18. As for the king himself, this is what I, the Lord God of Israel, say: you listened to what is written in the book,
19. and you repented and humbled yourself before me, tearing your clothes and weeping, when you heard how I threatened to punish Jerusalem and its people. I will make it a terrifying sight, a place whose name people will use as a curse. But I have heard your prayer,
20. and the punishment which I am going to bring on Jerusalem will not come until after your death. I will let you die in peace.”The men returned to King Josiah with this message.