Definition: And he did [that which was] evil in the sight of the LORD, as his father Manasseh did.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Kings 21:20. It's a really important and somewhat sad part of the story of King Josiah. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse tells us that King Josiah did something incredibly wrong – something that was truly wicked – as his father, Manasseh, did. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And he did [that which was] evil…” : This is the core of the message. It means Josiah acted in a way that violated God's laws and principles. It wasn’t just a small mistake; it was a significant transgression. "...in the sight of the LORD.” : This is crucial. The Bible says that God saw this evil action. It wasn't just that Josiah did something wrong; he did it in His presence – before Him, as a witness. It’s a humbling acknowledgment of God's judgment. “as his father Manasseh did.” : This is the key comparison. Manasseh was a king who did things that were considered bad by God. He prioritized pleasure and comfort over justice and righteousness. Josiah’s actions are being compared to what Manasseh did – essentially, a repeat of a morally flawed path. What does this mean in practice? This verse points to a period of serious moral decline within Josiah's kingdom. It suggests that he wasn't just making mistakes; he was actively choosing to disobey God’s commands and prioritize his own desires over the well-being of his people and the law of God. Why is this significant? This verse highlights a crucial warning about the dangers of disobedience and idolatry (worshiping other gods). It suggests that even powerful kings can fall into sin if they don't remain steadfastly devoted to God’s will. It’s a reminder that obedience and righteousness are essential for maintaining a relationship with God. In short, it's saying that Josiah made a terrible choice – one that was judged by God and ultimately led to consequences. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further in more detail? Give you a historical context of the time? Discuss what this verse might suggest about Josiah's reign?