Josiahs Reforms
During the reign of King Josiah in the late seventh century BC, temple repairs in Jerusalem led to the discovery of the Book of the Law by High Priest Hilkiah, prompting the young king to tear his robes in repentance upon hearing its contents. Josiah responded by purging Judah of idolatry, destroying pagan altars and high places, reinstating covenant faithfulness, and overseeing a national Passover celebration unmatched since the days of the judges. These reforms temporarily restored adherence to Mosaic law amid generations of apostasy under previous kings. In Scripture, the account in 2 Kings 22โ23 and 2 Chronicles 34โ35 underscores the power of Godโs Word to spark revival while illustrating that such renewal could only delay, not avert, the coming judgment of exile.
Meanwhile in the World
Assyria becomes the world's first great empire, conquering from Egypt to Persia. Greece emerges from its Dark Age - the Olympic Games begin (776 BC). Rome is founded (753 BC). Carthage is established. This is the height of Assyrian military power and the rise of Greek city-states.