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Commentary on 2 Kings 22 verses 11–20
We hear no more of the repairing of the temple: no doubt that good work went on well; but the book of the law that was found in it occupies us now, and well it may. It is not laid up in the king's cabinet as a piece of antiquity, a rarity to be admired, but it is read before the king. Those put the truest honour upon their Bibles that study them and converse with them daily, feed on that bread and walk by that light. Men of honour and business must look upon an acquaintance with God's word to be their best business and honour. Now here we have,
I. The impressions which the reading of the law made upon Josiah. He rent his clothes, as one ashamed of the sin of his people and afraid of the wrath of God; he had long thought the case of his kingdom bad, by reason of the idolatries and impieties that had been found among them, but he never thought it so bad as he perceived it to be by the book of the law now read to him. The rending of his clothes signified the rending of his heart for the dishonour done to God, and the ruin he saw coming upon his people.
II. The application he made to God hereupon: Go, enquire of the Lord for me, Kg2 22:13.
1.Two things we may suppose he desired to know: - "Enquire, (1.) What we shall do; what course we shall take to turn away God's wrath and prevent the judgments which our sins have deserved." Convictions of sin and wrath should put us upon this enquiry, What shall we do to be saved? Wherewithal shall we come before the Lord? If you will thus enquire, enquire quickly, before it be too late. (2.) "What we may expect and must provide for." He acknowledges, "Our fathers have not hearkened to the words of this book; if this be the rule of right, certainly our fathers have been much in the wrong." Now that the commandment came sin revived, and appeared sin; in the glass of the law, he saw the sins of his people more numerous and more heinous than he had before seen them, and more exceedingly sinful. He infers hence, "Certainly great is the wrath that is kindled against us; if this be the word of God, as no doubt it is, and he will be true to his word, as no doubt he will be, we are all undone. I never thought the threatenings of the law so severe, and the curses of the covenant so terrible, as now I find them to be; it is time to look about us if these be in force against us." Note, Those who are truly apprehensive of the weight of God's wrath cannot but be very solicitous to obtain his favour, and inquisitive how they may make their peace with him. Magistrates should enquire for their people, and study how to prevent the judgments of God that they see hanging over them.
2.This enquiry Josiah sent, (1.) By some of his great men, who are named Kg2 22:12, and again Kg2 22:14. Thus he put an honour upon the oracle, by employing those of the first rank to attend it. (2.) To Huldah the prophetess, Kg2 22:14. The spirit of prophecy, that inestimable treasure, was sometimes put not only into earthen vessels, but into the weaker vessels, that the excellency of the power might be of God. Miriam helped to lead Israel out of Egypt (Mic 6:4), Deborah judged them, and now Huldah instructed them in the mind of God, and her being a wife was no prejudice at all to her being a prophetess; marriage is honourable in all. It was a mercy to Jerusalem that when Bibles were scarce they had prophets, as afterwards, when prophecy ceased, that they had more Bibles; for God never leaves himself without witness, because he will leave sinners without excuse. Jeremiah and Zephaniah prophesied at this time, yet the king's messengers made Huldah their oracle, probably because her husband having a place at court (for he was keeper of the wardrobe) they had had more and longer acquaintance with her and greater assurances of her commission than of any other; they had, it is likely, consulted her upon other occasions, and had found that the word of God in her mouth was truth. She was near, for she dwelt at Jerusalem, in a place called Mishneh, the second rank of buildings from the royal palace. The Jews say that she prophesied among the women, the court ladies, being herself one of them, who it is probable had their apartments in that place. Happy the court that had a prophetess within the verge of it, and knew how to value her.
III. The answer he received from God to his enquiry. Huldah returned it not in the language of a courtier - "Pray give my humble service to his Majesty, and let him know that this is the message I have for him from the God of Israel;" but in the dialect of a prophetess, speaking from him before whom all stand upon the same level - Tell the man that sent you to me, Kg2 22:15. Even kings, though gods to us, are men to God, and shall so be dealt with; for with him there is no respect of persons.
