Ben Sira 50:1-6

1 THE memory of Josias is like the composition of a sweet smell made by the art of a perfumer:

2 His remembrance shall be sweet as honey in every mouth, and as music at a banquet of wine.

3 He was directed by God unto the repentance of the nation, and he took away the abominations of wickedness.

4 And he directed his heart towards the Lord, and in the days of sinners he strengthened godliness.

5 Except David, and Ezechias, and Josias, all committed sin.

6 For the kings of Juda forsook the law of the most High, and despised the fear of God.