Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, King Hezekiah of Judah is a prominent figure known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to restore proper worship in the kingdom. One of the most remarkable events in Hezekiah's life is the sign given to him by God, which is recorded in the books of 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles, and Isaiah.Context and Background Hezekiah reigned as king of Judah during a tumultuous period marked by the threat of Assyrian invasion. He is noted for his religious reforms, including the removal of high places, the destruction of idols, and the restoration of the Temple in Jerusalem. His reign is characterized by a return to the worship of Yahweh, as he sought to lead his people in accordance with the covenantal laws. The Illness of Hezekiah The account of the sign begins with Hezekiah falling gravely ill. The prophet Isaiah, son of Amoz, is sent by God to deliver a message to the king: "Thus says the LORD: 'Set your house in order, for you are about to die; you will not recover.'" (2 Kings 20:1). Upon hearing this, Hezekiah turns his face to the wall and prays earnestly, reminding God of his faithfulness and wholehearted devotion. God's Response and the Promise of Healing Moved by Hezekiah's prayer and tears, God instructs Isaiah to return to the king with a new message: "I have heard your prayer; I have seen your tears. Behold, I will heal you. On the third day, you will go up to the house of the LORD. And I will add fifteen years to your life." (2 Kings 20:5-6). Additionally, God promises to deliver Hezekiah and the city of Jerusalem from the hand of the Assyrian king. The Sign Requested by Hezekiah Desiring confirmation of this promise, Hezekiah asks for a sign. Isaiah offers him a choice: "Shall the shadow go forward ten steps, or shall it go back ten steps?" (2 Kings 20:9). Hezekiah chooses the latter, reasoning that it is a greater miracle for the shadow to retreat. The Sign Given In response to Hezekiah's request, God performs a miraculous sign: "So Isaiah the prophet called out to the LORD, and He brought the shadow back ten steps, the steps it had descended on the stairway of Ahaz." (2 Kings 20:11). This supernatural event serves as a divine confirmation of God's promise to heal Hezekiah and extend his life. Theological Significance The sign given to Hezekiah underscores several key theological themes. It highlights God's sovereignty over creation, as He alone can alter the natural order. The event also emphasizes God's responsiveness to sincere prayer and repentance, demonstrating His compassion and willingness to intervene in the lives of His faithful servants. Furthermore, the sign serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, reinforcing the trustworthiness of His word. Related Passages The account of Hezekiah's sign is paralleled in Isaiah 38:1-8 and 2 Chronicles 32:24. These passages provide additional insights into Hezekiah's character and the broader context of his reign. The narrative of Hezekiah's illness and the sign is a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, prayer, and reliance on God's providence. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 20:8And Hezekiah said to Isaiah, What shall be the sign that the LORD will heal me, and that I shall go up into the house of the LORD the third day? Nave's Topical Index Library Appendix iii in the Hampton Court Conference. The Miracles Refutation of the Jews Index of Subjects. Of Baptism. Pride and Humility Pride and Humility Of the Sacraments. Another Wonderful Record of 25. The Creation of Luminous Bodies. Resources Sign of the cross - what is the meaning? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the purpose of the biblical sign gifts? | GotQuestions.org What is the sign of Jonah? | GotQuestions.org Sign: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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