Time period
7th Century BC
Cultural background
The Kingdom of Judah was deeply entrenched in idolatrous practices, influenced by surrounding nations and previous kings.
Political environment
Judah was a vassal state under the Assyrian Empire, but Assyria's power was waning, creating a power vacuum in the region.
Geographical setting
Jerusalem, the capital of Judah, where King Josiah initiated religious reforms.
Societal norms
Idolatry and syncretism were prevalent, with altars to Baal and Asherah in the Temple. Josiah's reforms aimed to centralize worship in Jerusalem and eliminate pagan practices.
Significant figures
Josiah
King of Judah who initiated major religious reforms to restore worship of Yahweh.
Pharaoh Necho II
Egyptian Pharaoh who killed Josiah at Megiddo.
Connected events