Asaiah עֲשָׂיָה
Servant of King Josiah during Book of Law discovery
Who is Asaiah in the Bible?
Asaiah was a trusted servant of King Josiah of Judah who played a key role during the discovery of the Book of the Law in the Temple (2 Kings 22:12, 14; 2 Chronicles 34:20). When Josiah learned of the book's contents and the divine judgments it contained, he sent Asaiah along with other officials to consult the prophetess Huldah and inquire of the Lord. Through Huldah, Asaiah helped deliver a message confirming that judgment would come upon Judah for their idolatry, though Josiah himself would be spared because of his repentant heart. His selection for this critical religious mission indicates he was among the king's most valued advisors and demonstrates his participation in Josiah's significant religious reforms during the late monarchy period.
Biography
Asaiah was a servant of King Josiah of Judah during the time when the Book of the Law was discovered in the Temple. When the book was read to Josiah, he tore his robes in distress and sent Asaiah, along with several others, to inquire of the Lord through the prophetess Huldah. Huldah confirmed that the curses written in the book would come upon Judah for their idolatry but that Josiah would not see this judgment because of his humble response. Asaiah's involvement in this event suggests he was a trusted servant of the king and played a role in Josiah's religious reforms.
In Scripture
2 biblical books2 Kings 2 verses
- 2 Kings 22:12
"and commanded Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam son of Shaphan, Achbor son of Micaiah, Shaphan the scribe, and Asaiah the servant of the king:"
- 2 Kings 22:14
"So Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam, Achbor, Shaphan, and Asaiah went and spoke to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, the keeper of the wardrobe. She lived in Jerusalem, in the Second District."
2 Chronicles 1 verse
- 2 Chronicles 34:20
"and commanded Hilkiah, Ahikam son of Shaphan, Abdon son of Micah, Shaphan the scribe, and Asaiah the servant of the king:"
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | עֲשָׂיָה |