1.She let him know what judgments God had in store for Judah and Jerusalem (Kg2 22:16, Kg2 22:17): My wrath shall be kindled against this place; and what is hell itself but the fire of God's wrath kindled against sinners? Observe, (1.) The degree and duration of it. It is so kindled that it shall not be quenched; the decree has gone forth; it is too late now to think of preventing it; the iniquity of Jerusalem shall not be purged with sacrifice or offering. Hell is unquenchable fire. (2.) The reference it has, [1.] To their sins: "They have committed them, as it were, with design, and on purpose to provoke me to anger. It is a fire of their own kindling; they would provoke me, and at length I am provoked." [2.] To God's threatenings: "The evil I bring is according to the words of the book which the king of Judah has read; the scripture is fulfilled in it. Those that would not be bound by the precept shall be bound by the penalty." God will be found no less terrible to impenitent sinners than his word makes him to be.
2.She let him know what mercy God had in store for him. (1.) Notice is taken of his great tenderness and concern for the glory of God and the welfare of his kingdom (Kg2 22:19): Thy heart was tender. Note, God will distinguish those that distinguish themselves. The generality of the people were hardened and their hearts unhumbled, so were the wicked kings his predecessors, but Josiah's heart was tender. He received the impressions of God's word, trembled at it and yielded to it; he was exceedingly grieved for the dishonour done to God by the sins of his fathers and of his people; he was afraid of the judgments of God, which he saw coming upon Jerusalem, and earnestly deprecated them. This is tenderness of heart, and thus he humbled himself before the Lord, and expressed these pious affections by rending his clothes and weeping before God, probably in his closet; but he that sees in secret says it was before him, and he heard it, and put every tear of tenderness into his bottle. Note, Those that most fear God's wrath are least likely to feel it. It should seem that those words (Lev 26:32) much affected Josiah, I will bring the land into desolation; for when he heard of the desolation and of the curse, that is, that God would forsake them and separate them to evil (for till it came to that they were neither desolate nor accursed), then he rent his clothes: the threatening went to his heart. (2.) A reprieve is granted till after his death (Kg2 22:20): I will gather thee to thy fathers. The saints then, no doubt, had a comfortable prospect of happiness on the other side death, else being gathered to their fathers would not have been so often made the matter of a promise as we find it was. Josiah could not prevail to prevent the judgment itself, but God promised him he should not live to see it, which (especially considering that he died in the midst of his days, before he was forty years old) would have been but a small reward for his eminent piety if there had not been another world in which he should be abundantly recompensed, Heb 11:16. When the righteous is taken away from the evil to come he enters into peace, Isa 57:1, Isa 57:2. This is promised to Josiah here: Thou shalt go to thy grave in peace, which refers not to the manner of his death (for he was killed in a battle), but to the time of it; it was a little before the captivity in Babylon, that great trouble, in comparison with which the rest were as nothing, so that he might be truly said to die in peace that did not live to share in that. He died in the love and favour of God, which secure such a peace as no circumstances of dying, no, not dying in the field of war, could alter the nature of, or break in upon.
We need not wonder that Huldah, the prophet and wife of Shallum, was consulted by Josiah, king of Judah, when the captivity was approaching and the wrath of the Lord was falling on Jerusalem: since it is the rule of Scripture, when holy men fail, to praise women to the reproach of men.
"She who dwells in Jerusalem in the second district." [2 Kings 22:14] What is said about Huldah the prophetess: "She who dwells in Jerusalem in the second district"; what this means is explained in the book of Chronicles, where it is written about the aforesaid King Hezekiah: "He also built, with great earnestness, all the wall that had been broken down, and reared up towers on it, and another wall outside" (2 Chron. 32). Zephaniah mentions this place, saying: "A voice of crying from the Fish Gate, and a wailing from the Second Quarter" (Zeph. 1). For which the old edition translated it as a proper name of the place, in Masena. Masena indeed means Second Quarter. Therefore, what is said about the prophetess dwelling in the Second, understand it as part of the second wall.
“They went to the prophet Huldah,” and not to Jeremiah, even though he was already well known as a prophet, probably because Jeremiah was not there at the moment, or maybe because this woman surpassed him with the power of her gift of prophecy.
The Second: A street, or part of the city, so called; in Hebrew, Massem.
