The answer is: David

2 Kings 22:2

When we think about King Josiah walking in the ways of David, it’s like tracing a line back to a golden age of Israelite history. David was not just a king but a legend, known for his heart for God and unifying the tribes of Israel. Josiah’s ideal of ruling was shaped by this illustrious ancestor, even though hundreds of years—and some pretty chaotic times—separated them.

Josiah was known for his significant reforms. At just eight years old, he became king and surprisingly took a dramatic turn toward spiritual renewal when he discovered the Book of the Law in the temple. This book, potentially what we now refer to as parts of Deuteronomy, was like finding an ancient family treasure. You can picture him pouring over scrolls and feeling that connection to David, committing himself to restoring proper worship and observance of God’s commandments.

What’s fascinating is how this embrace of David’s legacy had deep roots in Hebrew culture. They loved their stories, and recounting David’s accomplishments—including his psalms—had a profound influence on the Israelites. Moreover, during Josiah’s reign, the external threat of empires was looming, so returning to a faith-centered leadership became even more crucial.

In essence, through extreme challenges, Josiah stood as a beacon of hope, anchoring his legitimacy and purpose within the storytelling fabric of his people's past. This devotion remains a captivating theme throughout the narrative arcs of scripture.