In this podcast (13 mins) learn about Huldah—a minor yet significant character of the Bible.

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Hebrew & Greek words:

  • chuldah = mole. See the Huldah Gates (entrance into Temple precinct).
  • nevi'ah = prophetess (Greek prophêtis)
  • navi' = prophet (Greek prophétēs)

Prophetesses of the Bible:

  • Old Testament
    • Miriam (Exod 15:20)
    • Deborah (Judg 4:4)
    • Huldah (2 Kings 22:14-20)
    • Isaiah's wife (Isa 8:3)
    • Traditional extras (in Judaism): Sarah, Abigail, Esther
  • New Testament
    • Anna (Luke 2:36)
    • Philip's daughters (Acts 21:9)
    • See also Acts 2:17-18; 1 Cor 11:4-5.
  • False prophetesses
    • Noadiah (Neh 6:14)
    • "Jezebel" (Rev 2:20)

Text: 2 Chron 34:8-28 (selections)

What we learn about Huldah:

  • She is one of three named prophetesses in the O.T.
  • She was married, from a prominent family, and "high up" in the hierarchy.
  • She realizes the spiritual seriousness of the situation, and responds accordingly.
  • She's willing to convey challenging words to the king himself.
  • The king listens to her (2 Chron 34:29-35:19). He respects her.

What we learn about God:

  • God can speak authoritatively through a woman just as easily as through a man. (Huldah's message back to the king read and feel every bit as serious and authoritative as the words of Jeremiah!)
  • He holds us responsible for our knowledge of his Word. When we learn the truth, Yahweh expects us to act.
  • We are to do what is right, whether or not we are "successful." Josiah's revival movement was a case of "too little, too late." Still the Lord was pleased that he listened to Huldah and strove for righteousness and obedience to God's Law.