If you looked up a list of lesser-known Bible characters, you’d likely come across the name Huldah. This prophetess might not be as famous as Miriam or Deborah, but her role in Israel’s history is significant. Though her story is short, her example continues to offer encouragement for women in ministry and in their walk with God.
In this post, we’ll explore who Huldah was, the lessons we can learn from her life, and practical applications that can inspire us today. Let’s take a deeper look into this little-known yet mighty woman of faith.
Who Was Huldah in the Bible?
Huldah appears in only two sections of the Bible- 2 Kings 22:14-20 and 2 Chronicles 34:22-28– but she plays an oversized role in Israel’s history.
Huldah’s name may not be as familiar as some other Biblical figures, but her legacy is rich. She was a prophetess during the reign of King Josiah, one of Israel’s few righteous kings.
Huldah was a descendant of the tribe of Ephraim (Joseph’s second son) and had a husband named Shallum, who served as the “keeper of the wardrobe,” an esteemed position in the royal court.
Though Jeremiah and Zephaniah were also active prophets during this time, God specifically chose Huldah to speak on His behalf.
What is a Prophetess?
A prophetess is simply a female prophet. Like male prophets, prophetesses are called by God to speak His truth and communicate His message to His people.
Scripture shows people treated prophetesses and male prophets the same. They had the same responsibility which was proclaiming God’s word to a wayward nation.
Throughout the Bible, we see that many prophets and prophetesses had other professions. Huldah’s residence in a scholarly area of Jerusalem led people to believe she was a teacher.1
Huldah and King Josiah’s Story
In 2 Chronicles 34, we find the pivotal moment when King Josiah discovered the Book of the Law, which was lost during the reign of previous evil kings. These first five books of the Bible contained the laws God gave to Moses and the Israelites.
Upon hearing the words read aloud, Josiah was immediately convicted of how far the people had strayed from God and tore his robes in grief. The warnings of discipline and judgement to come because of their neglect were alarming.
King Josiah sent a group of men to inquire of the Lord, and they went straight to Huldah, the prophetess, for guidance. Instead of seeking a male prophet, Josiah trusted Huldah’s spiritual wisdom, showing the respect and authority she held in her community.
Huldah gave this prophetic message:
“This is what the Lord says: I am going to bring disaster on this place and its people- all the curses written in the book that has been read in the presence of the king of Judah.” (2 Chronicles 34:24)
She also had words of mercy for King Josiah, saying,
“Because your heart was responsive, and you humbled yourself before God… I have heard you… You will not see all the disaster I am going to bring on this place.” (2 Chronicles 34:27-28)
Huldah’s prophecy resulted in the people’s renewed covenant with their Lord. As long as King Josiah lived, the people followed God.
What We Can Learn from Huldah’s Life
Huldah’s life offers us several timeless lessons that we can apply today:
1. Boldness in Speaking God’s Truth
Huldah did not shy away from delivering hard messages. God had filled her with His Spirit and called her to speak the truth, even when it wasn’t good news for the people.
Her courage in the face of potential persecution, is a reminder for us to always be bold in sharing God’s word.
2. God Can Use Anyone
Despite her relative obscurity in Scripture, Huldah played a pivotal role in Israel’s spiritual revival. She wasn’t famous or high-ranking, but she was faithful.
God used her because Huldah dedicated her heart to Him. This encourages us that God doesn’t need us to have degrees, titles, or fame; He only needs a willing heart and a desire to serve.
3. Confidence in God’s Calling
Huldah had confidence in God and trust in His word. When she spoke, she did so with authority, knowing she was delivering God’s message. Her strong relationship and confidence are something we can strive for in our own walk with God.
4. Faithful to God’s Plan
Despite the limited information we have about Huldah, one thing is clear: she was obedient to God. She faithfully delivered the message God had entrusted her with, without concern for the personal cost.
Practical Application: How Huldah’s Story Encourages Us
Huldah’s life challenges us to reflect on our own walk with God. Here are some questions for reflection:
- God has called all Christians to be His spokesperson. What is your role?
- How often do you listen to God’s voice in your own life?
- How does Huldah’s story encourage you in your own ministry?
- Do people recognize you as a person to seek when they need God’s wisdom and guidance?
Huldah’s story shows us that faithfulness to God, boldness in sharing His word, and trust in His plan are key qualities that God values. Whether the world recognizes or praises us, our role in God’s kingdom is invaluable.
Conclusion
Although she remains relatively unknown, Huldah’s story powerfully shows us that God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things. Her faithfulness, courage, and obedience to God continue to encourage us today as we seek to live out His purpose in our own lives.
Let Huldah’s story inspire you to live boldly, speak the truth, and trust God’s calling on your life.
Blessings!
AnnMarie
¹theologyofwork.org/old-testament/introduction-to-the-prophets
Related post you may be interested in: Strong Women of the Bible
All Scripture is from the NIV unless specified otherwise.
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