1 After these things and these acts of faithfulness, Sennacherib king of Assyria came and invaded Judah and encamped against the fortified cities, thinking to win them for himself.
2 And when Hezekiah saw that Sennacherib had come and intended to fight against Jerusalem,
3 he planned with his officers and his mighty men to stop the water of the springs that were outside the city; and they helped him.
4 And they assembled at Jerusalem in the third month of the fifteenth year of the reign of Asa.
5 He set to work resolutely and built up all the wall that was broken down and raised towers upon it, and outside it he built another wall, and he strengthened the Millo in the city of David. He also made weapons and shields in abundance.
6 He set to work resolutely and built up all the wall that was broken down and raised towers upon it, and outside it he built another wall, and he strengthened the Millo in the city of David. He also made weapons and shields in abundance.
7 “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or dismayed before the king of Assyria and all the horde that is with him, for there are more with us than with him.”
8 With him is an arm of flesh, but with us is the Lord our God, to help us and to fight our battles.” And the people took confidence from the words of Hezekiah king of Judah.
9 After this, Sennacherib king of Assyria, who was besieging Lachish with all his forces, sent his servants to Jerusalem to Hezekiah king of Judah and to all the people of Judah who were in Jerusalem, saying,
10 “Thus says Sennacherib king of Assyria, ‘On what are you trusting, that you endure the siege in Jerusalem?
11 Does not Hezekiah mislead you, that he may give you over to die by famine and by thirst, when he tells you, “The Lord our God will deliver us from the hand of the king of Assyria”?
12 Has not the same Hezekiah taken away his high places and his altars and commanded Judah and Jerusalem, saying, “You shall worship before one altar and burn incense on it”?
13 Do you not know what I and my fathers have done to all the peoples of other lands? Were the gods of the nations of those lands at all able to deliver their lands out of my hand?
14 Who among all the gods of those nations that my fathers devoted to destruction was able to deliver his people from my hand, that your God should be able to deliver you from my hand?
15 Now, therefore, do not let Hezekiah deceive you or mislead you in this fashion, and do not believe him, for no god of any nation or kingdom has been able to deliver his people from my hand or from the hand of my fathers. How much less will your God deliver you out of my hand!”
16 And his servants said still more against the Lord God and against his servant Hezekiah.
17 He also wrote letters to cast contempt on the Lord, the God of Israel, and to speak against him, saying, “As the gods of the nations of the lands have not delivered their people from my hand, so the God of Hezekiah will not deliver his people from my hand.”
18 And they shouted it with a loud voice in the language of Judah to the people of Jerusalem who were on the wall, to frighten and terrify them, in order that they might take the city.
19 And they spoke of the God of Jerusalem as they spoke of the gods of the peoples of the earth, which are the work of men’s hands.
20 Then Hezekiah the king and Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, prayed because of this and cried to heaven.
21 And the Lord sent an angel, who cut off all the mighty warriors and commanders and officers in the camp of the king of Assyria. So he returned with shame to his own land. And when he came into the house of his god, some of his own sons struck him down there with the sword.
22 So the Lord saved Hezekiah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem from the hand of Sennacherib king of Assyria and from the hand of all his enemies, and he provided for them on every side.
23 And many brought gifts to the Lord to Jerusalem and precious things to Hezekiah king of Judah, so that he was exalted in the sight of all nations from that time onward.
24 In those days Hezekiah became sick and was at the point of death, and he prayed to the Lord, and he answered him and gave him a sign.
25 But Hezekiah did not make return according to the benefit done to him, for his heart was proud. Therefore wrath came upon him and Judah and Jerusalem.
26 Then Hezekiah humbled himself for the pride of his heart, he and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so that the wrath of the Lord did not come upon them in the days of Hezekiah.
27 And Hezekiah had very great riches and honor, and he made for himself treasuries for silver, for gold, for precious stones, for spices, for shields, and for all kinds of costly vessels;
28 storehouses also for the yield of grain, wine, and oil; and stalls for all kinds of cattle, and sheepfolds.
29 Moreover, he provided cities for himself, and flocks and herds in abundance, for God had given him very great possessions.
