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2 Chronicles 32 meaning explained in AI Summary

This chapter recounts Hezekiah's preparations for and defense against Sennacherib's Assyrian invasion, highlighting Hezekiah's faith and God's deliverance.

Key Events:

  • Preparing for Siege (vv. 1-8): Anticipating Sennacherib's attack, Hezekiah strengthens Jerusalem's defenses, securing the water supply, fortifying walls, and rallying the people with a powerful speech emphasizing God's protection.
  • Sennacherib's Threats (vv. 9-23): Sennacherib sends his commander, Rabshakeh, to demoralize Jerusalem with threats and insults, questioning their reliance on God and Hezekiah's leadership. Despite the blasphemous taunts, Hezekiah urges the people to remain silent and trust in God.
  • Isaiah's Prophecy (vv. 20-22): Hezekiah seeks guidance from the prophet Isaiah, who assures him of God's protection and Sennacherib's downfall. Isaiah prophesies that God will defend Jerusalem and humiliate the Assyrian king.
  • Divine Intervention (vv. 24-33): Sennacherib continues his psychological warfare with threatening letters. Hezekiah prays for deliverance in the temple, and God answers through Isaiah, reaffirming His promise to protect Jerusalem. That night, an angel of the Lord strikes down 185,000 Assyrian soldiers, forcing Sennacherib to retreat in disgrace.
  • Hezekiah's Pride and Repentance (vv. 25-26): After the victory, Hezekiah experiences a period of pride, which he later repents of, receiving God's forgiveness.
  • Hezekiah's Prosperity and Legacy (vv. 27-33): The chapter concludes by highlighting Hezekiah's wealth, fame, and successful reign. He is remembered for his trust in God and his significant contributions to Jerusalem's infrastructure and worship.

Themes:

  • Faith and Trust in God: Hezekiah's unwavering faith in God, even when facing overwhelming odds, is central to the narrative. His reliance on prayer and prophetic guidance demonstrates the importance of seeking God in times of crisis.
  • God's Sovereignty and Power: The chapter emphasizes God's power to deliver His people. The miraculous defeat of the Assyrian army showcases God's ability to intervene in human affairs and protect those who trust in Him.
  • The Consequences of Pride: Hezekiah's temporary pride serves as a cautionary tale. While his repentance leads to forgiveness, it highlights the importance of humility and acknowledging God's role in our successes.

Overall, 2 Chronicles 32 is a powerful testament to God's faithfulness, demonstrating His willingness to defend and deliver those who place their trust in Him.

2 Chronicles 32 bible study ai commentary

The narrative of 2 Chronicles 32 demonstrates the core theological principle that trust and reliance on God, combined with responsible human action, are the keys to deliverance from insurmountable threats. The chapter contrasts the arrogant blasphemy of Assyria, which trusts in its own power ("arm of flesh"), with Hezekiah's faith-filled leadership that directs the people to trust in the Lord. It vividly portrays a test of faith, a miraculous deliverance by God's direct intervention, and a subsequent, humbling reminder that even the most righteous individuals are susceptible to pride, thus requiring continual dependence on God's grace.

2 Chronicles 32 context

This chapter recounts Sennacherib's invasion of Judah around 701 B.C., a well-documented event in both the Bible and extra-biblical sources like the Taylor Prism. The Chronicler, writing to the post-exilic Jewish community, selectively retells this history. Unlike the parallel accounts in 2 Kings 18-19 and Isaiah 36-37 which highlight the prophet Isaiah's role, the Chronicler centralizes King Hezekiah's spiritual leadership and the efficacy of prayer. The intended audience, a vulnerable remnant community, needed this reminder that their security lay not in political alliances or military strength, but in unwavering faithfulness to Yahweh, who had proven His power over the greatest empires.


2 Chronicles 32:1

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.

In-depth-analysis

  • Theological Test: The phrase "After these things and these acts of faithfulness" is a deliberate narrative device. It sets up the invasion not as a punishment for sin (as is common in Chronicles), but as a test of the very faithfulness just described.
  • Juxtaposition: Righteousness and reform (Chapters 29-31) are immediately followed by a severe trial. This teaches that faithfulness to God does not guarantee a life free from conflict.
  • Sennacherib's Motive: The text states his intent was simply conquest ("thinking to win them for himself"). This is a purely human, political motivation, setting up a conflict between earthly ambition and divine sovereignty.

Bible references

  • Job 1:8-12: And the LORD said to Satan, "Have you considered my servant Job, that there is none like him...?" Then Satan answered... "Stretch out your hand and touch all that he has, and he will curse you to your face." (Shows that righteousness can invite testing).
  • 1 Pet 4:12: Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you... (NT parallel for faith being proven through trials).
  • Jn 16:33: I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation... (Jesus preparing his disciples for worldly opposition).

Cross references

2 Kgs 18:13 (parallel account); Isa 36:1 (parallel account); Gen 22:1 (Abraham's testing); Dan 3:13-18 (Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego's trial).


2 Chronicles 32:2-5

And when Hezekiah saw that Sennacherib had come and that he intended to fight against Jerusalem, he planned with his officers and his mighty men to stop the water of the springs that were outside the city... He took courage and rebuilt 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.

