In the light of the Chronicler’s high opinion of Hezekiah, and the miraculous divine response to Hezekiah’s prayer (v. 21), this unusual brevity should be seen as a tribute to Hezekiah. His devoted behaviour so far, and his address to the people on this very occasion (vv. 7–8), are such a perfect expression of faith and trust in the Lord that nothing more need be said about it. A mere statement of his prayer suffices to initiate the Lord’s response – expected and foreseen – in view of all that preceded