30 This same Hezekiah closed the upper outlet of the waters of Gihon and directed them down to the west side of the city of David. And Hezekiah prospered in all his works.
31 And so in the matter of the envoys of the princes of Babylon, who had been sent to him to inquire about the sign that had been done in the land, God left him to himself, in order to test him and to know all that was in his heart.
32 Now the rest of the acts of Hezekiah and his good deeds, behold, they are written in the vision of Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz, in the Book of the Kings of Judah and Israel.
33 And Hezekiah slept with his fathers, and they buried him in the upper part of the tombs of the sons of David, and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem did him honor at his death. And Manasseh his son reigned in his place.
The True Meaning of 2 Chronicles 32
The Book of 2 Chronicles was written by an anonymous author, likely a Levite priest or scribe, who compiled historical accounts of the kingdom of Judah after the reign of King David. This chapter focuses on the events surrounding the reign of King Hezekiah, a righteous ruler who faced a grave threat from the Assyrian empire. Hezekiah’s preparations for the impending Assyrian invasion, his reliance on God’s protection, and the miraculous deliverance that follows are witnessed in this passage. The chapter also foreshadows the eventual downfall of Hezekiah’s son, Manasseh, who would later lead Judah astray. This serves as a sobering reminder that even the most faithful kings could not ensure the lasting obedience of the people to God’s commands.
The events described in 2 Chronicles 32 are also echoed in the accounts found in 2 Kings 18-19 and Isaiah 36-37, providing a multi-faceted perspective on this pivotal moment in Judah’s history. As we delve into this chapter, Hezekiah’s unwavering faith in the Lord ultimately triumphed over the might of the Assyrian empire, foreshadowing the ultimate victory of God’s people over the forces of evil.
2 Chronicles 32:1-8
Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, invaded Judah and surrounded the fortified cities with the intention to conquer them, as mentioned in 2 Chronicles 32:1-8. King Hezekiah, who was ruling in Judah at that time, took practical steps to prepare for the imminent attack. He consulted with his leaders and commanders to stop the water sources outside the city gates, so as to deny the Assyrians access to water during the invasion.
This strategic decision by King Hezekiah reflects his wisdom and foresight in anticipating the enemy’s moves and taking action to protect his people. It also demonstrates his leadership skills in mobilizing his officials and soldiers for the impending battle. The act of stopping the water sources was a tactical move to weaken the enemy’s position and ensure the safety of Jerusalem.
This event is a powerful reminder of the importance of preparation and foresight in facing challenges. It highlights the principle of being proactive and taking steps to protect oneself against potential threats. Believers face a spiritual battle, and it serves as a lesson in a broader sense, reminding them to be vigilant and prepared for the schemes of the enemy (Ephesians 6:12).
Furthermore, this passage showcases the faith of King Hezekiah in God’s deliverance. Despite the daunting size and strength of the Assyrian army, Hezekiah encouraged his people by reminding them of God’s presence with them. He assured them that they were not alone in the face of adversity, and that the Lord would fight on their behalf.
Hezekiah’s faith and reliance on God serve as a model for believers in trusting in the power and faithfulness of God, even in the midst of seemingly insurmountable challenges. This narrative echoes the message of Psalm 46:1, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble,” emphasizing the assurance that God is our ultimate protector and defender. These verses in 2 Chronicles 32 depict a historical account that carries timeless lessons for believers today. They underscore the significance of strategic planning, leadership, faith in God’s deliverance, and the importance of being spiritually prepared for the battles of life. We too can find strength and assurance in God’s presence and protection amidst our own trials and tribulations, just as Hezekiah faced the threat of invasion with courage and faith.
2 Chronicles 32:9-19
Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, intimidates King Hezekiah of Judah and his people in 2 Chronicles 32:9-19. Sennacherib sends his envoys to Jerusalem with a message of fear and despair, attempting to demoralize the Israelites and convince them that their God cannot save them from Assyrian domination. The Assyrian officials speak in the language of the people of Judah, aiming to spread fear and doubt among them.
