King James Version
What Does Isaiah 37:13 Mean?
“Where is the king of Hamath, and the king of Arphad, and the king of the city of Sepharvaim, Hena, and Ivah?”
Isaiah 37:13 · KJV
Context
11
Behold, thou hast heard what the kings of Assyria have done to all lands by destroying them utterly; and shalt thou be delivered?
12
Have the gods of the nations delivered them which my fathers have destroyed, as Gozan, and Haran, and Rezeph, and the children of Eden which were in Telassar?
13
Where is the king of Hamath, and the king of Arphad, and the king of the city of Sepharvaim, Hena, and Ivah?
14
And Hezekiah received the letter from the hand of the messengers, and read it: and Hezekiah went up unto the house of the LORD, and spread it before the LORD.
15
And Hezekiah prayed unto the LORD, saying,
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThe continued list—"Where is the king of Hamath, the king of Arphad, king of the city of Sepharvaim, Hena, Ivah?"—hammers home the message: all resistance fails. By mentioning kings specifically, Sennacherib emphasizes that even royal power cannot withstand Assyria. This comprehensive catalogue of defeated enemies demonstrates thorough preparation for psychological warfare. However, the very length of the list reveals Assyria's pride—boasting in conquest becomes an opportunity for God to humble the proud.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Archaeological records confirm Assyrian conquests of these territories. The precision of the list shows Sennacherib's genuine historical accomplishments, making his eventual defeat more dramatically demonstrate God's power.
Reflection Questions
- How does the enemy's genuine past success sometimes become the setup for God's greater glory?
- What role does human pride play in setting up divine judgment?
- How should we view impressive human achievements in light of God's ultimate sovereignty?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 10 wordsלָעִ֣יר7 of 10
“of the city”
H5892a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Isaiah. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Isaiah 37:13 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 Isaiah 37:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge