Does Mishneh Matter?

In the narrative in 2 Kings 22, Huldah plays a pivotal role in responding to King Josiah’s request to validate the newly discovered “Book of the Law.” Nevertheless, few details are revealed about this female prophet. The brief description of Huldah presents her as a ‮ נביאה ‬‎ dwelling at Mishneh in Jerusalem. Since it is unusual for a biblical narrator to comment on the specific section of the city where a prophet dwelt, this essay explores the significance of this reference to Mishneh. Drawing upon archaeological, historical, and exegetical studies, this article posits that Mishneh bears importance in 2 Kings 22 from both historiographical and hermeneutical standpoints, adding authenticity to the text and augmenting our understanding of Huldah’s social locus. This study maintains that Mishneh represents a peripheral space which Huldah occupies as both an insider and outsider.