Biblical Christian Stories
At this particular time in Judah history, we find ourselves being introduced into the era of king Josiah. Starting his reign at the tender age of eight, he has been tagged as the godliest king since King David, and was perhaps Judah last great king. It was during his reign as king when the "The book of the Law" was discovered by Hilkiah the high priest, while the rebuilding of the temple was taking place. After the discovery Hilkiah then took the "Book of the Law" to king Josiah. After Josiah read this book his eyes were opened to the sins of his people and he was very ashamed. He tore his robes out of disgust behind his people sins. He was then fearful that the wrath of God was going to come down on them for judgment for their sins. Behind his concerns he gave the orders for Hilkiah the high priest, Ahikam son of Shaphan, Acbor son of Micaiah, Shapan the secretary and his attendant Asaiah, to go up and speak to Huldah the prophetess. Now Huldah the prophetess was the wife of Shallum the son of Tikvah. Her husband was an official in the king's court that was in charge of the keeping of the wardrobe. She also lived close by, for she stayed in the second rank buildings that were close to the royal palace in an area called Mishneh. It is also believed that she prophesied among the court ladies, being one herself and had established her ministry there. Now it is believed that Huldah was the prophetess the kings representatives turned too on a regular basis, being that they were already familiar with Huldah ministry and her family. I say this because Jeremiah and Zephaniah were also prophesying during this time period as well. Because they have forsaken me and burned incense to other gods and provoked me to anger by all the idols their hands have made, my anger will burn against this place and will not be quenched.' Tell the king of Judah, who sent you to inquire of the Lord, 'This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says concerning the words you heard: Because your heart was responsive and you humbled yourself before the Lord when you heard what I have spoken against this place and its people, that they would become accursed and laid waste, and because you tore your robes and wept in my presence, I have heard you declares the Lord. Therefore I will gather you to your fathers, and you will be buried in peace. Your eyes will not see all the disaster I am going to bring on this place.'" (2 Kings 22:15-20) Now this prophesy did come to pass, for king Josiah although he was killed in a battle against the Egyptians. He was not alive when Judah was taken by Babylon and put into captivity, which is also known as the "Captivity Stage." This all happen shortly after king Josiah was killed in battle against the Egyptians at the age of thirty-nine.  |
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