מלכים ב, פרק י״ט, פסוק א׳

A leader’s response to an existential crisis and an attack on heaven's honor requires a profound mix of mourning, submission, and prayer. Upon hearing the boastful words of Rabshakeh, the representative of the massive Assyrian empire, the king takes immediate action. His initial reaction of tearing his garments is driven by deep shock and horror that God has been insulted and blasphemed [רד״ק, חומת אנך, אברבנאל].

Following this, the king dresses in sackcloth. While this serves as a traditional sign of mourning [ביאור שטיינזלץ], it also acts as a form of self-denial and physical affliction. By humbling himself and embracing this physical sorrow, the king hopes to awaken the mercy of God for himself, the people, and the city of Jerusalem [רד״ק, אברבנאל].

Finally, the king makes his way to the House of God. He goes to the Temple to offer a prayer, seeking divine help and salvation in the face of the impending threat [אברבנאל].