35:20-27 The Scripture does not condemn Josiah's conduct in opposing Pharaoh. Yet Josiah seems to deserve blame for not inquiring of the Lord after he was warned; his death might be a rebuke for his rashness, but it was a judgment on a hypocritical and wicked people. He that lives a life of repentance, faith, and obedience, cannot be affected by the sudden manner in which he is removed. The people lamented him. Many mourn over sufferings, who will not forsake the sins that caused God to send them. Yet this alone can turn away judgments. If we blame Josiah's conduct, we should be watchful, lest we be cut down in a way dishonourable to our profession.
And the archers shot at King Josiah,.... For, though disguised, he appeared to be a general officer, and indeed chief commander, and therefore aimed at him, and pressed him hard:
and the king said to his servants, have me away, for I am wounded; as Ahab said, when in the like case, 1 Kings 22:34.
Have me away.--LXX., ????????? ??. "Take me out" (of the war-chariot).
For I am sore wounded.--So Ahab. (2 Chronicles 18:33).
and the king said to his servants, have me away, for I am wounded; as Ahab said, when in the like case, 1 Kings 22:34.