2 Kings Chapter 18 · Verse 36
But the people held their peace, and answered him not a word: for the king's commandment was, saying, Answer him not.
Original Language Analysis
וְהֶֽחֱרִ֣ישׁוּ
held their peace
H2790
וְהֶֽחֱרִ֣ישׁוּ
held their peace
Strong's:
H2790
Word #:
1 of 13
to scratch, i.e., (by implication) to engrave, plough; hence (from the use of tools) to fabricate (of any material); figuratively, to devise (in a bad
הָעָ֔ם
But the people
H5971
הָעָ֔ם
But the people
Strong's:
H5971
Word #:
2 of 13
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
וְלֹֽא
H3808
וְלֹֽא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
3 of 13
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
תַֽעֲנֻֽהוּ׃
Answer
H6030
תַֽעֲנֻֽהוּ׃
Answer
Strong's:
H6030
Word #:
4 of 13
properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,
אֹת֖וֹ
H853
אֹת֖וֹ
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
5 of 13
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
דָּבָ֑ר
him not a word
H1697
דָּבָ֑ר
him not a word
Strong's:
H1697
Word #:
6 of 13
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
7 of 13
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
מִצְוַ֨ת
commandment
H4687
מִצְוַ֨ת
commandment
Strong's:
H4687
Word #:
8 of 13
a command, whether human or divine (collectively, the law)
הִ֛יא
H1931
הִ֛יא
Strong's:
H1931
Word #:
10 of 13
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
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
But the people held their peace, and answered him not a word: for the king's commandment was, saying, Answer him not.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 18: Faithful reformation faces external pressure. The reference to kingship reminds readers that all human authority is subordinate to God's ultimate kingship. 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.