The answer is: Five

2 Kings 22:14

Josiah, a king of Judah, is often celebrated for his commitment to spiritual reforms. After discovering lost scrolls of the Law in the temple, he could’ve simply acted on them. Instead, he sent five men, a tidy number that hints at the importance of their mission, to inquire of Huldah the prophetess.

While various prophets offered guidance in Israel—think of the major figures like Isaiah or Jeremiah—Huldah stands out as a fascinating example of a woman in a prominent leadership role. It was somewhat irregular in that time for a woman to be the go-to voice of divine wisdom. Huldah’s message brought both a stern warning about impending judgment for the nation’s sins and a promise of future grace for King Josiah himself.

Adding a layer of intrigue, it’s worth highlighting that the prophetess was consulting in a time where patriarchal disregard often overlooked female wisdom. Her inclusion shows that God’s voice is not bound by human customs; it reminds us that divine inspiration comes in unexpected forms. Interesting trivia: archaeological discoveries support Josiah’s era and hint at a period of religious revitalization sparked by returning to and honoring ancient texts—a relevant echo perhaps in discussions of faith reverberating through time.

Josiah, by seeking Huldah’s counsel, walks a path many leaders might benefit from today—recognizing and valuing the insights of all, regardless of gender.