2 Chronicles 32:6

KJV

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,

KJV (with Strong's)

And he set {H5414} captains {H8269} of war {H4421} over the people {H5971}, and gathered them together {H6908} to him in the street {H7339} of the gate {H8179} of the city {H5892}, and spake {H1696} comfortably {H3824} to them, saying {H559},

Complete Jewish Bible

He appointed military commanders over the people, then gathered them before him in the open space at the city gate and spoke these words of encouragement to them:

Berean Standard Bible

Hezekiah appointed military commanders over the people and gathered the people in the square of the city gate. Then he encouraged them, saying,

American Standard Version

And he set captains of war over the people, and gathered them together to him in the broad place at the gate of the city, and spake comfortably to them, saying,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
2 Chronicles 32:6 presents a pivotal moment in King Hezekiah's reign, illustrating his profound leadership during the Assyrian invasion. Following extensive physical preparations, Hezekiah shifts his focus to the morale and spiritual fortitude of his people. He strategically appoints military commanders and personally gathers the entire populace at the city gate, a central hub of community life, to deliver a deeply comforting and resolute address. This act underscores his understanding that true defense encompasses not only military readiness but also the psychological and spiritual resilience of his subjects, preparing them for the impending siege with words designed to instill courage and trust.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the Chronicler's detailed account of King Hezekiah's righteous reign and, specifically, his response to the formidable invasion by Sennacherib, King of Assyria, as elaborated in [2 Chronicles 32](/2_chronicles/32 "2 Chronicles 32 - Hezekiah's Response to Assyrian Invasion"). The preceding verses, [2 Chronicles 32:1-5](/2_chronicles/32-1-5 "2 Chronicles 32:1-5 - Hezekiah's Preparations for War"), meticulously describe Hezekiah's extensive physical and logistical preparations: stopping water sources, repairing walls, building towers, and manufacturing weaponry. Verse 6 marks a crucial transition from material readiness to the vital aspect of human and spiritual mobilization. It sets the immediate stage for Hezekiah's powerful and faith-filled speech of encouragement found in [2 Chronicles 32:7-8](/2_chronicles/32-7-8 "2 Chronicles 32:7-8 - Hezekiah's Encouraging Speech"), which explicitly grounds the people's hope and security in the Lord God. This Chronicler's account, while paralleling narratives in [2 Kings 18-19](/2_kings/18 "2 Kings 18-19 - Sennacherib's Invasion and God's Deliverance") and [Isaiah 36-37](/isaiah/36 "Isaiah 36-37 - Isaiah's Prophecy During the Siege"), uniquely emphasizes Hezekiah's piety and the divine hand in Judah's deliverance.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The late 8th century BC was characterized by the relentless and brutal expansion of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, a superpower known for its formidable military might, advanced siege warfare, and psychological tactics. By this time, King Sennacherib had already devastated numerous fortified cities throughout Judah, as recorded in [2 Kings 18:13](/2_kings/18-13 "2 Kings 18:13 - Sennacherib's Invasion of Judah"), and was now poised to lay siege to Jerusalem, the capital. The "street of the gate of the city" (`rechov sha'ar ha'ir`) was not merely a thoroughfare but the vital public square in ancient Near Eastern cities. It served as the primary venue for legal proceedings, commercial transactions, public announcements, and community gatherings. Gathering the people at this central and symbolically significant location underscored the extreme gravity of the situation, ensuring that Hezekiah's message reached the entire populace. This public assembly also served to counter the psychological warfare employed by the Assyrians, who often sought to demoralize their enemies through intimidation and propaganda, as vividly depicted in the Rabshakeh's speech in [2 Kings 18:28-35](/2_kings/18-28-35 "2 Kings 18:28-35 - The Rabshakeh's Taunts").

