Smith's Bible Dictionary

1. The son of Amon and Jedidah, succeeded his father B.C. 641, in the eighty years of his age, and reigned 31 years. His history is contained in 2Ki_22:1; 2Ki_24:30; 2Ch_34:1; 2Ch_35:1, and the first twelve chapters of Jeremiah throw much light upon the general character of the Jews in his day. He began in the eighth year of his reign to seek the Lord; and in his twelfth year, and for six years afterward, in a personal progress throughout all the land of Judah and Israel, he destroyed everywhere high places, groves, images and all outward signs and relics of idolatry.

The great day of Josiah's life was the day of the Passover in the eighteenth year of his reign. After this, his endeavors to abolish every trace of idolatry and superstition were still carried on; but the time drew near which had been indicated by Hulda,. 2Ki_22:20, when Pharaoh-necho went from Egypt to Carchemish to carry on his war along the seacoast. Necho reluctantly paused and gave him battle in the valley of Esdraelon. Josiah was mortally wounded, and died before he could reach Jerusalem. He was buried with extraordinary honors.

2. The son of Zephaniah, at whose house took place the solemn and symbolical crowning of Joshua the high priest. Zec_6:10. (B.C. about 1520).