2 Kings 20:16

KJV

And Isaiah said unto Hezekiah, Hear the word of the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Isaiah {H3470} said {H559} unto Hezekiah {H2396}, Hear {H8085} the word {H1697} of the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Yesha'yahu said to Hizkiyahu, "Hear what ADONAI says:

Berean Standard Bible

Then Isaiah said to Hezekiah, “Hear the word of the LORD:

American Standard Version

And Isaiah said unto Hezekiah, Hear the word of Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Kings 20:16 marks a solemn and pivotal moment in the narrative of King Hezekiah's reign, as the prophet Isaiah delivers a direct, divinely authoritative message. This verse serves as the immediate and urgent preamble to a significant prophecy concerning the future judgment and exile of Judah. It highlights God's swift and unwavering response to Hezekiah's recent display of pride and misplaced trust in worldly alliances and riches, underscoring the absolute nature of God's word and His demand for accountability, even from a generally righteous king.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This pronouncement by Isaiah comes directly on the heels of King Hezekiah's miraculous recovery from a terminal illness, a recovery granted by God who added fifteen years to his life and provided a miraculous sign of the sun's shadow moving backward ([2 Kings 20:1-11](/2_kings/20-1-11 "2 Kings 20:1-11 - Hezekiah's Illness and Recovery")). Following this profound divine intervention, Hezekiah received envoys from Merodach-Baladan, the king of Babylon, ostensibly to congratulate him on his recovery. In a moment of profound misjudgment, Hezekiah chose to display all the treasures of his palace, his armory, and all his vast wealth to these foreign officials ([2 Kings 20:12-13](/2_kings/20-12-13 "2 Kings 20:12-13 - Hezekiah Shows His Treasures to Babylon")). This act, whether born of pride, a desire to impress, or an attempt to forge a strategic alliance, demonstrated a reliance on earthly power and riches rather than a continued, exclusive trust in the Lord who had just miraculously healed him. Isaiah's arrival and immediate pronouncement in verse 16 indicate that Hezekiah's actions did not go unnoticed by God, and the prophet is sent to confront the king with the divine consequences of his lapse in judgment, setting the stage for the devastating prophecy of the Babylonian exile ([2 Kings 20:17-18](/2_kings/20-17-18 "2 Kings 20:17-18 - Isaiah's Prophecy of Exile")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period of Hezekiah's reign (late 8th century BCE) was fraught with geopolitical tension, primarily dominated by the formidable Assyrian Empire. Judah, a small kingdom, constantly navigated alliances and threats from larger powers. Babylon, though not yet the dominant world power it would become, was an emerging force and a rival to Assyria. Merodach-Baladan's embassy to Hezekiah was likely not merely a courtesy call but a diplomatic overture aimed at forming an anti-Assyrian coalition. Hezekiah's display of wealth would have been perceived as a show of strength and a potential enticement for such an alliance. Culturally, kings were expected to demonstrate power and wealth, but for a king of Judah, whose covenant with Yahweh demanded exclusive loyalty and trust, such a display to foreign powers without divine counsel was a serious transgression. It implied a reliance on human resources and foreign alliances rather than the God who had repeatedly delivered Judah, most recently from the Assyrian siege ([2 Kings 19](/2_kings/19 "2 Kings 19 - Sennacherib's Defeat")). The role of the prophet, like Isaiah, was to serve as God's direct mouthpiece, often confronting kings and nations with divine truth and judgment, regardless of their status or the political implications.
* **Key Themes:** The immediate context of [2 Kings 20:16](/2_kings/20-16 "2 Kings 20:16 - Isaiah's Prophecy to Hezekiah") contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Kings and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully underscores the theme of **Divine Authority and Revelation**. The phrase "Hear the word of the LORD" is a classic prophetic formula, emphasizing that the message is not Isaiah's personal opinion or political analysis, but a direct, infallible communication from God Himself. This establishes the absolute authority and certainty of the coming prophecy, reminding both Hezekiah and the reader that God is sovereign over human affairs and holds kings accountable. Secondly, the verse highlights **Accountability and the Consequences of Pride**. Despite Hezekiah's generally righteous reign and his profound trust in God during the Assyrian crisis, his moment of pride and lack of discernment in displaying his treasures to the Babylonians is met with immediate divine scrutiny. This demonstrates that God sees beyond outward appearances and even past faithfulness, examining the heart and intentions. It teaches that even seemingly small acts of human pride or misplaced trust can have far-reaching, negative consequences, as seen in the subsequent prophecy of exile. Finally, the imperative "Hear" (Hebrew: _shema'_) introduces the theme of **The Call to Listen and Obey**. In Hebrew thought, _shema'_ implies much more than mere auditory perception; it carries the weight of listening attentively, understanding deeply, and responding with obedience. Isaiah's command is a call for Hezekiah to truly internalize and submit to God's forthcoming message, no matter how difficult or unwelcome. This echoes the foundational biblical call to [“hear and obey” God’s commandments](/deuteronomy/6-4 "Deuteronomy 6:4 - The Shema") and to allow His word to shape one's actions and future.