Josiah
Josiah in the Bible — prophesied son of the house of David (1KI 13:2), King of Judah and son of Amon (2KI 21:24). Referenced in 10 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “the Lord burns; the fire of the Lord”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Scripture References
- 10 references
- Known Names
- 3 names
- Relationships
- 7 connections
Biography
Josiah was a male king of Judah, recognized as the prophesied son of the house of David and the son of Amon. He is noted for doing right in the sight of the LORD, demonstrating faithful leadership during his reign. His kingship and godly character are significant within the biblical narrative.
Names & Titles
The name Josiah means 'let or may YHWH give,' indicating a divine blessing in his identity. He is also referred to by the titles King Josiah and King of Judah, reflecting his royal role and authority over the kingdom of Judah.
Family
Josiah was a descendant of David and the son of Amon and Jedidah. The records also infer connections to Jehoahaz, Eliakim, Mattaniah, and Shallum as fathers, indicating a royal lineage. These relationships establish his place within the Davidic line and the royal family of Judah.
Significance
Josiah is important in Scripture as a king who faithfully followed God, leading a significant reformation in Judah. His discovery of the Book of the Law during temple repairs prompted sincere repentance and covenant renewal, highlighting the transformative power of God's Word. His reign is marked by the destruction of idolatry and a delay in Judah's judgment, underscoring his role as a godly reformer.
Key Events
Names & Labels (3)
- Hebrew
- יֹאשִׁיָּהוּ
- Transliteration
- yosiyahu
- Meaning
- let or may y-h-v-h give
- Greek
- Ιωσιας
- Reference
- 1KI 13:2
- Strong's
- H2977
- Hebrew
- מֶּלֶךְ יֹאשִׁיָּהוּ
- Transliteration
- melek yoshayahu
- Meaning
- king Josiah
- Greek
- βασιλεῖ Ιωσια
- Reference
- 2KI 22:3
- Strong's
- H4428, H2977
- Hebrew
- מֶלֶך יְהוּדָה
- Transliteration
- melek yəhudah
- Meaning
- king of Judah
- Greek
- βασιλεὺς Ιουδα
- Reference
- 2KI 22:16
- Strong's
- H4428, H3063
Family & Relationships (7)
descendant
Notes
He did right in the sight of the LORD (2KI 22:2)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Josiah in the Bible?
Josiah was a male king of Judah, recognized as the prophesied son of the house of David and the son of Amon. He is noted for doing right in the sight of the LORD, demonstrating faithful leadership during his reign. His kingship and godly character are significant within the biblical narrative.
What does the name Josiah mean?
The name Josiah means “the Lord burns; the fire of the Lord” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.