Albert Barnes Commentary Isaiah 37:2

"And he sent Eliakim, who was over the household, and Shebna the scribe, and the elders of the priests, covered with sackcloth, unto Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz." — Isaiah 37:2 (ASV)

And he sent Eliakim - (See the note at Isaiah 36:3).

And the elders of the priests - It was a case of deep importance, and one that pertained especially to the interests of religion; and he, therefore, selected the most respectable delegation that he could to present the case to the prophet.

Covered with sackcloth - Religion had been insulted. The God whom the priests served had been blasphemed, and the very temple was threatened, and it was proper that the priests should go with the garments of mourning.

To Isaiah - It was customary on occasions of danger to consult prophets, as those who had direct communication with God, and seek counsel from them. Thus Balak sent messengers to Balaam to consult him in a time of perplexity (Numbers 22:5 and following); thus Jehoshaphat and the king of Israel consulted Micaiah in time of danger from Syria 1 Kings 22:1–13; thus Ahaziah, when sick, sent to consult Elijah 2 Kings 1:1–9; and thus Josiah sent a delegation to Huldah the prophetess to inquire about the book which was found in the temple of the Lord 2 Kings 22:14.