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SUMMARY
Following the profound discovery of "the Book of the Law" during the Temple's restoration, King Josiah, deeply convicted by the nation's long-standing disobedience, immediately dispatched a high-level delegation to seek divine counsel. This pivotal verse records the delegation's urgent journey to Huldah, a respected prophetess residing in Jerusalem, highlighting the king's profound humility and the critical importance of seeking an authoritative word from the Lord through a recognized prophetic voice to understand the implications of the rediscovered Law for Judah's future.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is a crucial turning point within the narrative of King Josiah's righteous reign, specifically detailed in 2 Kings 22. The chapter begins by establishing Josiah's exemplary character and his early efforts to repair the Temple, which had fallen into disrepair and idolatrous misuse under previous kings. The immediate preceding verses recount the astonishing discovery of "the Book of the Law" by Hilkiah the high priest (2 Kings 22:8) and its subsequent reading to King Josiah by Shaphan the scribe. Josiah's visceral reaction—tearing his clothes in profound repentance and fear of God's wrath due to the nation's widespread and prolonged disobedience (2 Kings 22:11)—directly precipitates the sending of this delegation. The consultation with Huldah in this verse sets the stage for her authoritative prophetic oracle in the subsequent verses (2 Kings 22:15-20) which confirms the impending judgment but also offers a reprieve for Josiah due to his personal humility. This divine word then serves as the catalyst for Josiah's comprehensive religious reforms and the national covenant renewal detailed in 2 Kings 23.
Historical & Cultural Context: The events described in 2 Kings 22 unfold during the latter half of the 7th century BCE, a period of significant geopolitical flux for the Kingdom of Judah. Following the deeply idolatrous reigns of Manasseh and Amon, Josiah's ascension to the throne at a young age (eight years old) marked a potential spiritual turning point. The discovery of the Law, generally dated to around 622 BCE, occurred during a time when the dominant Assyrian Empire was in decline, creating a window of opportunity for Judah to reassert its independence and religious identity, moving away from the syncretism that had plagued it. Culturally, prophets served as crucial divine messengers in ancient Israel and Judah, often acting as God's conscience to the kings and the people. While prominent male prophets like Jeremiah and Zephaniah were active during Josiah's reign, the delegation's choice to consult Huldah, a woman, is highly significant. This decision underscores her widely recognized spiritual authority and integrity, demonstrating that her prophetic gift transcended conventional societal expectations regarding gender roles in public religious leadership. The mention of Shallum as "keeper of the wardrobe" indicates a royal or Temple administrative position, providing a social context for Huldah, though her prophetic office is clearly the primary reason for the delegation's visit.
Key Themes: The consultation with Huldah in this verse powerfully underscores several profound theological and narrative themes. Firstly, it highlights the paramount importance of divine revelation and the absolute authority of God's Word. The immediate response to the rediscovered Law was not human strategizing but a desperate search for God's interpretation and application, demonstrating a deep reverence for sacred texts as the ultimate guide. Secondly, it emphasizes sincere repentance and profound humility in the face of divine judgment. Josiah's tearing of his clothes (2 Kings 22:11) and his subsequent urgent inquiry exemplify a sincere desire to align the nation with God's will, standing in stark contrast to the defiance and apostasy of many previous kings. Thirdly, the narrative showcases God's sovereignty in choosing His messengers. The fact that a delegation of high-ranking men, sent directly by the king, sought counsel from Huldah, a prophetess, powerfully underscores God's impartiality and His freedom to use diverse individuals, regardless of their social standing or gender, to communicate His truth. This echoes earlier examples of female spiritual leaders like Miriam and Deborah. Finally, the event illustrates the critical role of prophetic guidance in national life, providing clarity and divine direction during times of spiritual awakening and crisis, ultimately leading to a profound covenant renewal for Judah, as vividly depicted in 2 Kings 23:1-3.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The passage employs several Literary Devices to convey its profound significance and the gravity of the moment. The most prominent is Enumeration or List, seen in the precise naming of the five high-ranking officials sent by King Josiah. This detailed list underscores the importance and official nature of the delegation, emphasizing that the king's inquiry was not a casual undertaking but a serious, state-sanctioned mission. The parenthetical identification of Huldah as "the wife of Shallum... keeper of the wardrobe" functions as Apposition or Descriptive Detail, grounding her within the social fabric of Jerusalem and providing context for her husband's role, though her prophetic office remains paramount. The narrative also employs powerful Emphasis through the very act of seeking Huldah. Given that prominent male prophets like Jeremiah and Zephaniah were active during this period, the specific choice of Huldah highlights her unique and recognized spiritual authority, implicitly emphasizing God's freedom to choose His messengers irrespective of conventional expectations. Finally, the entire scene functions as Foreshadowing, setting the stage for Huldah's subsequent prophecy, which will reveal God's impending judgment upon Judah but also His grace toward Josiah, thereby shaping the immediate future of the nation.