We have here introduced to us Jeremiah, whose prophetical writings make so important a part in the sacred canon of scripture. This prophet began his ministry in the 13th year of Josiah, and continued it until the carrying away of the people into Babylon. The character of Josiah cannot be better ascertained than by his lamentation of Judah. For though the times were so degenerate, yet Josiah was dear to them.
But no doubt the gracious souls lamented his death, in that they considered it as a certain presage that ruin was at hand. The righteous is taken away (saith the prophet) from the evil to come. Isaiah 57:1.