What was Josiah known for in relation to the temple according to the historical accounts?

Josiah is renowned for his actions in relation to the temple, particularly for cleansing it. His reign marked a significant religious reform during which he sought to restore proper worship and adherence to the laws of the Lord as outlined in the scriptures. This included the removal of idols and wrongful practices that had crept into the worship practices of the Israelites. Through his efforts, the temple in Jerusalem was restored to its intended purpose as a place of worship dedicated to God. This act of cleansing was pivotal in reestablishing the sanctity of the temple and reinforcing the covenant relationship between God and His people.

The focus on cleansing rather than building, destroying, or ignoring the temple highlights Josiah's commitment to reforming the existing religious practices, making his actions a key aspect of his legacy as a religious leader in the history of Israel.