* **Key Themes:** This verse significantly contributes to several overarching themes within 2 Chronicles and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates **Godly Leadership in Crisis**. Hezekiah's actions—appointing "captains of war" and personally addressing the populace—demonstrate a proactive, responsible, and compassionate approach to leadership, balancing diligent human effort with a profound reliance on divine providence. This reflects a consistent theme throughout his reign, as seen in his dedication to restoring temple worship and moral order ([2 Chronicles 31:20-21](/2_chronicles/31-20-21 "2 Chronicles 31:20-21 - Hezekiah's Righteousness")). Secondly, the verse highlights the critical theme of **Preparation and Trust**. While Hezekiah undertakes extensive human preparations for war, his subsequent speech ([2 Chronicles 32:7-8](/2_chronicles/32-7-8 "2 Chronicles 32:7-8 - Hezekiah's Call to Trust God")) reveals that these efforts are ultimately rooted in and complemented by an unwavering trust in God's power and ability to deliver, a crucial tension between human responsibility and divine sovereignty present throughout the historical books. Lastly, the phrase "spake comfortably to them" introduces the vital theme of **Encouragement and Morale**. Hezekiah understood that the spiritual and emotional state of his people was as crucial as their physical defenses. This emphasis on inner fortitude and unity in the face of overwhelming odds is a recurring principle in biblical accounts of warfare and adversity, echoing the importance of courage and faith as seen in [Deuteronomy 20:1-4](/deuteronomy/20-1-4 "Deuteronomy 20:1-4 - Laws for Warfare").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **set (Hebrew, _nâthan'_):** (H5414) A primitive root meaning "to give," but used with the greatest latitude of application, including "to put," "to make," "to appoint," or "to ordain." In this context, Hezekiah "appointed" or "placed" military commanders over the people, signifying his deliberate and authoritative act of establishing an organized defense structure. This highlights his proactive and strategic leadership in preparing for the impending conflict.
* **captains (Hebrew, _sar'_):** (H8269) From `sârar`, meaning "to rule," this noun refers to a "head person (of any rank or class)," including a chief, general, governor, or ruler. Here, it specifically denotes military commanders or officers. Hezekiah's appointment of these "captains of war" (`sarei milchâmâh`) indicates the establishment of a clear chain of command and a structured mobilization of the populace, moving beyond general defense to organized military readiness.
* **comfortably (Hebrew, _lêbâb'_):** (H3824) From `lâbab`, meaning "to be enclosed" or "to be heart-shaped," this noun refers to "the heart (as the most interior organ)." When paired with `dâbar` (to speak), the phrase "spake comfortably" (`vaydabber al-libbam`) literally means "he spoke to their heart." This idiomatic expression signifies a deep, empathetic, and reassuring address designed to uplift, strengthen, and instill courage. It implies a pastoral tone, aiming to calm fears, build confidence, and foster unity by directly addressing the emotional and spiritual state of the people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he set captains of war over the people":** This initial clause reveals Hezekiah's administrative foresight and military acumen. Recognizing the immense threat posed by the Assyrian army, he did not merely rely on physical fortifications but actively organized his populace by delegating authority to competent military leaders. This act demonstrates a proactive and strategic approach to defense, ensuring that the people could be effectively marshaled, trained, and directed under a clear command structure during the crisis.
* **"and gathered them together to him in the street of the gate of the city":** This segment describes the physical assembly of the people and the strategic choice of location. The "street of the gate" was the most public, central, and symbolically significant area in an ancient city. By personally gathering the entire populace at this hub of community life, Hezekiah demonstrated his direct engagement and commitment. This public assembly fostered a powerful sense of solidarity, shared purpose, and collective responsibility among the citizens, preparing them for a unified and resolute response to the impending invasion.
* **"and spake comfortably to them, saying,":** This final clause highlights Hezekiah's profound pastoral and psychological leadership. The phrase "spake comfortably" (literally "spoke to their heart") signifies that his words were not merely instructions or commands but were intended to provide deep encouragement, reassurance, and moral support. In a moment of overwhelming fear and uncertainty, this act of speaking directly to their hearts was crucial for bolstering morale, instilling courage, and fostering trust, setting the stage for the powerful message of divine deliverance that follows.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several effective literary devices to convey Hezekiah's leadership and the gravity of the situation. **Leadership Archetype** is prominently displayed, portraying Hezekiah as a model of a wise, courageous, and compassionate king who skillfully balances practical preparation with spiritual and emotional encouragement. He embodies the ideal ruler who cares for the holistic well-being of his people. The **Symbolism** of the "street of the gate of the city" is potent; it represents not only a critical physical point of defense and entry but also the very heart and nerve center of the community, where public life, justice, and collective identity converge. Hezekiah's deliberate choice to address the people here signifies his commitment to the city's survival and his direct engagement with the collective spirit of his subjects. Furthermore, the narrative employs subtle **Foreshadowing**, as the phrase "spake comfortably" anticipates the profound and faith-filled content of Hezekiah's subsequent speech in [2 Chronicles 32:7-8](/2_chronicles/32-7-8 "2 Chronicles 32:7-8 - Hezekiah's Inspiring Speech"). This builds anticipation and underscores the transformative power of his words, emphasizing that his comfort is not merely human reassurance but a precursor to a divinely inspired message of hope.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Hezekiah's actions in 2 Chronicles 32:6 beautifully illustrate the profound biblical tension between human responsibility and divine sovereignty. While Hezekiah meticulously carries out all humanly possible preparations—fortifying the city, organizing the military, and personally addressing the people—he does so not in a spirit of self-reliance, but as an act of faithful stewardship, understanding that ultimate deliverance rests with God alone. His "speaking comfortably" to the people reflects a deep understanding of the human condition under duress, recognizing that fear and despair can be as destructive as any physical weapon. This act of pastoral care is a powerful testament to leadership that ministers to the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—and underscores the transformative power of encouraging words in times of great uncertainty, mirroring God's own comforting presence with His people throughout salvation history.