In-depth-analysis

  • Faith in Action: Hezekiah's first response is practical and strategic. Faith in God is not passive; it involves diligent human effort and wisdom.
  • Water Strategy: Stopping the springs was a key siege tactic. It denied a vital resource to the invading army while preserving it for the city through internal tunnels (Hezekiah's Tunnel).
  • Courage & Preparation: "He took courage" (yithchazaq) signifies strengthening oneself for a task. He systematically prepares: repairing walls, adding a new outer wall, reinforcing the Millo (a key structural fortification), and stockpiling arms. This is leadership by example.

Bible references

  • Neh 4:9: And we prayed to our God and set a guard as a protection against them day and night. (Perfect example of combining prayer with practical defense).
  • Jas 2:17: So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. (Demonstrates the principle of active faith).
  • Prov 21:31: The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the LORD. (Captures the balance between human preparation and divine sovereignty).

Cross references

2 Chr 25:8 (strength for battle); Neh 2:18 (strengthening hands for work); 1 Sam 17:45-47 (David's faith coupled with action).


2 Chronicles 32:6-8

And he set combat commanders over the people and gathered them together to him in the square at the gate of the city and spoke encouragingly to them, saying, “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 is a greater one with us than with him. 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 were strengthened by the words of Hezekiah king of Judah.

In-depth-analysis

  • Spiritual Leadership: After practical preparations, Hezekiah shifts to spiritual fortification. He addresses the people's fear directly.
  • Arm of Flesh: This phrase starkly contrasts human/military power with divine power. It becomes a central theme of the conflict. This is a direct challenge to the Assyrian worldview, which deified their military might.
  • Divine Warrior: The core of the encouragement is the promise: "with us is the LORD our God, to help us and to fight our battles." This invokes the "Divine Warrior" motif, where God himself fights on behalf of His people.
  • Strengthened by Words: The Hebrew for "were strengthened" (samak) means to lean on or rely upon. The people leaned on their king's faith-filled words as a source of stability.

Bible references

  • Jer 17:5: Thus says the LORD: "Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength..." (Directly states the folly of trusting the "arm of flesh").
  • Psa 20:7: Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God. (Articulates the same core confession of faith).
  • Deut 20:3-4: 'Hear, O Israel, today you are drawing near for battle... let not your heart faint... for the LORD your God is he who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory.' (The foundational promise Hezekiah is echoing).

Cross references

Rom 8:31 (If God is for us); 1 Jn 4:4 (greater is He that is in you); Psa 46:1 (God is our refuge); Isa 41:10 (fear not, for I am with you).


2 Chronicles 32:9-19

After this, Sennacherib king of Assyria... sent his servants to Jerusalem... to Hezekiah... and to all the people of Judah... saying, "Thus says Sennacherib... On what are you trusting... Has any of the gods of the nations ever delivered his land out of the hand of the king of Assyria?... Who among all the gods of these lands... has delivered his people from my hand, that your God should be able to deliver you from my hand?"... 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 human hands.

In-depth-analysis

  • Psychological Warfare: Sennacherib (through his official, the Rabshakeh in parallel accounts) moves from physical siege to a siege of the mind and spirit. His strategy is to isolate and demoralize.
  • Blasphemous Logic: The argument is based on empirical evidence: "No god has ever stopped us." The fatal flaw is categorizing Yahweh, the transcendent Creator, with the local, man-made deities of other nations.
  • Targeting Trust: The attack is aimed directly at the foundation of Judah's hope: "On what are you trusting?" It seeks to dismantle the very trust Hezekiah just built.
  • The Ultimate Insult: The line "spoke of the God of Jerusalem as they spoke of the gods of the peoples... which are the work of human hands" is the climax of the blasphemy. It denies God's uniqueness and creative power, which, in the biblical worldview, is a capital offense inviting divine judgment.

Bible references

  • Isa 36:18-20: 'Beware lest Hezekiah mislead you... Has any of the gods of the nations delivered his land... Who among all these gods... has delivered their land... that the LORD should deliver Jerusalem...?' (The parallel account's very direct taunt).
  • Psa 115:4-8: Their idols are silver and gold, the work of human hands. They have mouths, but do not speak... Those who make them become like them... (The prophetic critique of what Sennacherib ignorantly lumps Yahweh in with).
  • Exod 20:3: "You shall have no other gods before me." (Sennacherib's speech is a fundamental violation of the first commandment, claiming superiority over Yahweh).

Cross references

2 Kgs 18:28-35 (Rabshakeh's full speech); Dan 3:15 (Nebuchadnezzar's similar taunt); Psa 74:10,18 (questioning how long the enemy will revile God's name).

Polemics

This section is a direct polemic against the imperial theology of Assyria, where the Assyrian king was seen as the agent of their chief god, Ashur. Victory in battle was seen as the triumph of their god. By presenting Yahweh as just another local deity on a list of defeated gods, Sennacherib is asserting the universal supremacy of Ashur and himself. The biblical narrative sets the stage for Yahweh to answer this cosmic challenge directly.


2 Chronicles 32:20-21

Then Hezekiah the king and Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, prayed because of this and cried to heaven. 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 of face 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.

