Who was Hasrah?

Hasrah (also called Harhas) is a lesser-known biblical figure mentioned in 2 Chronicles 34:22 as the grandfather of the prophetess Huldah. His name in Hebrew is חַרְחַס (Charchas or Hasrah), which likely means “zeal”, “ardor”, or possibly “engraver.” Although Hasrah himself is not directly involved in any major biblical narrative, his lineage holds significance because of his connection to Huldah, a faithful servant of God during the reign of King Josiah.

The variation of the name appears in the parallel account in 2 Kings 22:14, where he is referred to as Harhas. This dual naming reflects a common occurrence in the Old Testament, where names are sometimes rendered differently in different books or manuscripts.

Biblical References

• 2 Chronicles 34:22 – “Hilkiah and those the king had sent with him went to speak to the prophet Huldah, who was the wife of Shallum son of Tokhath, the son of Hasrah, keeper of the wardrobe. She lived in Jerusalem, in the New Quarter.”

• 2 Kings 22:14 – “Hilkiah the priest… went to speak to the prophet Huldah, who was the wife of Shallum son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, keeper of the wardrobe.”

These two references indicate that Hasrah (or Harhas) was part of a priestly or Levitical lineage and was associated with the temple service, particularly through his grandson-in-law Shallum who was “keeper of the wardrobe.”

The Role and Context

Though Hasrah is not a central character, his family line played a key role in one of Judah’s most important spiritual reformations. His granddaughter Huldah was a prophetess consulted by King Josiah‘s delegation after the rediscovery of the Book of the Law in the temple. Her words confirmed God’s judgment but also His mercy because of Josiah’s humble heart.

Hasrah’s mention helps anchor Huldah within the faithful and possibly Levitical or priestly lineage that remained devoted to the Lord even during times of apostasy in Judah.

What This Means for Today’s Christians

Hasrah reminds believers that legacy and spiritual heritage matter. Even though Hasrah is not portrayed as an active prophet, king, or warrior, his family bore fruit in a critical moment of Israel’s redemptive history. Christians today are encouraged to reflect on the impact of quiet faithfulness across generations.

Many Christians may never be in the spotlight, but their walk with God can leave a spiritual legacy that shapes future leaders, truth-tellers, and reformers. Parents and grandparents can nurture children in the faith, laying the groundwork for God to use them mightily.

Connection to Jesus and the Gospel

While Hasrah’s story doesn’t directly point to the Messiah, his indirect role through his granddaughter Huldah connects to the broader narrative of God raising up prophetic voices in preparation for His redemptive work. Huldah’s prophetic affirmation of the Book of the Law paved the way for national repentance under Josiah—a foreshadowing of the repentance Jesus would later call all people to embrace.

Jesus affirmed the value of every servant of God, whether known or unknown (see Matthew 10:41–42). Hasrah’s quiet presence in the biblical text is a reminder that God sees the faithfulness of the seemingly obscure and uses it for His unfolding plan of redemption.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. Spiritual Legacy

Hasrah’s family line produced a prophetess who influenced a king and a nation. This reflects the biblical theme of generational faithfulness (Deuteronomy 6:6-7; 2 Timothy 1:5).

2. The Ministry of the Prophets

Huldah, Hasrah’s granddaughter, belonged to a long line of prophets through whom God communicated with His people. Prophets called Israel to repentance, ultimately preparing hearts for the coming of Christ.

3. God’s Use of the Humble and Hidden

Hasrah is a background figure, but his mention proves that every person—regardless of fame—can play a role in God’s plan (1 Corinthians 1:27-29).

Reflection Questions

1. What spiritual legacy are you building for the next generation?

2. Are there faithful but unseen roles in your life where God may be working powerfully?

3. How can you encourage or support prophetic and truth-speaking voices in your community?

4. Are you investing in others with the hope that God will raise them up for future Kingdom purposes?

5. How does Hasrah’s mention remind you of the value God places on every individual in His plan of redemption?

Hasrah’s brief mention in Scripture encourages believers to be faithful in the everyday, trusting that God sees and uses even the most hidden lives for His glory.