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The consultation with Huldah in 2 Kings 22:14 profoundly illustrates God's sovereign choice in raising up and using individuals for His purposes, often in ways that defy human expectations and societal norms. It underscores the vital necessity of seeking divine counsel, especially when confronted with the convicting power of God's Word. Josiah's immediate response to the rediscovered Law was not to implement reforms based on human wisdom, but to humbly inquire of the Lord through a trusted prophetic voice. This demonstrates a profound understanding that true national and spiritual renewal must be rooted in God's revealed will and guided by His Spirit. Huldah's acceptance by such a high-level delegation also powerfully affirms the principle that spiritual authority and genuine divine gifting are not limited by gender or social standing, but are bestowed by God for the edification and guidance of His people, breaking down human-imposed barriers to divine communication.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The narrative of Josiah's delegation seeking Huldah offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers and leaders. It challenges us to cultivate a deep reverence for God's Word, allowing it to convict us profoundly and prompt a sincere, humble search for His will, rather than relying on our own understanding, conventional wisdom, or societal pressures. Just as Josiah, a powerful king, humbled himself to seek divine counsel through a prophetess, we are called to prioritize God's voice above all others, recognizing that true wisdom and direction come from Him alone. This passage also encourages us to recognize, affirm, and celebrate God's diverse gifting within the body of Christ, valuing all those whom He empowers to speak His truth, regardless of their background, gender, or social status. Our focus should always be on the fidelity of the message to Scripture and its divine origin, rather than on the messenger's external characteristics or our preconceived notions. In a world often driven by human agendas, superficial appearances, and a diminishing regard for divine authority, this account calls us to humility, discernment, and an unwavering commitment to seeking and obeying God's revealed truth.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did King Josiah's delegation go to Huldah, a prophetess, when male prophets like Jeremiah and Zephaniah were active at the time?
Answer: While Jeremiah and Zephaniah were indeed active during Josiah's reign, the biblical text does not explicitly state the precise reason Huldah was chosen over them. Several factors may have contributed to this decision:
What was "the college" where Huldah dwelt?
Answer: The King James Version translation "the college" can be misleading, as it does not refer to an academic institution in the modern sense. The Hebrew term mišneh (מִשְׁנֶה, H4932) literally means "second" or "double." In the context of Jerusalem, it most likely refers to the "Second Quarter" or "Second City" of Jerusalem. This was probably a newer or expanded district of the city, perhaps located to the north or northwest of the original city and the Temple Mount. It could have been a residential area, possibly associated with religious or administrative functions, but it was a distinct geographical area within Jerusalem. Her dwelling there simply indicates her known residence within the capital city, making her accessible for consultation by the king's delegation.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of Josiah's delegation seeking Huldah's divine counsel, prompted by the rediscovered Law, profoundly foreshadows the ultimate revelation of God's will and the perfect fulfillment of the Law in Jesus Christ. The "Book of the Law" revealed Judah's sin and the impending judgment, creating a desperate need for a divine word—a need that Huldah, as a prophetess, temporarily met. Yet, the Law itself, as Romans 3:20 teaches, "brings knowledge of sin." It points to humanity's inherent inability to perfectly obey God and our desperate need for a Savior. Christ is the ultimate "Word of God" made flesh (John 1:14), the supreme Prophet who perfectly reveals God's will and character (Hebrews 1:1-2). Unlike Huldah, who delivered a message, Jesus is the message—the living embodiment of God's truth, grace, and salvation. His life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection fulfill the righteous demands of the Law (Matthew 5:17) and provide the perfect righteousness that humanity utterly lacks. Just as Josiah's humility in seeking God's word led to national repentance and a temporary reprieve from judgment, so too, our humble turning to Christ, the ultimate source of all wisdom and salvation (Colossians 2:3), brings about profound personal and spiritual transformation, ushering us into a new and superior covenant of grace (Hebrews 8:6).