's top officials (including the high priest and royal secretary), highlights that God's choice of messenger transcended societal gender norms, valuing faithfulness and divine anointing above all else. Her residence "in the college" (or "second quarter") of Jerusalem suggests a recognized status within the prophetic community.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within 2 Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Authority and Revelation**, as Huldah's opening declaration, "Thus saith the LORD God of Israel," unequivocally establishes the source of her message as God Himself, not human wisdom. This highlights the absolute necessity of divine truth for guiding human affairs and the nation's destiny. Secondly, it exemplifies **God's Responsiveness to Sincere Inquiry and Repentance**. Josiah's deep humility and earnest seeking of God's will, prompted by the Law's revelation, directly led to this divine communication. God demonstrates His readiness to engage with those who genuinely turn to Him in contrition, as seen in Josiah's response to the Law in [2 Chronicles 34:19](/2_chronicles/34-19 "2 Chronicles 34:19 - Josiah's Humility"). Finally, the verse illuminates **The Enduring Role of the Prophet/Prophetess** as a conduit for God's word. Huldah, though perhaps less famous than other prophets, was chosen by God for this critical moment, demonstrating God's sovereign freedom in selecting His messengers and the vital importance of heeding prophetic counsel, even in the presence of the written Law.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yahweh'_):** This is the sacred, covenantal name of God, often rendered "LORD" in English translations, particularly when all caps are used. It signifies God's self-existence, eternal nature, and His personal, relational commitment to His people, Israel. Its use here emphasizes that the message is from the God who has bound Himself to Israel through covenant, and whose character is consistent with His revealed will in the Law.
* **God (Hebrew, _Elohim'_):** This is the generic Hebrew term for God, often used in a plural form but with a singular meaning when referring to the one true God. It emphasizes God's power, sovereignty, and creative might. When combined with "Yahweh," as "the LORD God," it forms a powerful and comprehensive title that underscores both God's covenant faithfulness and His universal dominion.
* **Prophetess (Hebrew, _nəḇi’āh'_):** While not explicitly in the verse itself, the context identifies Huldah as a prophetess. This term denotes a woman called by God to be a spokesperson for Him, receiving and delivering divine messages. Her recognition and the delegation's willingness to seek her out highlight the legitimate and respected role of female prophets in ancient Israel, such as Miriam ([Exodus 15:20](/exodus/15-20 "Exodus 15:20 - Miriam the Prophetess")), Deborah ([Judges 4:4](/judges/4-4 "Judges 4:4 - Deborah the Prophetess")), and Anna ([Luke 2:36](/luke/2-36 "Luke 2:36 - Anna the Prophetess")).

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And she answered them,"**: This opening clause immediately establishes Huldah's direct engagement with the delegation sent by King Josiah. It signifies that her response is not a spontaneous utterance but a deliberate, divinely-prompted answer to a specific inquiry. The delegation's seeking of a prophet or prophetess underscores their understanding that God's will needed to be discerned through a recognized spiritual authority.
* **"Thus saith the LORD God of Israel,"**: This is a classic and powerful prophetic formula, known as a "messenger formula." It serves as an unequivocal declaration that the words that follow are not Huldah's own opinions, insights, or interpretations, but a direct, verbatim message from the Almighty God. The full title "the LORD God of Israel" emphasizes both God's covenant relationship with His people (LORD/Yahweh) and His universal sovereignty (God/Elohim), specifically in relation to the nation of Israel. This formula stamps the message with absolute divine authority and infallibility.
* **"Tell ye the man that sent you to me,"**: This directive specifies the recipient of the divine message: King Josiah. The phrasing "the man that sent you to me" is a formal way of referring to the king, maintaining a respectful distance while clearly identifying the intended audience. It highlights that Huldah is merely the conduit; the message is from God, through her, directly to Josiah, addressing his specific inquiry regarding the newly discovered Book of the Law and its implications.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in 2 Chronicles 34:23 is **Formulaic Language**, specifically the **Prophetic Messenger Formula** ("Thus saith the LORD God of Israel"). This established phrase functions as a powerful **Authoritative Declaration**, immediately signaling to the audience that the subsequent words are not human counsel but divine revelation. It acts as a literary marker, distinguishing God's direct speech from the narrative or human dialogue. This formula lends immense weight and credibility to Huldah's words, underscoring the absolute truth and binding nature of the prophecy she is about to deliver. It also employs **Direct Address**, as God, through Huldah, directly speaks to "the man that sent you to me," creating an immediate and personal connection between the divine message and Josiah's earnest inquiry.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Chronicles 34:23 profoundly illustrates God's active engagement with humanity, particularly in response to sincere seeking and repentance. It affirms that God is not silent but desires to communicate His will, especially when His people are in crisis or seeking direction. The verse highlights the enduring principle that divine revelation, whether through prophets or, preeminently, through Scripture, is the authoritative guide for life and national destiny. Josiah's humility in seeking God's word, even through a prophetess, underscores the importance of a contrite spirit as a prerequisite for hearing and obeying God. This moment is a testament to God's faithfulness to His covenant, even in the face of widespread national apostasy, demonstrating His readiness to extend grace and guidance to those who turn back to Him.

