How old was King Josiah when he became king? This question has intrigued historians and scholars for centuries. King Josiah, known for his dedication to reforming the kingdom of Judah, ascended to the throne at a relatively young age, marking the beginning of his reign of profound religious and political changes.
King Josiah was born in 640 BC, according to the biblical account, and he became king at the age of eight. His father, Amon, had been assassinated just two years into his reign, and Josiah was crowned as the new king by his grandmother, Queen Jehoaddan. Despite his young age, Josiah quickly proved to be a capable ruler, as he was mentored by his officials and advisors.
Josiah’s reign, which lasted until his death in 609 BC, was marked by a series of reforms aimed at restoring the kingdom to its former glory. He was particularly focused on the worship of the one true God, as prescribed in the Law of Moses. Josiah’s reforms included the destruction of idolatrous temples, the re-establishment of the Passover celebration, and the re-dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem.
One of the most significant events of Josiah’s reign was the discovery of the Book of the Law, which is believed to be the book of Deuteronomy. This discovery led Josiah to initiate a comprehensive campaign to reform the kingdom, as he sought to enforce the laws and commandments of God. The impact of these reforms was profound, as they laid the groundwork for the future of the Jewish people.
In addition to his religious reforms, King Josiah was also a formidable military leader. He expanded the borders of Judah and successfully repelled invasions from neighboring kingdoms, including Egypt and Assyria. Josiah’s military successes helped to stabilize the kingdom and ensure its survival in a tumultuous period.
Despite his many achievements, King Josiah’s reign came to a tragic end. In 609 BC, Josiah was killed in battle against the Egyptian forces at Megiddo. His death marked the end of the Davidic line of kings in Judah, as his son, Jehoahaz, was deposed and replaced by his uncle, Jehoiakim.
In conclusion, King Josiah became king at the age of eight, a young age that did not deter him from becoming one of the most influential rulers in Jewish history. His dedication to reforming the kingdom, his military successes, and his religious zeal have earned him a lasting legacy as a king who truly sought to serve God and his people.
