2 Kings 23:24

KJV

Moreover the [workers with] familiar spirits, and the wizards, and the images, and the idols, and all the abominations that were spied in the land of Judah and in Jerusalem, did Josiah put away, that he might perform the words of the law which were written in the book that Hilkiah the priest found in the house of the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

Moreover the workers with familiar spirits {H178}, and the wizards {H3049}, and the images {H8655}, and the idols {H1544}, and all the abominations {H8251} that were spied {H7200} in the land {H776} of Judah {H3063} and in Jerusalem {H3389}, did Josiah {H2977} put away {H1197}, that he might perform {H6965} the words {H1697} of the law {H8451} which were written {H3789} in the book {H5612} that Hilkiah {H2518} the priest {H3548} found {H4672} in the house {H1004} of the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Yoshiyahu got rid of the mediums and the people using spirit guides, as well as the household gods, the idols and all the disgusting things spotted anywhere in Y'hudah and Yerushalayim. He did this in order to establish the words of the Torah written in the scroll Hilkiyahu the cohen had found in the house of ADONAI.

Berean Standard Bible

Furthermore, Josiah removed the mediums and spiritists, the household gods and idols, and all the abominations that were seen in the land of Judah and in Jerusalem. He did this to carry out the words of the law written in the book that Hilkiah the priest had found in the house of the LORD.

