2 Chronicles 35:19

2 Chronicles 35:19 marks the conclusion of the detailed account of King Josiah's magnificent Passover celebration, emphasizing its historical timing within his reign. This verse serves as a summary statement, highlighting the significance of this particular event as a pivotal moment in Judah's spiritual history.

Historical and Cultural Context

King Josiah, who began his reign at the tender age of eight, was one of Judah's most righteous kings. Unlike many of his predecessors, he "did that which was right in the sight of the LORD" (2 Chronicles 34:2). His reign was marked by extensive religious reforms, including the purging of idolatry from the land and the repair of the Temple in Jerusalem (2 Chronicles 34:3-7). The eighteenth year of his reign (approximately 622 BC) was particularly significant because it was during the Temple repairs that the Book of the Law was discovered (2 Chronicles 34:14-21). This discovery profoundly impacted Josiah, leading him to renew the covenant with God and to orchestrate the grand Passover described in 2 Chronicles 35:1-18. The narrative explicitly states that this celebration was unparalleled since the days of Samuel the prophet, and even among the kings of Israel (2 Chronicles 35:18), underscoring its immense scale and spiritual depth.

Key Themes and Messages

• Obedience and Revival: The meticulous keeping of the Passover under Josiah's direction demonstrates a profound national commitment to obey God's commands, leading to a significant spiritual revival in Judah.
• Centrality of God's Word: The discovery of the Law was the catalyst for this massive religious reform and the subsequent Passover. It highlights the transformative power of returning to and diligently applying God's revealed truth.
• Covenant Renewal: The Passover, originally instituted as a remembrance of God's deliverance from Egypt (Exodus 12:14), served as a powerful act of national covenant renewal, reaffirming Judah's relationship with the LORD.
• Godly Leadership: Josiah's personal piety and zealous leadership were instrumental in guiding the nation back to faithful worship and adherence to the Mosaic Law.

Linguistic Insights

The term "Passover" (Hebrew: Pesach) literally means "passing over" or "protection," referring to the night when the angel of death "passed over" the homes of the Israelites marked with the blood of the lamb in Egypt. The verb "kept" (Hebrew: asah) implies not just performing, but actively "making" or "doing" it in a thorough and proper manner, reflecting the meticulous attention to detail Josiah and the people gave to this sacred observance.

Practical Application

The account of Josiah's Passover offers timeless lessons for believers today:

• Return to Scripture: Just as the discovery of the Law ignited revival in Judah, a renewed focus on God's Word is essential for personal and corporate spiritual vitality.
• Impact of Leadership: Godly leaders, whether in the home, church, or community, can inspire significant positive change and lead others toward deeper obedience to God.
• Importance of Worship: Remembering and celebrating God's redemptive acts, both historically (like the Passover) and personally (like Christ's sacrifice), is crucial for maintaining a vibrant faith. This echoes the Christian celebration of the Lord's Supper, which commemorates Christ, our Passover Lamb (1 Corinthians 5:7).