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Hear (Hebrew, _shâmaʻ'_):** This Hebrew imperative is more than a simple command to perceive sound. In the biblical context, _shâmaʻ'_ implies active, attentive listening that leads to understanding, internalization, and ultimately, obedient action. It is a foundational concept in Israelite faith, signifying a deep engagement with God's word that results in a transformation of behavior and thought. Here, it demands Hezekiah's full attention and submission to the divine message, signaling that the word is not merely for information but for a decisive response.
* **Word (Hebrew, _dâbâr'_):** The term "word" here refers to a divine utterance, a decree, or a message originating directly from God. It carries inherent authority, truthfulness, and power. When it is "the word of the LORD," it is not subject to human debate or alteration; it is absolute and will certainly come to pass. This emphasizes the gravity and certainty of the prophecy Isaiah is about to deliver, highlighting its divine origin and inevitable fulfillment.
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** This is the sacred, covenantal name of God, often rendered as "the LORD" in English translations. It signifies God's personal, relational, and unchanging character, as well as His supreme sovereignty and faithfulness to His promises and warnings. The use of _Yᵉhôvâh'_ underscores that the message comes from the very God who made a covenant with Israel, who delivered them from Egypt, and who had just miraculously healed Hezekiah and saved Jerusalem from Assyria. It is a reminder that the one speaking is the ultimate authority over all creation and history, and His word carries ultimate weight.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Isaiah said unto Hezekiah":** This opening clause establishes the immediate context of a direct confrontation between the prophet and the king. Isaiah, as God's appointed messenger, is not merely offering advice or engaging in a casual conversation. His presence and words are imbued with divine authority, indicating that a significant, divinely-initiated communication is about to take place. The setting is intimate yet weighty, signaling a moment of divine reckoning and the delivery of a crucial message from the Sovereign God.
* **"Hear the word of the LORD":** This is a powerful prophetic formula, an imperative command that immediately elevates the ensuing message beyond human counsel or political discourse. The verb "Hear" (שְׁמַע, _shâmaʻ'_) demands not just auditory reception but active, obedient attention and internalization. The source of the message is explicitly identified as "the LORD" (יְהוָה, _Yᵉhôvâh'_), the covenant God of Israel, emphasizing its absolute truth, authority, and inevitability. This phrase serves as a solemn call to attention, preparing Hezekiah for a revelation that will have profound and far-reaching consequences for his kingdom and descendants.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several potent **literary devices** to convey its gravity and authority. The most prominent is **Direct Discourse**, where Isaiah's exact words are recorded, giving the pronouncement an immediate, impactful, and undeniable quality. This allows the reader to experience the confrontation directly, emphasizing the urgency and personal nature of the divine message. The use of the **Imperative Mood** in "Hear" (שְׁמַע) is crucial; it is not a suggestion but a command, highlighting the non-negotiable nature of God's word and the required response of obedience. This imperative functions as a **Call to Attention**, a common feature in prophetic literature designed to prepare the recipient for a weighty revelation. Furthermore, the phrase "the word of the LORD" acts as a **Prophetic Formula** or **Divine Oracle Formula**, a recurring linguistic marker in the Old Testament that signals the divine origin and absolute authority of the message being delivered. This formula immediately elevates the message above human opinion, stamping it with the seal of divine truth and certainty and underscoring its binding nature.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This singular verse, "And Isaiah said unto Hezekiah, Hear the word of the LORD," encapsulates profound theological truths concerning divine communication, human accountability, and the nature of true faith. It serves as a stark reminder that God is not a distant deity but actively engages with human history, holding even His chosen leaders accountable for their actions and attitudes. Hezekiah, despite his many commendable acts of faith, succumbed to a moment of pride and misplaced trust, revealing his heart to the Babylonian envoys rather than guarding it before God. God's immediate response through Isaiah demonstrates His unwavering commitment to His covenant and His justice, signaling that even moments of success can be perilous if they lead to self-reliance rather than continued dependence on Him. The call to "hear" is a timeless theological mandate, emphasizing that genuine faith involves not just intellectual assent but a profound, obedient reception of God's revealed will, which shapes one's character and destiny.