American Standard Version

Moreover them that had familiar spirits, and the wizards, and the teraphim, and the idols, and all the abominations that were seen in the land of Judah and in Jerusalem, did Josiah put away, that he might confirm the words of the law which were written in the book that Hilkiah the priest found in the house of Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Kings 23:24 powerfully encapsulates the culmination of King Josiah's sweeping religious reforms in Judah and Jerusalem, detailing his zealous eradication of all forms of pagan worship and occult practices. This decisive action was a direct and profound response to the rediscovery of the Book of the Law in the temple, demonstrating Josiah's unwavering commitment to restore the nation's covenant fidelity and perform the very words of God's revealed will.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the detailed account of King Josiah's extensive religious reforms, which dominate [2 Kings 23](/2_kings/23 "2 Kings 23 - Josiah's Reforms and Covenant Renewal"). The preceding chapter, [2 Kings 22](/2_kings/22 "2 Kings 22 - The Discovery of the Book of the Law"), describes the pivotal moment when Hilkiah the high priest discovered the Book of the Law during temple repairs. This discovery profoundly impacted Josiah, leading him to tear his clothes in repentance and seek the LORD through the prophetess Huldah, who confirmed impending judgment but promised peace for Josiah due to his humble response ([2 Kings 22:11-20](/2_kings/22-11 "2 Kings 22:11-20 - Josiah's Repentance and Huldah's Prophecy")). Chapter 23 then details Josiah's immediate and comprehensive actions: a covenant renewal ceremony with the people ([2 Kings 23:1-3](/2_kings/23-1 "2 Kings 23:1-3 - Josiah's Covenant Renewal")), followed by a systematic purge of all idolatrous elements from the temple, Jerusalem, and the entire land of Judah, even extending into the former northern kingdom. Verse [2 Kings 23:24](/2_kings/23-24 "2 Kings 23:24 - Josiah's Eradication of Occult Practices") serves as a summary statement of the thoroughness of Josiah's cleansing, specifically targeting occult practices and various forms of idolatry, emphasizing his motivation to obey the rediscovered Law.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Josiah's reign (640-609 BC) followed decades of intense apostasy under his grandfather Manasseh (697-642 BC) and father Amon (642-640 BC). Manasseh, in particular, had systematically reintroduced and promoted every form of pagan worship, including Baal and Asherah cults, astral worship, child sacrifice in the Valley of Hinnom, and widespread divination and sorcery ([2 Kings 21:1-9](/2_kings/21-1 "2 Kings 21:1-9 - Manasseh's Idolatry")). These practices were deeply entrenched in the land of Judah and Jerusalem, permeating religious, social, and even domestic life. The terms "familiar spirits" (necromancy) and "wizards" (divination) refer to practices strictly forbidden by the Mosaic Law ([Deuteronomy 18:9-12](/deuteronomy/18-9 "Deuteronomy 18:9-12 - Forbidden Practices")). "Images" (teraphim) could be household idols or cultic figurines used for divination, while "idols" (gillulim) is a derogatory term for pagan deities. Josiah's reforms thus represent a radical break from generations of syncretism and a desperate attempt to avert the divine judgment that Huldah's prophecy indicated was imminent due to the nation's persistent unfaithfulness.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within [2 Kings](/2_kings "2 Kings - The History of the Kings of Israel and Judah") and the broader Deuteronomistic History. First, it highlights the theme of **Radical Obedience to God's Law**. Josiah's actions were not superficial but a profound, Spirit-driven response to God's revealed will, underscoring the transformative power of the Word when heard and applied ([Psalm 119:105](/psalm/119-105 "Psalm 119:105 - God's Word as a Lamp")). Second, it exemplifies the **Eradication of Idolatry and Occultism**, demonstrating God's absolute demand for exclusive worship and His abhorrence of practices that defile the land and lead people away from Him ([Exodus 20:3-5](/exodus/20-3 "Exodus 20:3-5 - The First and Second Commandments")). Third, the verse speaks to the theme of **Spiritual Cleansing and Purity**, as Josiah sought to purge "all the abominations" from the land, reflecting a desperate attempt to restore covenant fidelity and avert divine judgment, which was a recurring consequence of apostasy in Israel's history ([Leviticus 18:24-28](/leviticus/18-24 "Leviticus 18:24-28 - Defilement of the Land")). Finally, it underscores the **Transformative Power of God's Word**, as the discovery of the Law book served as the catalyst for this monumental national transformation, illustrating that true revival begins with a renewed encounter with and submission to divine truth ([Isaiah 55:11](/isaiah/55-11 "Isaiah 55:11 - God's Word Will Not Return Empty")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Familiar Spirits (Hebrew, _'ōbōt_):** This term refers to mediums or necromancers who claimed to consult the dead, often by evoking spirits from the underworld. The practice was a direct violation of God's command against seeking guidance from sources other than Him, as it involved forbidden communication with the dead and often demonic influence ([Leviticus 19:31](/leviticus/19-31 "Leviticus 19:31 - Do Not Turn to Mediums")). Josiah's removal of these indicates a comprehensive purge of all forms of illicit spiritual consultation.
* **Wizards (Hebrew, _yidde'ōnîm_):** Derived from a root meaning "to know," these were individuals who claimed special knowledge or insight, often through magical arts, divination, or sorcery. They were distinct from familiar spirits but often associated with similar occult practices, offering forbidden alternatives to seeking the LORD's counsel ([Deuteronomy 18:10-12](/deuteronomy/18-10 "Deuteronomy 18:10-12 - Abominable Practices")).
* **Abominations (Hebrew, _tôʿēbāh_):** This is a strong theological term used throughout the Old Testament to describe practices, objects, or behaviors that are utterly detestable, repugnant, or morally offensive to God. In this context, it primarily refers to idolatrous worship, occult practices, and the associated immoral rites that defiled the land and violated God's covenant with Israel. Its comprehensive use here ("all the abominations") emphasizes the pervasive nature of the spiritual corruption Josiah confronted.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Moreover the [workers with] familiar spirits, and the wizards, and the images, and the idols":** This opening clause meticulously lists specific categories of illicit spiritual practices and objects of worship. "Familiar spirits" and "wizards" represent various forms of occultism and divination, which sought supernatural knowledge or power outside of God's prescribed means. "Images" (teraphim) were often household idols, cultic figures, or even objects used for divination, while "idols" (gillulim) is a pejorative term for the detestable pagan deities and their representations. The listing emphasizes the breadth and depth of the spiritual defilement Josiah sought to eradicate.
* **"and all the abominations that were spied in the land of Judah and in Jerusalem":** This phrase broadens the scope beyond the specific items listed, encompassing every detestable practice that had infiltrated the nation. The use of "spied" (or "seen," "found") suggests that these practices were not hidden but openly prevalent and deeply entrenched throughout the land, from the capital city of Jerusalem to the farthest reaches of Judah, underscoring the pervasive nature of the apostasy.
* **"did Josiah put away":** This simple yet powerful statement highlights Josiah's decisive, active, and comprehensive role in the purge. It was not a passive observation but a vigorous, intentional, and authoritative act of removal and destruction. This phrase underscores his leadership in initiating and executing the reforms.
* **"that he might perform the words of the law which were written in the book that Hilkiah the priest found in the house of the LORD":** This concluding clause reveals the ultimate motivation and driving force behind Josiah's actions. His radical reforms were not arbitrary but a direct and obedient response to the rediscovered Book of the Law. The phrase "perform the words of the law" emphasizes his commitment to active, practical obedience. The reference to Hilkiah finding the book in the temple reiterates the divine catalyst for this unprecedented national spiritual renewal, linking all of Josiah's efforts directly to God's revealed will.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its message effectively. The most prominent is **Listing** (or enumeration), as it meticulously itemizes the various forms of spiritual corruption—"familiar spirits, and the wizards, and the images, and the idols"—to emphasize the comprehensive nature of the defilement and, by extension, the thoroughness of Josiah's purge. The phrase "and all the abominations" functions as a form of **Hyperbole** or **Generalization**, indicating that the listed items are merely examples of a much larger, pervasive problem. There is a clear **Causality** established, linking Josiah's actions ("did Josiah put away") directly to his motivation ("that he might perform the words of the law"), highlighting the profound impact of God's Word on his leadership. Finally, the verse implicitly uses **Contrast** by portraying Josiah as a righteous king who actively removes the very practices that his wicked predecessors had introduced and promoted, thereby setting him apart as a model of covenant fidelity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse underscores the profound theological truth that God demands exclusive worship and utterly abhors all forms of idolatry and occultism. Josiah's radical purge serves as a powerful example of what it means for a nation, or an individual, to truly repent and turn back to God's revealed truth. The pervasive nature of the "abominations" highlights the corrupting influence of sin and the deep spiritual sickness that can afflict a people when they abandon the covenant. However, it also showcases the transformative power of God's Word when it is rediscovered, embraced, and obeyed. True spiritual revival is always rooted in a renewed commitment to God's commands, leading to a decisive putting away of everything that contradicts His holiness. This pursuit of purity is not merely external but reflects a deep desire to honor God alone, recognizing that He is the sole source of life and truth.

* [Deuteronomy 7:25-26](/deuteronomy/7-25 "Deuteronomy 7:25-26 - Destroy Idols and Abhor Abominations")
* [1 Samuel 15:23](/1_samuel/15-23 "1 Samuel 15:23 - Rebellion is as the Sin of Witchcraft")
* [Isaiah 2:18](/isaiah/2-18 "Isaiah 2:18 - Idols Utterly Abolished")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Josiah's unwavering commitment to purge idolatry and occultism from Judah, driven by the rediscovered Law, offers a profound challenge and model for believers today. In a world increasingly saturated with spiritual alternatives and subtle forms of idolatry, we are called to a similar radical obedience to God's Word. Just as Josiah physically removed the abominations, we are to examine our own hearts and lives, identifying anything that takes the place of God's rightful supremacy—whether it be the pursuit of wealth, comfort, status, self-worship, or even spiritual practices that subtly deviate from biblical truth. This requires spiritual discernment, a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths, and the courage to "put away" those things that grieve the Holy Spirit and hinder our walk with God. Our spiritual cleansing, empowered by Christ, is an ongoing process of repentance and renewal, ensuring that our worship is pure and undivided, reflecting a genuine desire to perform the words of God's eternal Law, which is perfectly revealed in Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "abominations" or subtle forms of idolatry might be present in my own life or in the culture around me that need to be "put away" in obedience to God's Word?**
* **How does the discovery and application of God's Word (the Bible) catalyze spiritual transformation in my life, similar to how it did for Josiah?**
* **Am I truly committed to "perform the words of the law" in all areas of my life, even when it requires radical change or goes against cultural norms?**
* **In what ways can I actively participate in the spiritual cleansing of my home, community, or even the broader society by upholding biblical truth and rejecting practices contrary to God's will?**

