2 Chronicles 32:3

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

He took counsel {H3289} with his princes {H8269} and his mighty men {H1368} to stop {H5640} the waters {H4325} of the fountains {H5869} which were without {H2351} the city {H5892}: and they did help {H5826} him.

Complete Jewish Bible

he consulted his leading men and military advisers about sealing off the water in the springs outside the city. After gaining their support,

Berean Standard Bible

he consulted with his leaders and commanders about stopping up the waters of the springs outside the city, and they helped him carry it out.

American Standard Version

he took counsel with his princes and his mighty men to stop the waters of the fountains which were without the city; and they helped him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
King Hezekiah of Judah, facing the imminent invasion of the Assyrian army led by Sennacherib, demonstrated remarkable strategic foresight and collaborative leadership. This verse details his proactive measure of consulting with his officials and military commanders to block the natural water sources outside Jerusalem, thereby denying the invading forces a crucial supply while simultaneously securing the city's own access. This act of diligent preparation was a vital component of Judah's defense against a formidable enemy.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the grim declaration that Sennacherib, king of Assyria, had invaded Judah and was besieging its fortified cities (cf. [2 Chronicles 32:1](/2_chronicles/32-1 "2 Chronicles 32:1 - Sennacherib's Invasion of Judah")). Recognizing the direct threat to Jerusalem, Hezekiah's actions in verse 3 represent the initial, practical human response to this crisis. These preparations precede the detailed account of Jerusalem's fortification efforts (cf. [2 Chronicles 32:5](/2_chronicles/32-5 "2 Chronicles 32:5 - Hezekiah's Fortifications")) and, crucially, the king's profound spiritual encouragement to his people, urging them to trust in the Lord for deliverance (cf. [2 Chronicles 32:7-8](/2_chronicles/32-7 "2 Chronicles 32:7-8 - Hezekiah's Encouragement of Trust")). The narrative structure highlights a balance between human responsibility and divine sovereignty, showing that diligent human effort is often a prerequisite for, or a complement to, God's miraculous intervention.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The late 8th century BC was a period of significant Assyrian dominance in the Near East. Sennacherib's campaign against Judah (c. 701 BC) was part of a broader strategy to consolidate control over rebellious vassal states. Siege warfare was a common military tactic, and controlling water sources was paramount for both besiegers and besieged. Jerusalem, situated on a ridge, relied heavily on the Gihon Spring, which was located outside the city walls, making it vulnerable. Hezekiah's actions reflect an understanding of ancient military strategy, where denying vital resources to the enemy was as crucial as strengthening one's own defenses. This strategic move was not unique; similar tactics were employed in ancient warfare to weaken an enemy's resolve and capacity for prolonged engagement.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully illustrates several key themes within the broader narrative of [2 Chronicles 32](/2_chronicles/32 "2 Chronicles 32 - Hezekiah's Reign and Sennacherib's Invasion"). Firstly, **Strategic Preparedness** is evident in Hezekiah's proactive and intelligent planning. His decision to cut off external water sources while securing an internal supply for Jerusalem (a project culminating in the famous [Hezekiah's Tunnel](/2_chronicles/32-30 "2 Chronicles 32:30 - Hezekiah's Tunnel")) demonstrates remarkable foresight in anticipating the enemy's needs and vulnerabilities. Secondly, **Collaborative Leadership** is highlighted by the phrase "took counsel with his princes and his mighty men." Hezekiah did not act unilaterally but engaged his key advisors and military leaders, fostering unity and shared responsibility in the face of crisis. This collaborative approach was essential for the successful execution of such a large-scale and critical defensive project. Thirdly, the verse underscores the critical importance of **Resource Management in Crisis**, particularly water, as a strategic asset during ancient warfare. Protecting the city's water supply and denying it to the enemy was a matter of survival, showcasing the practical wisdom applied in a desperate situation.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Took counsel (Hebrew, _ya'ats'_):** This verb signifies a deliberate act of consultation, strategic planning, and seeking expert advice. It implies that Hezekiah's decision was not impulsive or arbitrary, but rather a well-considered and collaborative process involving his most trusted and capable advisors. The emphasis is on wisdom derived from collective deliberation, essential for effective leadership in a crisis.
* **Stop (Hebrew, _satham'_):** This word means to block, close up, or seal off. Its usage here indicates a thorough and effective sealing off of the water sources. It suggests a comprehensive and decisive action, not merely a partial obstruction, ensuring that the Assyrians would be completely deprived of these vital supplies.
* **Fountains (Hebrew, _ma'ayanot'_):** Referring to natural springs, these were critical and often irreplaceable water sources in ancient times, especially in arid regions. The specific mention of "fountains" highlights the strategic importance of these particular locations for sustaining life and military operations. Hezekiah's focus on these external sources demonstrates a precise understanding of the enemy's logistical needs.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He took counsel with his princes and his mighty men":** This clause reveals King Hezekiah's leadership style, emphasizing his wisdom in seeking advice from his most capable civil and military leaders. It portrays him as a collaborative ruler who understood the value of collective wisdom and shared responsibility, rather than an autocratic one. This consultation would have involved strategic discussions about the impending siege and the most effective defensive measures.
* **"to stop the waters of the fountains which [were] without the city":** This outlines the specific strategic objective of the consultation. The goal was to deny the invading Assyrian army access to the natural water sources located outside Jerusalem's walls. This action was crucial for weakening the enemy by depriving them of a sustainable water supply, thereby hindering their ability to conduct a prolonged siege. It also implies the simultaneous effort to secure water for the city's inhabitants.
* **"and they did help him":** This concluding phrase affirms the successful execution of the plan and the unity of purpose among Hezekiah and his advisors. It signifies that the counsel taken was effective and that the collaborative effort yielded tangible results, demonstrating the practical outcome of their wise planning and diligent work in preparing for the Assyrian assault.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its message. **Foresight** is evident in Hezekiah's proactive measures, taken before the full impact of the siege tightens around Jerusalem. This demonstrates a strategic mind that anticipates threats rather than merely reacting to them. The passage also utilizes **Strategic Imagery**, painting a vivid picture of military planning and resource control, highlighting the critical importance of water in ancient warfare. Furthermore, a **Collaborative Motif** is central, emphasizing the unity and shared responsibility between the king and his advisors. This collective action contrasts sharply with the impending external threat, underscoring the strength derived from internal cohesion.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hezekiah's actions in 2 Chronicles 32:3 illustrate a profound biblical principle: that human wisdom, diligent planning, and proactive effort are not antithetical to faith in God, but often serve as the means through which divine providence operates. Hezekiah did not passively await God's intervention; rather, he exercised the wisdom and resources God had given him to prepare for the impending crisis. This verse demonstrates a balanced theological perspective where human responsibility and divine sovereignty work in concert. God often blesses and uses human ingenuity and hard work, transforming practical preparations into instruments of His deliverance. This preparation, far from being a sign of doubt, was an act of responsible stewardship and a testament to a faith that understands God works through means.