Hezekiah and his officials respond by encouraging the people and reminding them to be strong and courageous, trusting in the Lord their God rather than fearing the power of the Assyrian army. They recognize that the Assyrian forces are merely human, while their God is the one true God who has the power to deliver them from any threat. Hezekiah’s faith in God enables him to stand firm against the intimidating tactics of the Assyrians.
This passage highlights the contrast between faith and fear, with Hezekiah embodying unwavering faith in God despite the overwhelming odds stacked against him. The story serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God’s power and promises, even in the face of formidable challenges. Hezekiah’s response also sets an example for believers to turn to God in times of trouble, seeking strength and guidance through prayer and faith.
This account of Hezekiah’s defiance against the Assyrians is a testament to the biblical theme of God’s faithfulness and protection over His people. Throughout the Bible, there are numerous instances where God delivers His followers from seemingly insurmountable situations, reinforcing the message that nothing is impossible for Him. For example, in Psalm 46:1-3, it says, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.” This passage echoes the sentiment of Hezekiah’s response to the Assyrian threats, emphasizing the steadfastness of those who trust in God.
Furthermore, the narrative in 2 Chronicles 32:9-19 underscores the importance of leadership in times of crisis. Hezekiah’s leadership in encouraging his people to trust in God sets a powerful example for rulers to lead with faith and conviction. Leaders who anchor themselves in faith can inspire and rally their followers, fostering resilience and unity in the face of adversity. This principle resonates throughout the Bible, with figures like Moses, David, and Esther exemplifying courageous leadership guided by faith in God’s providence. The passage in 2 Chronicles 32:9-19 provides a profound illustration of the clash between faith and fear, emphasizing the transformative power of unwavering trust in God. Hezekiah’s response to the Assyrian threat showcases the resilience and courage that arise from a deep-seated faith in God’s promises. This narrative serves as a timeless message for believers to anchor themselves in God’s strength, turning to Him as their ultimate source of protection and deliverance in the face of adversity.
2 Chronicles 32:20-23
A pivotal moment during the reign of King Hezekiah in Judah is seen in 2 Chronicles 32:20-23. Let’s break down these verses into important sections to understand their significance.
Firstly, in verse 20, we are told that King Hezekiah and the prophet Isaiah, the son of Amoz, cried out in prayer to heaven. This act of turning to God in prayer amidst a dire situation reveals the faith and dependence Hezekiah had in God. The presence of Isaiah, a prominent prophet in Judah known for his unwavering faith and staunch commitment to God, emphasizes the importance of seeking divine intervention in times of trouble. This collaboration between the king and the prophet signifies a unified effort to seek help from the Almighty, underscoring the power of collective prayer and faith.
Moving on to verse 21, we encounter the response of the Lord to Hezekiah’s earnest prayer. The verse states that the Lord sent an angel who annihilated all the fighting men and the leaders and officers in the Assyrian camp. This divine intervention showcases God’s omnipotence and His ability to protect His people in the face of overwhelming odds. The defeat of the Assyrian forces by a single angel highlights the supernatural and unmatched power of God, demonstrating that victory ultimately comes from Him. This event serves as a reminder that God is not limited by human constraints and that He can deliver His people from any threat they face.
Lastly, in verse 22-23, we witness the aftermath of the miraculous deliverance orchestrated by God. It is described that Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, withdrew in disgrace to his own land and was later killed by his own sons. This outcome serves as a testament to the consequences of defying the will of God and His chosen people. Sennacherib’s humiliating retreat and eventual demise reflect the justice and judgment of God upon those who oppose His plans. This event also illustrates the fulfillment of the prophecy given to Hezekiah by Isaiah, where God assured the king that He would defend the city for His own sake and for the sake of His servant David (2 Chronicles 32:22). These verses in 2 Chronicles 32 symbolize the enduring theme of faith, prayer, divine intervention, and ultimate victory found throughout the Bible. They showcase the power of trusting in God, the effectiveness of seeking His guidance through prayer, and the assurance of His protection even in the face of formidable enemies. The story of Hezekiah and the deliverance from the Assyrian threat serves as a powerful reminder that God is sovereign and that those who stand firm in their faith will witness His mighty acts and experience His faithfulness.