In-depth-analysis

  • The Turning Point: Prayer: In response to blasphemy, the leaders turn to God. Prayer is the decisive weapon. The Chronicler includes Isaiah here, acknowledging the prophetic role, but keeping Hezekiah as the primary agent.
  • The Angel of the Lord: God's response is not a battle, but a summary execution. An angel performs the act, highlighting that this victory is entirely supernatural. No "arm of flesh" from Judah was involved.
  • Poetic Justice: Sennacherib, who boasted in his military might, sees his army's leadership annihilated overnight. He returns "with shame of face," a direct reversal of his arrogant pride.
  • Final Irony: He who blasphemed the living God is murdered in the temple of his own lifeless god, at the hands of his own sons. The impotence of his god and his "arm of flesh" is brutally demonstrated.

Bible references

  • Isa 37:21, 36: Then Isaiah the son of Amoz sent to Hezekiah, saying... the angel of the LORD went out and struck down 185,000 in the camp of the Assyrians. (Provides the number of casualties and the fuller prophetic message).
  • Exod 12:29: At midnight the LORD struck down all the firstborn in the land of Egypt... (Another instance of the angel of the LORD as an agent of decisive judgment).
  • Acts 12:21-23: Herod... began to make an address to them. And the people were shouting, "The voice of a god, and not of a man!" Immediately an angel of the Lord struck him down... (NT example of divine judgment against a ruler who accepted worship).

Cross references

2 Kgs 19:35-37 (parallel account of the angel and Sennacherib's death); Psa 76:5-6 (a Psalm possibly celebrating this victory); Zech 4:6 ('Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit').


2 Chronicles 32:22-23

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 them with security on every side. 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.

In-depth-analysis

  • Explicit Credit: The summary is clear: "the LORD saved Hezekiah." All glory for the victory is ascribed to God.
  • Security: The Hebrew word often translated as "guided them" or "provided security" implies a shepherd-like care, leading them to a place of rest and peace.
  • Exaltation: God's deliverance results in His name being honored (gifts to the LORD) and His servant being honored (precious things to Hezekiah). Hezekiah's exaltation is a direct consequence of God's action.

Bible references

  • 1 Sam 2:30: "...those who honor me I will honor, and those who despise me shall be lightly esteemed." (The principle demonstrated in the fates of Hezekiah and Sennacherib).
  • Psa 48:1-3: Great is the LORD and greatly to be praised in the city of our God!... the joy of all the earth... in her citadels God has made himself known as a fortress. (A hymn reflecting the security found in God's presence in Jerusalem).

Cross references

2 Chr 17:10-11 (fear of the LORD falling on nations); 1 Chr 29:25 (Solomon's exaltation by God); Psa 68:29 (kings bringing gifts).


2 Chronicles 32:24-26

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. But Hezekiah did not make return according to the benefit done to him, for his heart was proud. Therefore wrath was upon him and Judah and Jerusalem. Then Hezekiah humbled himself for the pride of his heart, both he and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so that the wrath of the LORD did not come upon them in the days of Hezekiah.

In-depth-analysis

  • The Second Test: After the great external test of invasion, an internal test of pride arises from God's blessings (healing and extended life).
  • Pride's Ingratitude: The essence of his sin was pride (gabhah leb - "highness of heart"). It manifested as a failure to respond with appropriate gratitude for a miraculous healing.
  • Communal Consequence: "Wrath was upon him and Judah." In the covenant community, the leader's sin has corporate ramifications.
  • Repentance Averts Judgment: Hezekiah's genuine humility and repentance successfully avert the impending wrath for the duration of his lifetime. This demonstrates God's mercy and the power of repentance.

Bible references

  • Prov 16:18: Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. (The universal principle Hezekiah dangerously experienced).
  • Dan 4:30-34: ...the king answered and said, "Is not this great Babylon, which I have built...?" While the word was in the king's mouth... he was driven from among men... (The ultimate biblical example of pride and humbling).
  • Luke 17:15-18: Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice... He was a Samaritan. Then Jesus answered, "Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine?" (NT example of the failure to give thanks after healing).

Cross references

2 Kgs 20:1-11 (fuller account of the sickness and sign); Isa 38 (Hezekiah's prayer and song of thanksgiving); Hos 13:6 (pride after being filled).


2 Chronicles 32:27-31

And Hezekiah had very great riches and honor... and the LORD had given him very great possessions. This same Hezekiah stopped 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. 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 test him, that he might know all that was in his heart.

In-depth-analysis

  • Blessing Detailed: The Chronicler lists Hezekiah's wealth and engineering feats as evidence of God's blessing, confirming his prosperity.
  • The Babylonian Test: The visit of the Babylonian envoys is presented here primarily as a test of Hezekiah's heart. 2 Kings focuses on the political folly; Chronicles focuses on the spiritual diagnosis.
  • "God left him": This is a profound theological statement. It doesn't mean God abandoned him, but that God withdrew His restraining grace in this specific instance to reveal the pride that was latent in Hezekiah's own heart.
  • The Purpose of the Test: "...that he might know all that was in his heart." The test was revelatory, for Hezekiah himself and for the record. It serves as a warning that even a blessed and righteous king has a heart prone to pride that only God truly knows.

