What does turned into stone mean?

Question

I was reading the Iliad, and it said Niobe turned into stone after 9 days of grieving of his children's death...what does that mean? Did he die?

Answer 1

Not knowing the lliad, I would think that after his grieving on the 9th day his heard turned cold / hard like a stone. His grieving was over so to speak. No I would not think he died...but could go on with his life.

Answer 2

it means he doesnt care anymore or should i say he became passive emotionally

Answer 3

maybe it means emitionally.