2 Chronicles 32:24-26
The passage in 2 Chronicles 32:24-26 focuses on King Hezekiah’s illness and recovery. Let’s break down this verse into important sections for a detailed commentary:
- Hezekiah became ill and was at the point of death in those days. He prayed to the LORD, who answered him and gave him a miraculous sign.”
This section highlights a significant moment in the life of King Hezekiah when he falls severely ill. Despite facing a life-threatening situation, Hezekiah turns to the Lord in prayer. This act reflects a crucial aspect of faith shown by Hezekiah in times of distress. He doesn’t rely on his own strength or seek worldly solutions but chooses to seek divine intervention through prayer. The Bible often portrays prayer as a vital link between humanity and God, emphasizing the power of seeking God’s help in times of trouble. Hezekiah’s faithfulness in prayer sets an example for believers to turn to God in their moments of need.
- “But Hezekiah’s heart was proud and he did not respond to the kindness shown him; therefore the LORD’s wrath was on him and on Judah and Jerusalem.”
This section introduces a complex aspect of Hezekiah’s character – his pride. Despite his faithfulness in seeking God’s help during his illness, Hezekiah struggles with pride, which leads him to not respond humbly to the kindness shown to him by God. The concept of pride leading to downfall is a recurring theme in the Bible. Proverbs 16:18 states, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall,” emphasizing the destructive nature of pride. Hezekiah’s struggle with pride serves as a cautionary tale, reminding believers of the importance of humility and gratitude, even in times of blessing.
- “Then Hezekiah repented of the pride of his heart, as did the people of Jerusalem; therefore, the LORD’s wrath did not come on them during the days of Hezekiah.”
This section illustrates the importance of repentance and humility in Hezekiah’s story. After being confronted with his pride and its consequences, Hezekiah repents before God. His act of repentance not only impacts him personally but also has a positive effect on the people of Jerusalem. The power of repentance and humility to avert divine punishment is a recurring theme in the Bible. 2 Chronicles 7:14 emphasizes this idea, stating, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin.” Hezekiah’s repentance highlights the mercy and forgiveness of God when sincere repentance is shown. The passage in 2 Chronicles 32:24-26 delves into the themes of faith, pride, repentance, and divine mercy. Through the story of Hezekiah’s illness and recovery, readers are reminded of the power of prayer, the dangers of pride, and the importance of humility and repentance in the sight of God. The narrative serves as a lesson for believers to trust in God’s provision, guard against pride, and seek forgiveness through genuine repentance.
2 Chronicles 32:27-31
The verses in 2 Chronicles 32:27-31 narrate the events surrounding King Hezekiah of Judah towards the end of his life. Let’s break down this passage into sections for a detailed commentary.
Verse 27 states, “Hezekiah had very great wealth and honor, and he made treasuries for his silver and gold and for his precious stones, spices, shields, and all kinds of valuables.” This verse highlights the prosperity that God had bestowed upon King Hezekiah. Through his faithfulness and trust in the Lord, Hezekiah experienced abundant wealth and honor. This passage reminds us of the biblical principle that honoring God and walking in obedience to His commands can lead to blessings and prosperity as seen in Proverbs 3:9-10: “Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce. Then he will fill your barns with grain, and your vats will overflow with good wine.”
Verse 28 continues, “He also made buildings to store the harvest of grain, new wine, and olive oil; and he made stalls for various kinds of cattle, and pens for the flocks.” This verse illustrates King Hezekiah’s wisdom in managing the resources that God had provided. He was not only concerned with accumulating wealth for himself but also with ensuring the well-being of his people by storing essential provisions. This serves as a lesson for us today to use the blessings we receive not just for our benefit but also for the welfare of others, echoing Jesus’ teachings about stewardship in Luke 12:48: “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.”
