Isaiah 37:16
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 37:16
16 O LORD of hosts, God of Israel, that dwellest between the cherubims, thou art the God, even thou alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth: thou hast made heaven and earth.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 37 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of wisdom, prayer, faith. Written during the Assyrian and pre-exilic periods (c. 740-680 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed Judah during Assyria's rise, Babylon's threat, and anticipated restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-38: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Isaiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Isaiah 37:16
16 O LORD of hosts, God of Israel, that dwellest between the cherubims, thou art the God, even thou alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth: thou hast made heaven and earth.
Analysis
The petition "Incline thine ear, O LORD" and "open thine eyes" uses anthropomorphic language—God doesn't literally have ears or eyes needing attention, but this vivid imagery expresses the prayer for divine attention and action. "See" emphasizes that God should observe Sennacherib's blasphemy. The phrase "all the words of Sennacherib, which hath sent to reproach the living God" correctly identifies the core offense—not threat to Judah but insult to God's honor. Hezekiah wisely appeals to God's jealousy for His own glory.
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern prayers often included similar appeals for divine attention. However, Hezekiah prays to the living God, not dead idols that truly cannot hear.
Reflection
- How does appealing to God's honor and glory strengthen our prayers?
- What does it mean that attacks on God's people are ultimately attacks on God Himself?
- How should we frame our needs in light of God's greater purposes and glory?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- Kingdom: Psalms 99:1
- References God: 1 Samuel 4:4, Psalms 86:10
- References Lord: Isaiah 44:24
- References Israel: Exodus 25:22, Psalms 80:1
- Creation: John 1:3, Colossians 1:16
- Parallel theme: Hebrews 4:16