Huldah may not be as well-known as Deborah or Esther, but she played a key role in one of Israel’s most important turning points. She was a prophetess during the time of King Josiah and helped spark a national revival. Her short story shows how God can use anyone—man or woman—for His purpose.
Here are ten interesting facts about Huldah from the Bible.
1. Huldah Was a Prophetess
Huldah was one of the few women in the Bible described as a prophetess. She lived in Jerusalem and was sought out for her wisdom and ability to hear from God.
2 Kings 22:14 (KJV)
“So Hilkiah the priest, and Ahikam, and Achbor, and Shaphan, and Asahiah, went unto Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum... (now she dwelt in Jerusalem in the college;) and they communed with her.”
2. She Lived During the Reign of King Josiah
Huldah lived in the time of King Josiah, a righteous king who brought reform to Judah. When Josiah’s officials found the Book of the Law, they turned to Huldah to interpret its meaning.
2 Kings 22:11–13 (KJV)
“And it came to pass, when the king had heard the words of the book of the law, that he rent his clothes... Go ye, enquire of the LORD for me... concerning the words of this book that is found.”
3. Huldah Spoke God's Judgment and Mercy
Huldah boldly spoke God's word. She warned of judgment because the people had forsaken God, but also assured Josiah that because of his humility, he would be spared.
2 Kings 22:15–17 (KJV)
“Thus saith the LORD... Behold, I will bring evil upon this place... Because they have forsaken me... therefore my wrath shall be kindled... and shall not be quenched.”2 Kings 22:18–20 (KJV)
“But to the king of Judah... Because thine heart was tender... and thou didst humble thyself... thou shalt be gathered into thy grave in peace.”
4. Her Words Led to National Reform
After hearing Huldah’s message, Josiah gathered all the people and renewed the covenant with the Lord, removing idols and restoring worship.
2 Kings 23:1–3 (KJV)
“And the king sent... and all the people... went up into the house of the LORD... and made a covenant before the LORD, to walk after the LORD... with all their heart.”
5. Huldah Lived in the Second Quarter of Jerusalem
The Bible says she lived in the “college” or “second quarter” of the city. This may have been a place where priests, scribes, or scholars lived.
2 Chronicles 34:22 (KJV)
“And they spake to Huldah the prophetess... (now she dwelt in Jerusalem in the college:)”
6. She Was Married to Shallum
Huldah was married to Shallum, a man who worked in the royal court. He was the keeper of the king’s wardrobe, suggesting they were respected citizens.
2 Kings 22:14 (KJV)
“...the wife of Shallum the son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, keeper of the wardrobe...”
7. Her Counsel Was Sought by High Officials
Even though there were priests and officials available, the king’s messengers went directly to Huldah. She was clearly trusted and known for speaking truth.
Jeremiah 1:5 (KJV)
“Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee...”
8. She Confirmed the Book of the Law
The scroll found in the temple (likely part of Deuteronomy) was unfamiliar to the people. Huldah confirmed its authority and divine origin.
Deuteronomy 31:26 (KJV)
“Take this book of the law, and put it in the side of the ark... that it may be there for a witness against thee.”2 Kings 22:16 (KJV)
“Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will bring evil upon this place... even all the words of the book which the king of Judah hath read.”
9. She Is One of a Few Named Female Prophets
Huldah joins a small list of named female prophets in Scripture, such as Miriam, Deborah, and Anna.
| Prophetess | Reference | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Miriam | Exodus 15:20 | Led worship after crossing the Red Sea |
| Deborah | Judges 4:4 | Judge and military leader |
| Huldah | 2 Kings 22:14 | Interpreted God’s word for the king |
| Anna | Luke 2:36 | Spoke about Jesus in the temple |
10. God Spoke Through Her, Not a Priest
At a time when temple worship had been corrupted, God chose to speak through Huldah instead of a priest or male prophet. This reminds us that God uses faithful people, regardless of title.
Galatians 3:28 (KJV)
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.”
