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2 Chronicles 34:22

And Hilkiah, and they that the king had appointed, went to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum the son of Tikvath, the son of Hasrah, keeper of the wardrobe; (now she dwelt in Jerusalem in the college:) and they spake to her to that effect.

2 Chronicles 34:22 · King James Version

Meaning

When King Josiah wanted to seek guidance from the Lord, he sent Hilkiah and his appointed officials to consult with Huldah the prophetess. Huldah was the wife of Shallum, who was the son of Tikvath, the son of Hasrah, and she was responsible for keeping the wardrobe in Jerusalem. She lived in the college in Jerusalem, where she received the delegation sent by the king. As a prophetess, Huldah had the ability to communicate directly with God and provide insight and guidance on important matters. The fact that Hilkiah and the king's officials sought her out indicates their respect and belief in her prophetic abilities. This interaction highlights the importance of seeking divine wisdom and guidance in times of uncertainty or decision-making. By consulting with Huldah, King Josiah and his officials demonstrated their commitment to following God's will and direction in their actions.

Theological Overview

This verse from 2 Kings 22:14 introduces us to a lesser-known prophetess named Huldah, who lived in Jerusalem during the time of King Josiah. The mention of Hilkiah and the king's appointed men seeking Huldah's counsel demonstrates her importance and authority in the religious community. A theological interpretation of this verse could highlight the significance of seeking guidance from prophets and prophetesses in times of uncertainty or need. Huldah's role as a prophetess underscores the belief in the Old Testament tradition that God communicates with humanity through chosen individuals. Additionally, a word study on the background of Huldah's family lineage - the son of Tikvath, the son of Hasrah - could provide insights into the prophetess's character, upbringing, and connection to the divine. By exploring the cultural context and linguistic nuances of this verse, readers can gain a deeper appreciation for the spiritual wisdom and leadership embodied by Huldah.

2 Chronicles 34:22 in other translations

American Standard Version

So Hilkiah, and they whom the king [had commanded], went to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum the son of Tokhath, the son of Hasrah, keeper of the wardrobe; (now she dwelt in Jerusalem in the second quarter;) and they spake to her to that effect.

World English Bible

So Hilkiah, and they whom the king had commanded, went to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum the son of Tokhath, the son of Hasrah, keeper of the wardrobe; (now she lived in Jerusalem in the second quarter;) and they spoke to her to that effect.

Douay-Rheims

And Helcias and they that were sent with him by the king, went to Olda the prophetess, the wife of Sellum the son of Thecuath, the son of Hasra keeper of the wardrobe: who dwelt in Jerusalem in the Second part: and they spoke to her the words above mentioned.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Then Hilkiah and they that the King had appoynted, went to Huldah the Prophetesse ye wife of Shallum, the sonne of Tokhath, the sonne of Hasrah keeper of the wardrobe (and she dwelt in Ierusalem within the colledge) and they communed hereof with her.