Bible references

  • Deut 8:2: And you shall remember the whole way that the LORD your God has led you... to humble you, testing you to know what was in your heart... (Provides the direct theological framework for God testing His people to reveal their inner state).
  • 2 Kgs 20:12-19: ...Hezekiah welcomed them, and he showed them all his treasure house... Isaiah said to him... 'all that is in your house... shall be carried to Babylon.' (The parallel account which details the disastrous political consequences of this prideful display).
  • Psa 139:23-24: Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me... (The psalmist's prayer for the very kind of divine testing described here).

Cross references

Isa 39 (parallel account of Babylonian visit); Jas 1:13-14 (distinction between testing and temptation); 1 Chr 29:12 (riches and honor from God).


2 Chronicles 32:32-33

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. 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.

In-depth-analysis

  • Good Deeds: His acts are summarized as "good deeds" or "pious acts" (Hebrew chesed), emphasizing his covenant loyalty despite his noted failure.
  • Historical Sources: The Chronicler, like a good historian, cites his sources, giving primacy to the prophetic record of Isaiah.
  • Honorable Burial: His burial "in the upper part" of the royal tombs was a mark of supreme honor, reflecting the people's esteem for the king who, through faith, saved them.
  • Final Summary: Despite the episode of pride, Hezekiah's legacy is overwhelmingly positive, cementing him as one of Judah's greatest kings. The final mention of Manasseh, however, serves as an ominous foreshadowing, as he would be Judah's worst king.

Bible references

  • Acts 9:36: Now there was in Joppa a disciple named Tabitha... she was full of good works and acts of charity. (chesed parallel in NT Greek describing a righteous life).
  • 1 Kgs 2:10: Then David slept with his fathers and was buried in the city of David. (Standard formula for the death of a king).

Cross references

2 Chr 33:1 (Manasseh's reign begins); 2 Kgs 20:20-21 (summary of Hezekiah's reign and death); Neh 13:14 ("Remember me, O my God, for this, and do not wipe out my good deeds...")


2 Chronicles 32 analysis

  • Chiastic Structure of the Tests: The chapter presents two great tests. The first is an external, public threat (Sennacherib) which Hezekiah passes through faith. The second is an internal, private temptation (pride with the Babylonians) which he initially fails. This highlights that the battle against pride can be more difficult than the battle against foreign armies.
  • Chronicler's Theology in Microcosm: This single chapter encapsulates the Chronicler's core message: national security is found in trusting God, prayer is the primary means of activating God's power, kings are judged by their faithfulness to the covenant, and repentance can avert judgment.
  • Prophetic Fulfillment & Foreshadowing: The deliverance from Assyria fulfills prophecies of God protecting His city. However, Hezekiah's folly with the Babylonian envoys tragically foreshadows the very nation that will eventually succeed where Assyria failed, carrying Judah into exile. God tests Hezekiah with the agent of future judgment.
  • Faith and Works: The narrative masterfully weaves together faith and works. Hezekiah trusts God completely (v. 8) after he has exhausted all human and practical means of preparation (vv. 2-5). It presents a model of responsible faith, where one works as if it all depends on them, and prays as if it all depends on God.

2 Chronicles 32 summary

King Hezekiah responds to the overwhelming invasion of Assyria by combining practical military preparations with bold spiritual leadership, urging the people to trust in God's power over man's "arm of flesh." When confronted with Sennacherib's blasphemous propaganda, Hezekiah and Isaiah cry out to God, who sends an angel to annihilate the Assyrian army, resulting in God's and Hezekiah's exaltation. However, the chapter ends with a sober warning, as Hezekiah's heart becomes proud after a miraculous healing, showing that even the godliest leaders must constantly humble themselves before God to avoid His wrath.

