King James Version
What Does 2 Kings 20:4 Mean?
“And it came to pass, afore Isaiah was gone out into the middle court , that the word of the LORD came to him, saying, court: or, city”
2 Kings 20:4 · KJV
Context
2
Then he turned his face to the wall, and prayed unto the LORD, saying,
3
I beseech thee, O LORD, remember now how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore. sore: Heb. with a great weeping
4
And it came to pass, afore Isaiah was gone out into the middle court , that the word of the LORD came to him, saying, court: or, city
5
Turn again, and tell Hezekiah the captain of my people, Thus saith the LORD, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will heal thee: on the third day thou shalt go up unto the house of the LORD.
6
And I will add unto thy days fifteen years; and I will deliver thee and this city out of the hand of the king of Assyria; and I will defend this city for mine own sake, and for my servant David's sake.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryAnd it came to pass, afore Isaiah was gone out into the middle court, that the word of the LORD came to him, saying,
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 20: God's mercy and human presumption. The divine name emphasizes Yahweh's covenant relationship with Israel and His sovereign control over historical events. 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.
This verse contributes to the overall theme of chapter 20: God's mercy and human presumption. The divine name emphasizes Yahweh's covenant relationship with Israel and His sovereign control over historical events. 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.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Historical Setting: 2 Kings 20 takes place during Hezekiah's reign in Judah, late 8th century BCE, around 715-686 BCE. The chapter's theme (Hezekiah's Illness and Recovery) 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.
Reflection Questions
- How does this verse contribute to understanding the theological message of 2 Kings 20 regarding god's mercy and human presumption?
- 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?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 11 wordsוַיְהִ֣י1 of 11
H1961to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
לֹ֣א3 of 11
H3808not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
יָצָ֔א4 of 11
“was gone out”
H3318to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim
הָצֵ֖יר5 of 11
“court”
H2691a yard (as inclosed by a fence); also a hamlet (as similarly surrounded with walls)
וּדְבַר7 of 11
“that the word”
H1697a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
יְהוָ֔ה8 of 11
“of the LORD”
H3068(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
הָיָ֥ה9 of 11
H1961to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 2 Kings. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
2 Kings 20:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 2 Kings 20:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge