Isaiah 38:21
For Isaiah had said, Let them take a lump of figs, and lay it for a plaister upon the boil, and he shall recover.
Original Language Analysis
יִשְׂא֖וּ
Let them take
H5375
יִשְׂא֖וּ
Let them take
Strong's:
H5375
Word #:
3 of 9
to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative
וְיִמְרְח֥וּ
and lay it for a plaister
H4799
וְיִמְרְח֥וּ
and lay it for a plaister
Strong's:
H4799
Word #:
6 of 9
properly, to soften by rubbing or pressure; hence (medicinally) to apply as an emollient
עַֽל
H5921
עַֽל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
7 of 9
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
Historical Context
Fig poultices were known treatments for skin conditions and boils in the ancient world. Archaeological evidence confirms ancient Near Eastern medical practices.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's use of natural means teach about the relationship between faith and medicine?
- What does this passage teach about false dichotomies between trusting God and using medical treatment?
- How should we view the role of doctors and medicine in light of God's sovereignty over healing?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The medical instruction "For Isaiah had said, Let them take a lump of figs, and lay it for a plaister upon the boil" shows God uses natural means alongside supernatural promises. The fig poultice was a recognized medicinal treatment. This demonstrates that trusting God doesn't exclude using medical wisdom—divine healing can work through natural remedies. The placement of this verse after Hezekiah's psalm shows the means didn't diminish God's credit for healing. Faith and medicine aren't contradictory but complementary.