2 Kings Chapter 20 · Verse 16
And Isaiah said unto Hezekiah, Hear the word of the LORD.
Original Language Analysis
חִזְקִיָּ֑הוּ
unto Hezekiah
H2396
חִזְקִיָּ֑הוּ
unto Hezekiah
Strong's:
H2396
Word #:
4 of 7
chizkijah, a king of judah, also the name of two other israelites
שְׁמַ֖ע
Hear
H8085
שְׁמַ֖ע
Hear
Strong's:
H8085
Word #:
5 of 7
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
Historical Context
Historical Setting: 2 Kings 20 takes place during Hezekiah's reign in Judah, late 8th century BCE, around 715-686 BCE. The chapter's theme (Hezekiah's Illness and Recovery) 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 20 regarding god's mercy and human presumption?
- 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
And Isaiah said unto Hezekiah, Hear the word of the LORD.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 20: God's mercy and human presumption. The divine name emphasizes Yahweh's covenant relationship with Israel and His sovereign control over historical events. 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.