2 Chronicles 35:23

There the archers shot King Josiah, who said to his servants, "Take me away, for I am badly wounded!"

Study Bible

There the archers shot King Josiah
King Josiah was the last of the righteous kings of Judah, known for his reforms and dedication to the worship of Yahweh. His death occurred during a battle at Megiddo against Pharaoh Neco of Egypt. The archers' involvement suggests a strategic military engagement, as archers were often used to weaken or kill key figures from a distance. This event marks a significant turning point for Judah, as Josiah's death led to a rapid decline in the nation's spiritual and political state. The location, Megiddo, is historically significant as a site of many battles and is often associated with the concept of Armageddon in eschatological contexts.

who said to his servants,
Josiah's communication with his servants highlights the hierarchical structure of ancient Near Eastern societies, where kings were supported by a retinue of loyal servants and soldiers. This phrase indicates the presence of his attendants even in the chaos of battle, reflecting the loyalty and duty expected of those serving the king.

“Take me away,
This request demonstrates Josiah's awareness of his critical condition and his desire to be removed from the battlefield, possibly to receive medical attention or to avoid capture. It reflects the human instinct for survival and the king's reliance on his servants for protection and assistance in his vulnerable state.

for I am badly wounded!”
The severity of Josiah's injuries is emphasized here, marking the tragic end of a king who had sought to restore true worship in Judah. His death can be seen as a fulfillment of the prophecy given by Huldah the prophetess, who foretold that Josiah would die in peace, which can be interpreted as peace with God rather than a peaceful death. This moment foreshadows the coming judgment on Judah and serves as a reminder of the consequences of straying from God's covenant. Josiah's death also prefigures the suffering of Christ, the ultimate righteous king, who would be wounded for the transgressions of His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Josiah
The King of Judah known for his religious reforms and dedication to the worship of Yahweh. He is remembered for restoring the temple and reinstating the Passover.

2. Archers
The soldiers who shot King Josiah during the battle. They were likely part of Pharaoh Necho's army, as Josiah was opposing Necho's passage through Judah.

3. Servants of Josiah
The individuals who were with King Josiah during the battle and whom he instructed to take him away after being wounded.

4. Pharaoh Necho
The Egyptian Pharaoh at the time, who was on his way to assist the Assyrians against the Babylonians. Josiah opposed his passage, leading to the battle where he was wounded.

5. Megiddo
The location where the battle took place, a significant site in biblical history often associated with conflict.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
Josiah's decision to engage Pharaoh Necho, despite warnings, serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's guidance and obeying His will.

The Legacy of Leadership
Josiah's reforms and dedication to God left a lasting impact on Judah, demonstrating how godly leadership can influence a nation.

The Reality of Mortality
Josiah's untimely death reminds us of the brevity of life and the importance of living in accordance with God's purposes.

The Importance of Heeding Warnings
Josiah's account encourages us to listen to wise counsel and warnings, especially when they come from God or His messengers.

Trusting God's Sovereignty
Even in the face of unexpected events, such as Josiah's death, we are reminded to trust in God's overarching plan and sovereignty.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Josiah's decision to confront Pharaoh Necho, and how does it apply to our decision-making processes today?

2. How does Josiah's legacy of religious reform challenge us to influence our communities and environments for God?

3. In what ways does the account of Josiah's death encourage us to consider the brevity of life and our priorities?

4. How can we better discern and heed warnings or guidance from God in our own lives?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced unexpected challenges. How did you see God's sovereignty at work, and how can this passage encourage you in future situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 23:29-30
This passage provides a parallel account of Josiah's death, offering additional context and details about the events at Megiddo.

Deuteronomy 17:18-20
These verses outline the responsibilities of a king in Israel, emphasizing adherence to God's law, which Josiah exemplified in his reign.

Jeremiah 22:10-12
Jeremiah laments Josiah's death, highlighting the impact of his loss on the nation of Judah.