Who was Zephaniah prophesying during the reign of?

Zephaniah was prophesying during the reign of King Josiah, who ruled from 640 to 609 BCE. This period is significant because Josiah initiated major religious reforms aimed at restoring the worship of Yahweh and eliminating polytheism in Judah. Zephaniah's prophetic messages focused on themes of judgment against the nations, the accountability of the people of Judah, and a call to repentance. His ministry corresponded with the spiritual revival that Josiah sought to implement, making his messages particularly relevant during this time of reform.

While there were notable kings before and after Josiah, such as Hezekiah, Manasseh, and Solomon, the prophetic messages of Zephaniah specifically align with the historical and spiritual context of Josiah’s reign, highlighting the urgent need for moral and religious renewal among the people of Judah.