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2 Chronicles chapter 32 kjv

  1. 1 After these things, and the establishment thereof, Sennacherib king of Assyria came, and entered into Judah, and encamped against the fenced cities, and thought to win them for himself.
  2. 2 And when Hezekiah saw that Sennacherib was come, and that he was purposed to fight against Jerusalem,
  3. 3 He took counsel with his princes and his mighty men to stop the waters of the fountains which were without the city: and they did help him.
  4. 4 So there was gathered much people together, who stopped all the fountains, and the brook that ran through the midst of the land, saying, Why should the kings of Assyria come, and find much water?
  5. 5 Also he strengthened himself, and built up all the wall that was broken, and raised it up to the towers, and another wall without, and repaired Millo in the city of David, and made darts and shields in abundance.
  6. 6 And he set captains of war over the people, and gathered them together to him in the street of the gate of the city, and spake comfortably to them, saying,
  7. 7 Be strong and courageous, be not afraid nor dismayed for the king of Assyria, nor for all the multitude that is with him: for there be more with us than with him:
  8. 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 rested themselves upon the words of Hezekiah king of Judah.
  9. 9 After this did Sennacherib king of Assyria send his servants to Jerusalem, (but he himself laid siege against Lachish, and all his power with him,) unto Hezekiah king of Judah, and unto all Judah that were at Jerusalem, saying,
  10. 10 Thus saith Sennacherib king of Assyria, Whereon do ye trust, that ye abide in the siege in Jerusalem?
  11. 11 Doth not Hezekiah persuade you to give over yourselves to die by famine and by thirst, saying, The LORD our God shall deliver us out of the hand of the king of Assyria?
  12. 12 Hath not the same Hezekiah taken away his high places and his altars, and commanded Judah and Jerusalem, saying, Ye shall worship before one altar, and burn incense upon it?
  13. 13 Know ye not what I and my fathers have done unto all the people of other lands? were the gods of the nations of those lands any ways able to deliver their lands out of mine hand?
  14. 14 Who was there among all the gods of those nations that my fathers utterly destroyed, that could deliver his people out of mine hand, that your God should be able to deliver you out of mine hand?
  15. 15 Now therefore let not Hezekiah deceive you, nor persuade you on this manner, neither yet believe him: for no god of any nation or kingdom was able to deliver his people out of mine hand, and out of the hand of my fathers: how much less shall your God deliver you out of mine hand?
  16. 16 And his servants spake yet more against the LORD God, and against his servant Hezekiah.
  17. 17 He wrote also letters to rail on the LORD God of Israel, and to speak against him, saying, As the gods of the nations of other lands have not delivered their people out of mine hand, so shall not the God of Hezekiah deliver his people out of mine hand.
  18. 18 Then they cried with a loud voice in the Jews' speech unto the people of Jerusalem that were on the wall, to affright them, and to trouble them; that they might take the city.
  19. 19 And they spake against the God of Jerusalem, as against the gods of the people of the earth, which were the work of the hands of man.
  20. 20 And for this cause Hezekiah the king, and the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz, prayed and cried to heaven.
  21. 21 And the LORD sent an angel, which cut off all the mighty men of valor, and the leaders and captains in the camp of the king of Assyria. So he returned with shame of face to his own land. And when he was come into the house of his god, they that came forth of his own bowels slew him there with the sword.
  22. 22 Thus the LORD saved Hezekiah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem from the hand of Sennacherib the king of Assyria, and from the hand of all other, and guided them on every side.
  23. 23 And many brought gifts unto the LORD to Jerusalem, and presents to Hezekiah king of Judah: so that he was magnified in the sight of all nations from thenceforth.
  24. 24 In those days Hezekiah was sick to the death, and prayed unto the LORD: and he spake unto him, and he gave him a sign.
  25. 25 But Hezekiah rendered not again according to the benefit done unto him; for his heart was lifted up: therefore there was wrath upon him, and upon Judah and Jerusalem.
  26. 26 Notwithstanding Hezekiah humbled himself for the pride of his heart, both he and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so that the wrath of the LORD came not upon them in the days of Hezekiah.
  27. 27 And Hezekiah had exceeding much riches and honor: and he made himself treasuries for silver, and for gold, and for precious stones, and for spices, and for shields, and for all manner of pleasant jewels;
  28. 28 Storehouses also for the increase of corn, and wine, and oil; and stalls for all manner of beasts, and cotes for flocks.
  29. 29 Moreover he provided him cities, and possessions of flocks and herds in abundance: for God had given him substance very much.
  30. 30 This same Hezekiah also stopped the upper watercourse of Gihon, and brought it straight down to the west side of the city of David. And Hezekiah prospered in all his works.
  31. 31 Howbeit in the business of the ambassadors of the princes of Babylon, who sent unto him to enquire of the wonder that was done in the land, God left him, to try him, that he might know all that was in his heart.
  32. 32 Now the rest of the acts of Hezekiah, and his goodness, behold, they are written in the vision of Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, and in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel.
  33. 33 And Hezekiah slept with his fathers, and they buried him in the chiefest of the sepulchres 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 stead.