* [Nehemiah 4:14](/nehemiah/4-14 "Nehemiah 4:14 - Nehemiah's Encouragement to Fight for Family")
* [Joshua 1:9](/joshua/1-9 "Joshua 1:9 - God's Command to Be Strong and Courageous")
* [Proverbs 12:25](/proverbs/12-25 "Proverbs 12:25 - The Power of a Good Word")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Hezekiah's leadership in 2 Chronicles 32:6 offers timeless and profound lessons for navigating personal and collective crises in any age. It reminds us that true strength and resilience are not solely found in physical defenses or meticulously crafted strategic plans, but fundamentally in the spirit, morale, and unified resolve of the people. In our own lives, when confronted with overwhelming challenges, whether personal adversity, communal struggles, or global uncertainties, we are called to emulate Hezekiah's exemplary balance of diligent preparation and compassionate encouragement. Whether we find ourselves in positions of formal leadership within our homes, workplaces, or communities, or simply as individuals facing personal struggles, this verse challenges us to not only "do" what is practically necessary but also to intentionally "speak" words that build up, comfort, and instill hope. It underscores the profound and often underestimated impact of intentional, heart-to-heart communication in fostering resilience, unity, and courage. Even in the darkest valleys, words of faith, reassurance, and empathy can serve as a powerful balm, preparing hearts to trust in a greater power beyond mere human capability.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or community are you called to exercise Hezekiah-like leadership, balancing practical preparation with spiritual and emotional encouragement?**
* **How effectively do you "speak comfortably" (speak to the heart) to those around you who are facing fear, uncertainty, or despair?**
* **What specific fears or anxieties might God be calling you to address with words of faith and reassurance, both for yourself and for others, in your current circumstances?**
* **How does Hezekiah's example challenge your understanding of what it truly means to prepare for a significant challenge, considering both the physical and the emotional/spiritual dimensions?**

### FAQ
**What was the significance of Hezekiah gathering the people at the "street of the gate of the city"?**

Answer: The "street of the gate of the city" (`rechov sha'ar ha'ir`) was a profoundly significant location in ancient Near Eastern cities, serving as the primary public square and the nerve center of urban life. It was the place where legal judgments were rendered, commercial transactions occurred, public announcements were made, and community gatherings took place. By gathering the entire populace here, Hezekiah ensured that his message would reach the widest possible audience, demonstrating transparency and direct engagement with his people in a moment of existential threat. Symbolically, the city gate was simultaneously the most vulnerable point of a city's defense and its most public, central hub. Hezekiah's presence at this critical juncture underscored the gravity of the Assyrian invasion and his personal commitment to the city's defense, fostering a vital sense of collective responsibility and unity among the populace. This public assembly also served as a powerful counter-measure to the psychological warfare often employed by the Assyrians, who typically sought to demoralize their enemies through intimidating rhetoric and public displays, as vividly illustrated by the Rabshakeh's taunts in [2 Kings 18:28-35](/2_kings/18-28-35 "2 Kings 18:28-35 - The Rabshakeh's Taunts"). It was a strategic move to rally the people's spirits and prepare them for a unified stand.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hezekiah's act of "speaking comfortably" to his people, literally "speaking to their heart," beautifully foreshadows the ultimate comfort, leadership, and deliverance found in Jesus Christ. While Hezekiah prepared his people for a physical battle against an earthly foe, Jesus, the true King and ultimate Shepherd of God's flock, prepares His people for the spiritual battles of life and for their eternal destiny. He is the one who truly "speaks to the heart," not merely with words of temporary encouragement but with words of eternal life, truth, and transformative grace, as when He tenderly declared, "[Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28 - Jesus' Invitation to Rest")." Unlike Hezekiah, whose comfort was rooted in God's future deliverance through human means, Christ Himself is the very embodiment of deliverance, the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). He is the Captain of our salvation, who not only organizes His followers into a spiritual army but also personally leads them, laying down His very life for them as the Good Shepherd ([John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus the Good Shepherd")). In Him, we find not just temporary comfort in crisis, but an enduring peace that transcends all understanding ([Philippians 4:7](/philippians/4-7 "Philippians 4:7 - The Peace of God")). His words, recorded in the Holy Scriptures, continue to speak profoundly to our hearts, providing guidance, hope, and the ultimate assurance of victory over sin, death, and the world through His finished work on the cross ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Jesus Overcomes the World")).

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

2 Chronicles 30:22

And Hezekiah spake comfortably unto all the Levites that taught the good knowledge of the LORD: and they did eat throughout the feast seven days, offering peace offerings, and making confession to the LORD God of their fathers.

Isaiah 40:2

Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned: for she hath received of the LORD'S hand double for all her sins.

Ezra 10:9

Then all the men of Judah and Benjamin gathered themselves together unto Jerusalem within three days. It [was] the ninth month, on the twentieth [day] of the month; and all the people sat in the street of the house of God, trembling because of [this] matter, and for the great rain.

Nehemiah 8:16

So the people went forth, and brought [them], and made themselves booths, every one upon the roof of his house, and in their courts, and in the courts of the house of God, and in the street of the water gate, and in the street of the gate of Ephraim.

2 Chronicles 17:14

And these [are] the numbers of them according to the house of their fathers: Of Judah, the captains of thousands; Adnah the chief, and with him mighty men of valour three hundred thousand.

2 Chronicles 17:19

These waited on the king, beside [those] whom the king put in the fenced cities throughout all Judah.

Genesis 34:3

And his soul clave unto Dinah the daughter of Jacob, and he loved the damsel, and spake kindly unto the damsel.