Isaiah 37:15
And Hezekiah prayed unto the LORD, saying,
Original Language Analysis
וַיִּתְפַּלֵּל֙
prayed
H6419
וַיִּתְפַּלֵּל֙
prayed
Strong's:
H6419
Word #:
1 of 5
to judge (officially or mentally); by extension, to intercede, pray
חִזְקִיָּ֔הוּ
And Hezekiah
H2396
חִזְקִיָּ֔הוּ
And Hezekiah
Strong's:
H2396
Word #:
2 of 5
chizkijah, a king of judah, also the name of two other israelites
Historical Context
The cherubim referenced the ark's mercy seat where God's glory appeared (Exodus 25:22). This invocation reminded God of His covenant presence with Israel.
Questions for Reflection
- How does beginning prayer with worship and theology prepare our hearts for petition?
- Why is it important to ground prayer in God's character rather than immediately presenting needs?
- What attributes of God most encourage you when facing overwhelming circumstances?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Hezekiah's prayer begins with worship: addressing "O LORD of hosts, God of Israel, that dwellest between the cherubim" grounds his petition in God's character and covenant relationship. "Thou art the God, even thou alone" is confession of monotheism against Assyrian polytheism. The declaration "thou hast made heaven and earth" establishes God's creative authority over all existence. Right theology precedes right prayer—understanding who God is shapes what we ask and expect. Hezekiah doesn't begin with his problem but with God's supremacy.