8th Century BC
The Kingdom of Judah was experiencing a religious revival under King Hezekiah, who sought to restore proper worship of Yahweh after a period of idolatry.
The Assyrian Empire was a dominant force in the region, having already conquered the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Judah was under threat but maintained its independence through strategic alliances and religious reforms.
Jerusalem, the capital of Judah, where the Temple was located. The chapter also mentions sending letters throughout Israel and Judah, indicating a broader geographical outreach.
The Passover was a significant religious festival that had been neglected. Hezekiah's call to celebrate it was a return to the Mosaic Law and a unifying act for the people of Judah and the remnants of Israel.
Hezekiah