2 Chronicles chapter 32 nkjv

  1. 1 After these deeds of faithfulness, Sennacherib king of Assyria came and entered Judah; he encamped against the fortified cities, thinking to win them over to himself.
  2. 2 And when Hezekiah saw that Sennacherib had come, and that his purpose was to make war against Jerusalem,
  3. 3 he consulted with his leaders and commanders to stop the water from the springs which were outside the city; and they helped him.
  4. 4 Thus many people gathered together who stopped all the springs and the brook that ran through the land, saying, "Why should the kings of Assyria come and find much water?"
  5. 5 And he strengthened himself, built up all the wall that was broken, raised it up to the towers, and built another wall outside; also he repaired the Millo in the City of David, and made weapons and shields in abundance.
  6. 6 Then he set military captains over the people, gathered them together to him in the open square of the city gate, and gave them encouragement, saying,
  7. 7 "Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid nor dismayed before the king of Assyria, nor before all the multitude that is with him; for there are more with us than with him.
  8. 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 were strengthened by the words of Hezekiah king of Judah.
  9. 9 After this Sennacherib king of Assyria sent his servants to Jerusalem (but he and all the forces with him laid siege against Lachish), to Hezekiah king of Judah, and to all Judah who were in Jerusalem, saying,
  10. 10 "Thus says Sennacherib king of Assyria: 'In what do you trust, that you remain under siege in Jerusalem?
  11. 11 Does not Hezekiah persuade you to give yourselves over to die by famine and by thirst, saying, "The LORD our God will deliver us from the hand of the king of Assyria"?
  12. 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. 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 in any way able to deliver their lands out of my hand?
  14. 14 Who was there among all the gods of those nations that my fathers utterly destroyed that could deliver his people from my hand, that your God should be able to deliver you from my hand?
  15. 15 Now therefore, do not let Hezekiah deceive you or persuade you like this, and do not believe him; for no god of any nation or kingdom was able to deliver his people from my hand or the hand of my fathers. How much less will your God deliver you from my hand?' "
  16. 16 Furthermore, his servants spoke against the LORD God and against His servant Hezekiah.
  17. 17 He also wrote letters to revile the LORD God of Israel, and to speak against Him, saying, "As the gods of the nations of other lands have not delivered their people from my hand, so the God of Hezekiah will not deliver His people from my hand."
  18. 18 Then they called out with a loud voice in Hebrew to the people of Jerusalem who were on the wall, to frighten them and trouble them, that they might take the city.
  19. 19 And they spoke against the God of Jerusalem, as against the gods of the people of the earth? the work of men's hands.
  20. 20 Now because of this King Hezekiah and the prophet Isaiah, the son of Amoz, prayed and cried out to heaven.
  21. 21 Then the LORD sent an angel who cut down every mighty man of valor, leader, and captain in the camp of the king of Assyria. So he returned shamefaced to his own land. And when he had gone into the temple of his god, some of his own offspring struck him down with the sword there.
  22. 22 Thus the LORD saved Hezekiah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem from the hand of Sennacherib the king of Assyria, and from the hand of all others, and guided them on every side.
  23. 23 And many brought gifts to the LORD at Jerusalem, and presents to Hezekiah king of Judah, so that he was exalted in the sight of all nations thereafter.
  24. 24 In those days Hezekiah was sick and near death, and he prayed to the LORD; and He spoke to him and gave him a sign.
  25. 25 But Hezekiah did not repay according to the favor shown him, for his heart was lifted up; therefore wrath was looming over him and over Judah and Jerusalem.
  26. 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. 27 Hezekiah had very great riches and honor. And he made himself treasuries for silver, for gold, for precious stones, for spices, for shields, and for all kinds of desirable items;
  28. 28 storehouses for the harvest of grain, wine, and oil; and stalls for all kinds of livestock, and folds for flocks.
  29. 29 Moreover he provided cities for himself, and possessions of flocks and herds in abundance; for God had given him very much property.
  30. 30 This same Hezekiah also stopped the water outlet of Upper Gihon, and brought the water by tunnel to the west side of the City of David. Hezekiah prospered in all his works.
  31. 31 However, regarding the ambassadors of the princes of Babylon, whom they sent to him to inquire about the wonder that was done in the land, God withdrew from him, in order to test him, that He might know all that was in his heart.
  32. 32 Now the rest of the acts of Hezekiah, and his goodness, indeed they are written in the vision of Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, and in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel.
  33. 33 So Hezekiah rested with his fathers, and they buried him in the upper tombs of the sons of David; and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem honored him at his death. Then Manasseh his son reigned in his place.

2 Chronicles chapter 32 niv

  1. 1 After all that Hezekiah had so faithfully done, Sennacherib king of Assyria came and invaded Judah. He laid siege to the fortified cities, thinking to conquer them for himself.
  2. 2 When Hezekiah saw that Sennacherib had come and that he intended to wage war against Jerusalem,
  3. 3 he consulted with his officials and military staff about blocking off the water from the springs outside the city, and they helped him.
  4. 4 They gathered a large group of people who blocked all the springs and the stream that flowed through the land. "Why should the kings of Assyria come and find plenty of water?" they said.
  5. 5 Then he worked hard repairing all the broken sections of the wall and building towers on it. He built another wall outside that one and reinforced the terraces of the City of David. He also made large numbers of weapons and shields.
  6. 6 He appointed military officers over the people and assembled them before him in the square at the city gate and encouraged them with these words:
  7. 7 "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater power with us than with him.
  8. 8 With him is only the arm of flesh, but with us is the LORD our God to help us and to fight our battles." And the people gained confidence from what Hezekiah the king of Judah said.
  9. 9 Later, when Sennacherib king of Assyria and all his forces were laying siege to Lachish, he sent his officers to Jerusalem with this message for Hezekiah king of Judah and for all the people of Judah who were there:
  10. 10 "This is what Sennacherib king of Assyria says: On what are you basing your confidence, that you remain in Jerusalem under siege?
  11. 11 When Hezekiah says, 'The LORD our God will save us from the hand of the king of Assyria,' he is misleading you, to let you die of hunger and thirst.
  12. 12 Did not Hezekiah himself remove this god's high places and altars, saying to Judah and Jerusalem, 'You must worship before one altar and burn sacrifices on it'?
  13. 13 "Do you not know what I and my predecessors have done to all the peoples of the other lands? Were the gods of those nations ever able to deliver their land from my hand?
  14. 14 Who of all the gods of these nations that my predecessors destroyed has been able to save his people from me? How then can your god deliver you from my hand?
  15. 15 Now do not let Hezekiah deceive you and mislead you like this. Do not believe him, for no god of any nation or kingdom has been able to deliver his people from my hand or the hand of my predecessors. How much less will your god deliver you from my hand!"
  16. 16 Sennacherib's officers spoke further against the LORD God and against his servant Hezekiah.
  17. 17 The king also wrote letters ridiculing the LORD, the God of Israel, and saying this against him: "Just as the gods of the peoples of the other lands did not rescue their people from my hand, so the god of Hezekiah will not rescue his people from my hand."
  18. 18 Then they called out in Hebrew to the people of Jerusalem who were on the wall, to terrify them and make them afraid in order to capture the city.
  19. 19 They spoke about the God of Jerusalem as they did about the gods of the other peoples of the world?the work of human hands.
  20. 20 King Hezekiah and the prophet Isaiah son of Amoz cried out in prayer to heaven about this.
  21. 21 And the LORD sent an angel, who annihilated all the fighting men and the commanders and officers in the camp of the Assyrian king. So he withdrew to his own land in disgrace. And when he went into the temple of his god, some of his sons, his own flesh and blood, cut him down with the sword.
  22. 22 So the LORD saved Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem from the hand of Sennacherib king of Assyria and from the hand of all others. He took care of them on every side.
  23. 23 Many brought offerings to Jerusalem for the LORD and valuable gifts for Hezekiah king of Judah. From then on he was highly regarded by all the nations.
  24. 24 In those days Hezekiah became ill and was at the point of death. He prayed to the LORD, who answered him and gave him a miraculous sign.
  25. 25 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.
  26. 26 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.
  27. 27 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.
  28. 28 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.
  29. 29 He built villages and acquired great numbers of flocks and herds, for God had given him very great riches.
  30. 30 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.
  31. 31 But when envoys were sent by the rulers of Babylon to ask him about the miraculous sign that had occurred in the land, God left him to test him and to know everything that was in his heart.
  32. 32 The other events of Hezekiah's reign and his acts of devotion are written in the vision of the prophet Isaiah son of Amoz in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel.
  33. 33 Hezekiah rested with his ancestors and was buried on the hill where the tombs of David's descendants are. All Judah and the people of Jerusalem honored him when he died. And Manasseh his son succeeded him as king.