* [Proverbs 15:22](/proverbs/15-22 "Proverbs 15:22 - Wisdom in Counsel")
* [Nehemiah 4:6](/nehemiah/4-6 "Nehemiah 4:6 - Building with Diligence")
* [Psalm 127:1](/psalms/127-1 "Psalm 127:1 - The Lord Builds the House")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hezekiah's strategic foresight and collaborative leadership in 2 Chronicles 32:3 offer enduring lessons for believers today. In a world fraught with challenges—whether personal, communal, or spiritual—this verse encourages us to embrace a posture of proactive wisdom and diligent preparation. It reminds us that while our ultimate trust rests in God's sovereign power and provision, this faith does not negate the need for practical action, thoughtful planning, and responsible stewardship of the resources and opportunities God has given us. We are called to seek wise counsel, to collaborate with others in our communities and churches, and to identify and protect what is vital for our spiritual and physical well-being. Hezekiah's example teaches us that true faith is not passive resignation but an active engagement with the realities of life, trusting that God will work through our efforts.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How do we balance proactive planning and diligent effort with complete reliance on God's sovereignty in our lives?**
* **In what areas of your personal or communal life could you benefit from seeking wise counsel and fostering collaborative efforts, similar to Hezekiah's approach?**
* **What "fountains" (resources, relationships, or vulnerabilities) in your life or community need strategic protection or management in anticipation of future challenges?**