* [Deuteronomy 28:15](/deuteronomy/28-15 "Deuteronomy 28:15 - Curses for Disobedience")
* [Jeremiah 1:5](/jeremiah/1-5 "Jeremiah 1:5 - God's Call to Jeremiah")
* [Hebrews 1:1](/hebrews/1-1 "Hebrews 1:1 - God's Revelation Through Prophets and Son")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The scene in 2 Chronicles 34:23 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. Like Josiah, we are often confronted with the profound truth of God's Word, which can expose our sin and highlight our distance from His perfect will. Our response should mirror Josiah's: not despair, but humble repentance and an earnest desire to understand and obey. This verse reminds us that God is always willing to speak to those who genuinely seek Him with a contrite heart. While we no longer seek prophets in the same way, God's authoritative voice is supremely found in the Bible, His inspired and infallible Word, which remains our primary source of divine guidance, correction, and instruction for righteousness. We are called to diligently study it, allow it to convict us, and then humbly inquire of the Lord through prayer and the wisdom of godly counsel, trusting that He will illuminate our path and reveal His purposes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Josiah's response to the Book of the Law challenge my own attitude towards God's Word?**
* **In what areas of my life am I actively seeking God's authoritative word, rather than relying on my own understanding or worldly wisdom?**
* **What does Huldah's role teach me about God's sovereignty in choosing His messengers, and how might I be open to hearing His voice through unexpected channels?**
* **How can I cultivate a more humble and repentant heart, like Josiah's, that is receptive to God's conviction and guidance?**

### FAQ
**Who was Huldah, and why was she chosen to deliver this crucial message to King Josiah?**

Answer:Huldah was a prophetess living in Jerusalem during the reign of King Josiah. While less prominent in biblical history than figures like Jeremiah or Isaiah, her inclusion in this pivotal narrative underscores her significant standing and divine anointing. She was chosen because she was a recognized and respected conduit for God's word, known for her faithfulness and accurate prophecy. The delegation, which included the high priest Hilkiah and the royal secretary Shaphan, sought her out specifically to "inquire of the LORD" ([2 Chronicles 34:21](/2_chronicles/34-21 "2 Chronicles 34:21 - Josiah's Inquiry")) regarding the newly discovered Book of the Law. Her selection demonstrates God's sovereignty in choosing His messengers, regardless of societal expectations or gender, emphasizing that divine authority rests solely on God's call and anointing.

**What is the significance of the phrase "Thus saith the LORD God of Israel"?**

Answer:This phrase, "Thus saith the LORD God of Israel," is a classic and powerful "messenger formula" used throughout the Old Testament by prophets. Its significance is threefold: Firstly, it unequivocally declares the divine origin of the message, leaving no doubt that the words are God's own, not the prophet's personal opinion or interpretation. Secondly, it establishes the absolute authority and infallibility of the message, demanding attention and obedience. Thirdly, the specific title "the LORD God of Israel" emphasizes God's covenant relationship with His people (Yahweh, the LORD) and His supreme sovereignty (Elohim, God) over them, reminding both the prophet and the audience of the specific covenant obligations and promises that are at stake. It functions as a divine seal, authenticating the prophecy as direct revelation from the Almighty.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
2 Chronicles 34:23, with its emphasis on divine revelation through a chosen messenger in response to human inquiry, profoundly foreshadows the ultimate revelation of God in Jesus Christ. Huldah, as a prophetess, served as a temporary conduit for God's word, pointing to the greater Prophet to come. In the New Testament, we learn that "God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son" ([Hebrews 1:1-2](/hebrews/1-1 "Hebrews 1:1-2 - God Speaks Through His Son")). Jesus is not merely a messenger; He is the message itself, the very "Word made flesh" ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")), in whom "dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily" ([Colossians 2:9](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - Fullness of Deity in Christ")). Josiah's humble seeking of God's will finds its ultimate answer in Christ, who declares, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, Truth, and Life")). The Law that convicted Josiah is perfectly fulfilled in Christ, who came "not to destroy the Law or the Prophets... but to fulfill them" ([Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfills the Law")). Thus, Huldah's authoritative declaration, "Thus saith the LORD God of Israel," finds its eternal echo and ultimate embodiment in the person and work of Jesus, who is the complete and final revelation of God to humanity.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Jeremiah 37:7

Thus saith the LORD, the God of Israel; Thus shall ye say to the king of Judah, that sent you unto me to enquire of me; Behold, Pharaoh's army, which is come forth to help you, shall return to Egypt into their own land.

Jeremiah 37:10

For though ye had smitten the whole army of the Chaldeans that fight against you, and there remained [but] wounded men among them, [yet] should they rise up every man in his tent, and burn this city with fire.

Jeremiah 21:3

Then said Jeremiah unto them, Thus shall ye say to Zedekiah:

Jeremiah 21:7

And afterward, saith the LORD, I will deliver Zedekiah king of Judah, and his servants, and the people, and such as are left in this city from the pestilence, from the sword, and from the famine, into the hand of Nebuchadrezzar king of Babylon, and into the hand of their enemies, and into the hand of those that seek their life: and he shall smite them with the edge of the sword; he shall not spare them, neither have pity, nor have mercy.

2 Kings 22:15

And she said unto them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Tell the man that sent you to me,

2 Kings 22:20

Behold therefore, I will gather thee unto thy fathers, and thou shalt be gathered into thy grave in peace; and thine eyes shall not see all the evil which I will bring upon this place. And they brought the king word again.