2 Chronicles chapter 32 esv

  1. 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. 2 And when Hezekiah saw that Sennacherib had come and intended to fight against Jerusalem,
  3. 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. 4 A great many people were gathered, and they stopped all the springs and the brook that flowed through the land, saying, "Why should the kings of Assyria come and find much water?"
  5. 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. 6 And he set combat commanders over the people and gathered them together to him in the square at the gate of the city and spoke encouragingly to them, saying,
  7. 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. 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. 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. 10 "Thus says Sennacherib king of Assyria, 'On what are you trusting, that you endure the siege in Jerusalem?
  11. 11 Is not Hezekiah misleading 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. 12 Has not this same Hezekiah taken away his high places and his altars and commanded Judah and Jerusalem, "Before one altar you shall worship, and on it you shall burn your sacrifices"?
  13. 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. 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. 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. 16 And his servants said still more against the LORD God and against his servant Hezekiah.
  17. 17 And he wrote letters to cast contempt on the LORD, the God of Israel, and to speak against him, saying, "Like the gods of the nations of the lands who have not delivered their people from my hands, so the God of Hezekiah will not deliver his people from my hand."
  18. 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. 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. 20 Then Hezekiah the king and Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, prayed because of this and cried to heaven.
  21. 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 of face 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 26 But Hezekiah humbled himself for the pride of his heart, both he and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so that the wrath of the LORD did not come upon them in the days of Hezekiah.
  27. 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. 28 storehouses also for the yield of grain, wine, and oil; and stalls for all kinds of cattle, and sheepfolds.
  29. 29 He likewise provided cities for himself, and flocks and herds in abundance, for God had given him very great possessions.
  30. 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. 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. 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. 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.

