2 Chronicles 35:19
“In the eighteenth year of the reign of Josiah was this passover kept.”
This verse is part of a larger context describing the religious reforms carried out by King Josiah in the kingdom of Judah. Josiah was a righteous king who sought to restore the worship of the Lord and cleanse the land from idolatry.
To better understand the significance of 2 Chronicles 35:19, let’s explore the surrounding verses and gain some historical context:
Josiah’s Reforms:King Josiah ascended to the throne at the age of eight and reigned for thirty-one years. During his reign, he made significant efforts to restore the worship of God. He repaired the temple, removed idolatrous practices, and reinstated the observance of the Passover, which had been neglected for many years.
The Book of the Law:While restoring the temple, the high priest Hilkiah discovered the Book of the Law (believed to be the Book of Deuteronomy) within the temple. Upon hearing the words of the book, Josiah realised how far the people of Judah had strayed from God’s commands and became deeply convicted. He initiated comprehensive religious reforms based on the teachings found in the Book of the Law.
The Passover Celebration:In the eighteenth year of Josiah’s reign, the Passover was kept with great zeal and reverence. The Passover was a significant annual festival for the Israelites, commemorating their deliverance from slavery in Egypt. It involved sacrificing a lamb and consuming a special meal in accordance with God’s instructions (Exodus 12). Josiah ensured that the Passover was celebrated according to the Law, demonstrating his commitment to reestablishing the people’s covenantal relationship with God.
The verse you mentioned is a brief mention of the time when the Passover was observed during Josiah’s reign. While it might seem like a straightforward statement of historical fact, it also highlights Josiah’s dedication to reviving the religious practices that had been neglected for many years.
Overall, this verse emphasises the importance of religious observance and obedience to God’s commands. It serves as a reminder that honouring God’s appointed times and maintaining a close relationship with Him are essential aspects of spiritual life.
