And it came to pass, when the king had heard the words of the law, that he rent his clothes.
When the king heard the words of the law being read, he tore his clothes.
King Josiah was so deeply moved and distressed by hearing God's law that he tore his clothes as an expression of grief and repentance.
📚 Historical Context
In the 7th century BC, King Josiah of Judah ascended to the throne at a young age and initiated reforms to restore proper worship of God, including repairing the long-neglected temple. During these renovations, the Book of the Law, likely Deuteronomy, was discovered, revealing how far the nation had strayed from God's commands. Upon hearing the words read aloud, Josiah tore his clothes as a public sign of grief and repentance for the people's widespread disobedience.
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