### FAQ
**Was Hezekiah's action a sign of a lack of faith in God?**

Answer: No, Hezekiah's actions were not a sign of a lack of faith but rather an exercise of practical wisdom and responsible stewardship. The biblical narrative consistently portrays Hezekiah as a king who deeply trusted the Lord, as evidenced by his fervent prayer in [2 Kings 19:14-19](/2_kings/19-14 "2 Kings 19:14-19 - Hezekiah's Prayer") and his powerful encouragement to his people to rely on God (see [2 Chronicles 32:7-8](/2_chronicles/32-7 "2 Chronicles 32:7-8 - Hezekiah's Encouragement to Trust")). God often works through human means and preparation. Hezekiah's diligent efforts to secure Jerusalem's water supply and fortify its defenses complemented his spiritual reliance, demonstrating a holistic approach to leadership that integrates both faith and practical wisdom.

**How effective was this strategy of stopping the water sources?**

Answer: This strategy was highly effective and a crucial component of Jerusalem's defense. By denying the vast Assyrian army easy access to water, Hezekiah significantly hampered their ability to sustain a prolonged siege, especially in the arid climate of Judah. Simultaneously, Hezekiah ensured Jerusalem's internal water supply, most notably through the construction of the famous [Hezekiah's Tunnel](/2_chronicles/32-30 "2 Chronicles 32:30 - Hezekiah's Tunnel"), which diverted the Gihon Spring's water directly into the city. This strategic move, combined with the city's fortifications, contributed significantly to the eventual failure of Sennacherib's siege, culminating in God's miraculous intervention that decimated the Assyrian army (see [2 Kings 19:35-36](/2_kings/19-35 "2 Kings 19:35-36 - The Angel of the Lord Destroys the Assyrian Army")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hezekiah's strategic wisdom and diligent preparation in securing Jerusalem's water supply, while a remarkable act of human ingenuity and leadership, ultimately point to a far greater King and a more profound source of provision in Jesus Christ. Hezekiah sought to protect his people from a physical enemy by cutting off external water sources, but Christ is the true "fountain of living waters" ([Jeremiah 2:13](/jeremiah/2-13 "Jeremiah 2:13 - Broken Cisterns")) who offers eternal life to all who believe, a supply that never runs dry ([John 4:10-14](/john/4-10 "John 4:10-14 - Jesus, the Living Water")). While Hezekiah's counsel with his princes aimed at earthly survival, Christ's perfect wisdom and counsel lead to salvation and eternal security ([1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ Our Wisdom")). He is the ultimate protector, not merely against physical armies, but against the spiritual forces of darkness and the ultimate enemy, death. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Christ secured for His people an unassailable spiritual defense, providing a "wellspring of life" within them that flows to eternal life ([John 7:38](/john/7-38 "John 7:38 - Rivers of Living Water")). In Christ, we find not just temporary relief from a siege, but ultimate deliverance and an everlasting inheritance, secured by the perfect counsel and mighty work of the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 20:18

¶ [Every] purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war.

Proverbs 15:22

¶ Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.

Proverbs 24:6

For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war: and in multitude of counsellors [there is] safety.

Isaiah 22:8

¶ And he discovered the covering of Judah, and thou didst look in that day to the armour of the house of the forest.

Isaiah 22:11

Ye made also a ditch between the two walls for the water of the old pool: but ye have not looked unto the maker thereof, neither had respect unto him that fashioned it long ago.

2 Chronicles 30:2

For the king had taken counsel, and his princes, and all the congregation in Jerusalem, to keep the passover in the second month.

Isaiah 40:13

Who hath directed the Spirit of the LORD, or [being] his counsellor hath taught him?