2 Kings Chapter 18 · Verse 24
How then wilt thou turn away the face of one captain of the least of my master's servants, and put thy trust on Egypt for chariots and for horsemen?
Original Language Analysis
תָּשִׁ֗יב
How then wilt thou turn away
H7725
תָּשִׁ֗יב
How then wilt thou turn away
Strong's:
H7725
Word #:
2 of 15
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
אֵ֠ת
H853
אֵ֠ת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
3 of 15
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
פְּנֵ֨י
the face
H6440
פְּנֵ֨י
the face
Strong's:
H6440
Word #:
4 of 15
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
אֲדֹנִ֖י
of my master's
H113
אֲדֹנִ֖י
of my master's
Strong's:
H113
Word #:
8 of 15
sovereign, i.e., controller (human or divine)
הַקְּטַנִּ֑ים
of the least
H6996
הַקְּטַנִּ֑ים
of the least
Strong's:
H6996
Word #:
9 of 15
abbreviated, i.e., diminutive, literally (in quantity, size or number) or figuratively (in age or importance)
וַתִּבְטַ֤ח
and put thy trust
H982
וַתִּבְטַ֤ח
and put thy trust
Strong's:
H982
Word #:
10 of 15
properly, to hie for refuge (but not so precipitately as h2620); figuratively, to trust, be confident or sure
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
12 of 15
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
Cross References
Historical Context
Historical Setting: 2 Kings 18 takes place during Hezekiah's reign in Judah, late 8th century BCE, around 715-686 BCE. The chapter's theme (Hezekiah's Reforms and Assyrian Threat) reflects the historical reality of genuine religious reform under Hezekiah, including trust in God that resulted in miraculous deliverance from Assyria. Archaeological evidence from this period includes royal inscriptions, administrative documents, and material culture that corroborate the biblical account while providing additional context for understanding the political and social dynamics at work.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this verse contribute to understanding the theological message of 2 Kings 18 regarding faithful reformation faces external pressure?
- What does this passage reveal about God's character, particularly His justice, mercy, and faithfulness to covenant promises?
- In what practical ways should this text shape contemporary Christian thinking about faithfulness, worship, and obedience to God?
Analysis & Commentary
How then wilt thou turn away the face of one captain of the least of my master's servants, and put thy trust on Egypt for chariots and for horsemen?
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 18: Faithful reformation faces external pressure. In Judah's later history, we see both genuine reforms and deep-rooted corruption, revealing that external religious activity cannot substitute for heart transformation.
The narrative demonstrates God's justice in judging covenant unfaithfulness while maintaining His ultimate purposes for redemption.