### FAQ
**What were "familiar spirits" and "wizards" and why were they so offensive to God?**

Answer: "Familiar spirits" (Hebrew: *'ōbōt*) referred to mediums or necromancers who claimed to communicate with the dead to gain knowledge or guidance. "Wizards" (Hebrew: *yidde'ōnîm*) were those who claimed special knowledge, often through magical arts, divination, or sorcery. Both practices were strictly forbidden by God in the Mosaic Law, as detailed in [Deuteronomy 18:10-12](/deuteronomy/18-10 "Deuteronomy 18:10-12 - Abominable Practices"). They were offensive to God because they bypassed His authority, sought power and knowledge from illicit or demonic sources, and led people away from exclusive reliance on Him. God alone is the source of all true wisdom and guidance, and engaging in such practices was an act of spiritual rebellion and idolatry, defiling both the individual and the land.

**How did the discovery of the Law book lead to such a massive reform?**

Answer: The discovery of the Book of the Law (likely a copy of Deuteronomy or a portion thereof) by Hilkiah the priest during temple repairs ([2 Kings 22:8](/2_kings/22-8 "2 Kings 22:8 - Hilkiah Finds the Book of the Law")) was the catalyst for Josiah's reforms. When Josiah heard the words of the Law, particularly the curses pronounced against disobedience ([2 Kings 22:11-13](/2_kings/22-11 "2 Kings 22:11-13 - Josiah's Response to the Law")), he was overwhelmed by the extent of Judah's apostasy and the impending divine judgment. His response was one of profound humility, repentance, and zealous commitment to obey God's commands. The Law provided a clear standard for righteousness and exposed the nation's deep sin, compelling Josiah to initiate a comprehensive purge to restore covenant fidelity and avert God's wrath, as confirmed by the prophetess Huldah ([2 Kings 22:14-20](/2_kings/22-14 "2 Kings 22:14-20 - Huldah's Prophecy to Josiah")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While King Josiah's reforms were extensive and sincere, they ultimately proved to be temporary, as Judah reverted to its idolatrous ways after his death, leading to the Babylonian exile. This highlights the limitations of even the most righteous human kings and external religious purges. However, Josiah's zeal to "perform the words of the law" foreshadows the ultimate and perfect obedience of Jesus Christ. Jesus, the true and eternal King, did not merely put away external abominations but came to deal with the root of all sin and idolatry—the human heart. Through His perfect life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection, Christ fulfilled the Law's righteous demands ([Matthew 5:17](/matthew/5-17 "Matthew 5:17 - Jesus Fulfilled the Law")) and provided the means for true spiritual cleansing. He is the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), offering a new covenant where the Law is written on the heart by the Holy Spirit ([Jeremiah 31:33](/jeremiah/31-33 "Jeremiah 31:33 - The New Covenant")). Unlike Josiah's reforms, Christ's work brings about a permanent transformation, empowering believers to put off the old self and its sinful practices, and to walk in newness of life, truly worshipping God in [spirit and truth](/john/4-24 "John 4:24 - Worship in Spirit and Truth"). In Christ, we find the ultimate eradication of all spiritual abominations, not just from the land, but from the very core of our being, enabling us to live lives of genuine, Christ-centered obedience.

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

Leviticus 19:31

Regard not them that have familiar spirits, neither seek after wizards, to be defiled by them: I [am] the LORD your God.

2 Kings 21:6

And he made his son pass through the fire, and observed times, and used enchantments, and dealt with familiar spirits and wizards: he wrought much wickedness in the sight of the LORD, to provoke [him] to anger.

Genesis 31:19

And Laban went to shear his sheep: and Rachel had stolen the images that [were] her father's.

Deuteronomy 18:10

There shall not be found among you [any one] that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, [or] that useth divination, [or] an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch,

Deuteronomy 18:12

For all that do these things [are] an abomination unto the LORD: and because of these abominations the LORD thy God doth drive them out from before thee.

Leviticus 20:27

A man also or woman that hath a familiar spirit, or that is a wizard, shall surely be put to death: they shall stone them with stones: their blood [shall be] upon them.

1 Samuel 28:3

Now Samuel was dead, and all Israel had lamented him, and buried him in Ramah, even in his own city. And Saul had put away those that had familiar spirits, and the wizards, out of the land.