2 Chronicles chapter 32 nlt

  1. 1 After Hezekiah had faithfully carried out this work, King Sennacherib of Assyria invaded Judah. He laid siege to the fortified towns, giving orders for his army to break through their walls.
  2. 2 When Hezekiah realized that Sennacherib also intended to attack Jerusalem,
  3. 3 he consulted with his officials and military advisers, and they decided to stop the flow of the springs outside the city.
  4. 4 They organized a huge work crew to stop the flow of the springs, cutting off the brook that ran through the fields. For they said, "Why should the kings of Assyria come here and find plenty of water?"
  5. 5 Then Hezekiah worked hard at repairing all the broken sections of the wall, erecting towers, and constructing a second wall outside the first. He also reinforced the supporting terraces in the City of David and manufactured large numbers of weapons and shields.
  6. 6 He appointed military officers over the people and assembled them before him in the square at the city gate. Then Hezekiah encouraged them by saying:
  7. 7 "Be strong and courageous! Don't be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria or his mighty army, for there is a power far greater on our side!
  8. 8 He may have a great army, but they are merely men. We have the LORD our God to help us and to fight our battles for us!" Hezekiah's words greatly encouraged the people.
  9. 9 While King Sennacherib of Assyria was still besieging the town of Lachish, he sent his officers to Jerusalem with this message for Hezekiah and all the people in the city:
  10. 10 "This is what King Sennacherib of Assyria says: What are you trusting in that makes you think you can survive my siege of Jerusalem?
  11. 11 Hezekiah has said, 'The LORD our God will rescue us from the king of Assyria.' Surely Hezekiah is misleading you, sentencing you to death by famine and thirst!
  12. 12 Don't you realize that Hezekiah is the very person who destroyed all the LORD's shrines and altars? He commanded Judah and Jerusalem to worship only at the altar at the Temple and to offer sacrifices on it alone.
  13. 13 "Surely you must realize what I and the other kings of Assyria before me have done to all the people of the earth! Were any of the gods of those nations able to rescue their people from my power?
  14. 14 Which of their gods was able to rescue its people from the destructive power of my predecessors? What makes you think your God can rescue you from me?
  15. 15 Don't let Hezekiah deceive you! Don't let him fool you like this! I say it again ? no god of any nation or kingdom has ever yet been able to rescue his people from me or my ancestors. How much less will your God rescue you from my power!"
  16. 16 And Sennacherib's officers further mocked the LORD God and his servant Hezekiah, heaping insult upon insult.
  17. 17 The king also sent letters scorning the LORD, the God of Israel. He wrote, "Just as the gods of all the other nations failed to rescue their people from my power, so the God of Hezekiah will also fail."
  18. 18 The Assyrian officials who brought the letters shouted this in Hebrew to the people gathered on the walls of the city, trying to terrify them so it would be easier to capture the city.
  19. 19 These officers talked about the God of Jerusalem as though he were one of the pagan gods, made by human hands.
  20. 20 Then King Hezekiah and the prophet Isaiah son of Amoz cried out in prayer to God in heaven.
  21. 21 And the LORD sent an angel who destroyed the Assyrian army with all its commanders and officers. So Sennacherib was forced to return home in disgrace to his own land. And when he entered the temple of his god, some of his own sons killed him there with a sword.
  22. 22 That is how the LORD rescued Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem from King Sennacherib of Assyria and from all the others who threatened them. So there was peace throughout the land.
  23. 23 From then on King Hezekiah became highly respected among all the surrounding nations, and many gifts for the LORD arrived at Jerusalem, with valuable presents for King Hezekiah, too.
  24. 24 About that time Hezekiah became deathly ill. He prayed to the LORD, who healed him and gave him a miraculous sign.
  25. 25 But Hezekiah did not respond appropriately to the kindness shown him, and he became proud. So the LORD's anger came against him and against Judah and Jerusalem.
  26. 26 Then Hezekiah humbled himself and repented of his pride, as did the people of Jerusalem. So the LORD's anger did not fall on them during Hezekiah's lifetime.
  27. 27 Hezekiah was very wealthy and highly honored. He built special treasury buildings for his silver, gold, precious stones, and spices, and for his shields and other valuable items.
  28. 28 He also constructed many storehouses for his grain, new wine, and olive oil; and he made many stalls for his cattle and pens for his flocks of sheep and goats.
  29. 29 He built many towns and acquired vast flocks and herds, for God had given him great wealth.
  30. 30 He blocked up the upper spring of Gihon and brought the water down through a tunnel to the west side of the City of David. And so he succeeded in everything he did.
  31. 31 However, when ambassadors arrived from Babylon to ask about the remarkable events that had taken place in the land, God withdrew from Hezekiah in order to test him and to see what was really in his heart.
  32. 32 The rest of the events in Hezekiah's reign and his acts of devotion are recorded in The Vision of the Prophet Isaiah Son of Amoz, which is included in The Book of the Kings of Judah and Israel.
  33. 33 When Hezekiah died, he was buried in the upper area of the royal cemetery, and all Judah and Jerusalem honored him at his death. And his son Manasseh became the next king.
  1. Bible Book of 2 Chronicles
  2. 1 Solomon Worships at Gibeon
  3. 2 Preparing to Build the Temple
  4. 3 Solomon Builds the Temple
  5. 4 The Temple's Furnishings
  6. 5 The Ark Brought to the Temple
  7. 6 Solomon Blesses the People
  8. 7 Shekinah glory of God
  9. 8 Solomon's Accomplishments
  10. 9 The Queen of Sheba
  11. 10 The Revolt Against Rehoboam
  12. 11 Rehoboam Secures His Kingdom
  13. 12 Egypt Plunders Jerusalem
  14. 13 Abijah Reigns in Judah
  15. 14 King Asa of Judah
  16. 15 Asa's Religious Reforms
  17. 16 Asa's Last Years
  18. 17 Jehoshaphat Reigns in Judah
  19. 18 Jehoshaphat Allies with Ahab
  20. 19 Jehoshaphat's Reforms
  21. 20 King Jehoshaphat's Prayer
  22. 21 Jehoram Reigns in Judah
  23. 22 Ahaziah Reigns in Judah
  24. 23 Joash Made King
  25. 24 King Joash Repairs the Temple
  26. 25 Amaziah Reigns in Judah
  27. 26 King Uzziah Reigns in Judah
  28. 27 Jotham Reigns in Judah
  29. 28 Ahaz Reigns in Judah
  30. 29 Hezekiah Reigns in Judah
  31. 30 Passover Celebrated
  32. 31 Hezekiah Organizes the Priests
  33. 32 Sennacherib Boasts Against the Lord
  34. 33 Manasseh Reigns in Judah
  35. 34 Josiah Reigns in Judah
  36. 35 Josiah Keeps the Passover
  37. 36 Judah's Decline