Verse 29 mentions, “He built villages and acquired great numbers of flocks and herds, for God had given him very great wealth.” Here, we see that Hezekiah’s expansion and multiplication of his possessions were ultimately attributed to God’s favor upon him. Despite his material success, Hezekiah recognized that everything he had came from God. This aligns with the biblical truth found in James 1:17: “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”
Finally, in verses 30-31, it states, “It was Hezekiah who blocked the upper outlet of the Gihon spring and channeled the water down to the west side of the City of David. He succeeded in everything he undertook.” These verses highlight Hezekiah’s strategic military preparations to fortify Jerusalem’s defenses against the Assyrian invasion under King Sennacherib. The redirection of the water source was part of Hezekiah’s efforts to secure the city’s water supply during the siege. Despite facing immense external threats, Hezekiah’s faith in God’s protection and his wise leadership led to the successful defense of Jerusalem, showcasing the power of relying on God in times of trouble. “The Lord rests victory on the day of battle after the horse is made ready, as stated in Proverbs 21:31.” 2 Chronicles 32:27-31 provides us with valuable insights into the life of King Hezekiah, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness, stewardship, gratitude, and reliance on God in both times of prosperity and adversity. Hezekiah’s story serves as a beacon of inspiration for believers today, urging us to trust in God wholeheartedly, acknowledge His provision in our lives, and seek His wisdom in all our endeavors.
2 Chronicles 32:32-33
The text in 2 Chronicles 32:32-33 reads: “Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz wrote about the rest of the acts of Hezekiah and his good deeds in the Book of the Kings of Judah and Israel.” And Hezekiah slept with his fathers, and they buried him in the upper part of the tombs of the sons of David; and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem did him honor at his death. And Manasseh his son reigned in his place.”
This passage serves as the conclusion to the narrative of King Hezekiah’s reign. It highlights the testimonies of Hezekiah’s accomplishments and virtuous deeds, which are recorded in the vision of the prophet Isaiah and the historical records of the kings of Judah and Israel. The reference to Isaiah the prophet is significant as Isaiah was a major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his prophecies concerning Judah, Israel, and the coming Messiah. Through this, the verse emphasizes the divine approval and recognition of Hezekiah’s reign, as his deeds were noted by both a contemporary prophet and the official records of the kingdom.
The phrase “Hezekiah slept with his fathers” is a common biblical euphemism for death, indicating that Hezekiah passed away and was buried in the royal tombs, showing respect for his lineage as a descendant of David. The fact that “all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem did him honor at his death” underscores the esteem and admiration with which Hezekiah was regarded by his people. This response reflects Hezekiah’s commitment to reviving the worship of the one true God during his reign, leading the people away from idolatry and back to the commandments of the Lord.
The mention of Hezekiah’s son, Manasseh, succeeding him on the throne introduces a new chapter in Judah’s history. While Hezekiah was known for his faithfulness and reforms, unfortunately, his son Manasseh will be remembered for his wickedness and leading the nation into great sin. The stark contrast between these two rulers serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of righteous leadership and the consequences of turning away from God. This succession from a righteous king to a wicked one reflects a recurring theme in the Bible, emphasizing the impact of leadership on the spiritual and moral condition of a nation. It also highlights the spiritual responsibility that leaders have in influencing the direction of their people, as seen through the actions of Hezekiah and Manasseh.
This passage from 2 Chronicles 32 not only serves as a historical account of the reign of King Hezekiah but also provides timeless lessons about leadership, faithfulness, and the enduring consequences of one’s actions. It showcases the importance of righteous living, the honor accorded to those who follow the ways of God, and the dangers of straying from His path. The transition from Hezekiah to Manasseh serves as a dramatic illustration of the profound impact of leadership choices and the need for individuals and nations to prioritize obedience to God.
After 2 Chronicles 32
The people of Judah had endured a great trial. King Hezekiah had led them through a time of crisis, standing firm against the mighty Assyrian army. Yet, as the chapter draws to a close, we are left with a sobering reminder. Even the most righteous of leaders cannot shield us from the consequences of our own actions. Pride crept into Hezekiah’s heart in the final days of his reign. He displayed his wealth and power to envoys from Babylon, forgetting that all he had was a gift from the Lord. This act of vanity would have lasting repercussions, setting in motion a chain of events that would ultimately lead to the downfall of Judah. We must heed this cautionary tale as we turn the page and enter the next chapter. For even the most faithful can stumble, and it is only by remaining humble and steadfast in our devotion to God that we can hope to weather the storms that lie ahead.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.