2 Kings 22:19

19 When you heard my words against this place and its people, you became sorry for what you had done and humbled yourself before me. I said they would be cursed and would be destroyed. You tore your clothes to show how upset you were, and you cried in my presence. This is why I have heard you, says the Lord.

2 Kings 22:19 Meaning and Commentary

2 Kings 22:19

Because thine heart was tender
Soft like wax, and susceptible of impressions; or was "moved", or "trembled", as the Targum; for God has respect to such as are of contrite hearts, and tremble at his word, ( Isaiah 66:2 ) ,

and thou hast humbled thyself before the Lord;
external humiliation, such as in Ahab, was regarded by the Lord, much more internal and cordial humiliation is regarded by him, see ( 1 Kings 21:29 ) ,

when thou heardest what I spake against this place, and against the
inhabitants thereof, that they should become a desolation and a curse;
as in ( Leviticus 26:1 ) ( Deuteronomy 28:1 )

and hast rent thy clothes, and wept before me;
as expressive of the inward contrition, sorrow, and grief of his heart:

I also have heard thee, saith the Lord:
his cries and prayers.

2 Kings 22:19 In-Context

17 The people of Judah have left me and have burned incense to other gods. They have made me angry by all that they have done. My anger burns against this place like a fire, and it will not be put out.'

18 Tell the king of Judah, who sent you to ask the Lord, 'This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says about the words you heard:

19 When you heard my words against this place and its people, you became sorry for what you had done and humbled yourself before me. I said they would be cursed and would be destroyed. You tore your clothes to show how upset you were, and you cried in my presence. This is why I have heard you, says the Lord.

20 So I will let you die, and you will be buried in peace. You won't see all the trouble I will bring to this place.'" So they took her message back to the king.