How do I invoke a private static method using reflection (Java)?

Question

I would like to invoke a private static method. I have its name. I\'ve heard it can be done using Java reflection mechanism. How can I do it?

EDIT:

Answer 1

I use a single method that encapsulates getting the target method and then invoking it. Probably has some limitations, of course. Here is the method put into a class and its JUnit test:

public class Invoker {
/**
 * Get method and invoke it.
 * 
 * @author jbetancourt
 * 
 * @param name of method
 * @param obj Object to invoke the method on
 * @param types parameter types of method
 * @param args to method invocation
 * @return return value
 * @throws Exception for unforseen stuff
 */
public static final  Object invokeMethod(final String name, final T obj,
  final Class[] types, final Object... args) throws Exception {

    Method method = obj.getClass().getDeclaredMethod(name, types);
    method.setAccessible(true);
    return method.invoke(obj, args);
}

/**
 * Embedded JUnit tests.
 */
@RunWith(JUnit4.class)
public static class InvokerTest {
    /** */
    @Test
    public void testInvoke() throws Exception {
        class TestTarget {
            private String hello() {
                return "Hello world!";
            }
        }

        String actual = (String) Invoker.invokeMethod("hello",
                new TestTarget(), new Class[] {});
        String expected = "Hello world!";
        assertThat(actual, is(expected));

    }
}

}