* [Deuteronomy 18:18-19](/deuteronomy/18-18-19 "The Prophet Like Moses")
* [Proverbs 16:18](/proverbs/16-18 "Pride Goes Before a Fall")
* [Hebrews 3:7-8](/hebrews/3-7-8 "Do Not Harden Your Hearts Today")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The scene in [2 Kings 20:16](/2_kings/20-16 "2 Kings 20:16 - Isaiah's Prophecy to Hezekiah"), where Isaiah confronts Hezekiah with "the word of the LORD," offers a powerful and enduring lesson for believers today. It reminds us that God's word is living and active, always relevant, and demands our full attention and obedience. In moments of success, blessing, or even miraculous intervention, it is easy to become complacent, to let our guard down, or to subtly shift our trust from God to our own achievements or resources. Hezekiah's mistake was not necessarily malicious, but it revealed a momentary lapse in his complete reliance on God, leading him to seek human affirmation or alliances rather than resting solely in divine provision. This verse calls us to cultivate a posture of humility, constantly seeking God's counsel through His Word and prayer, and being prepared to hear truths that may challenge our comfort or expose our hidden pride. Our actions, even those we deem insignificant, can have far-reaching consequences, and God's word often illuminates these connections, guiding us toward wisdom, faithfulness, and sustained dependence on Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life, especially after experiencing God's blessings or successes, might I be prone to pride or misplaced trust in my own abilities or worldly resources?**
* **How actively do I "hear" (listen, understand, and obey) the word of the LORD in my daily life, particularly when it confronts my comfortable assumptions or challenges my desires?**
* **What seemingly small actions or decisions might I be making that could have long-term spiritual consequences, and how can I bring these before God for discernment and course correction?**
* **How does Hezekiah's example encourage me to remain humble and dependent on God, even in times of great success or spiritual growth, recognizing that true security comes only from Him?**

### FAQ
**Why did Isaiah confront Hezekiah immediately after the Babylonian envoys left?**

Answer: Isaiah's immediate confrontation highlights God's swift and direct response to Hezekiah's actions. The timing underscores that God is intimately aware of human choices, even those made in private or seemingly innocuous diplomatic gestures. Hezekiah's display of his kingdom's wealth to the Babylonians was not a neutral act; it indicated a reliance on earthly power and a potential desire for a human alliance, rather than exclusive trust in the Lord who had just miraculously delivered him and his city from the Assyrians ([2 Kings 19](/2_kings/19 "2 Kings 19 - Sennacherib's Defeat")). God, through Isaiah, was revealing that He holds His chosen leaders accountable for their heart attitudes and actions, particularly when those actions demonstrate a departure from complete dependence on Him. The immediate confrontation also served to connect the cause (Hezekiah's prideful display) directly to the effect (the impending judgment of exile), making the divine message clear and undeniable.

**What is the deeper significance of the phrase "Hear the word of the LORD"?**

Answer: This phrase is a powerful and recurring prophetic formula that carries immense theological weight. "Hear" (Hebrew: _shâmaʻ'_) implies more than just auditory perception; it demands active, attentive listening that leads to understanding, internalization, and obedient response. It is a call to full engagement with the divine message, not mere passive reception. "The word of the LORD" emphasizes the divine origin and absolute authority of the message. It signifies that what follows is not human opinion or political counsel, but the infallible, certain, and powerful utterance of God Himself. This phrase establishes the gravity of the message, its truthfulness, and its demand for a decisive response, underscoring God's sovereignty and His right to speak into human affairs with ultimate authority. It is a summons to align one's will with the divine will.

**Was Hezekiah's action of showing his treasures truly that bad to warrant such a severe prophecy?**

Answer: While on the surface it might seem like a minor diplomatic misstep, Hezekiah's action revealed a deeper spiritual flaw: pride and a misplaced trust in human resources and alliances. After experiencing God's miraculous healing and deliverance, Hezekiah's heart turned towards self-glorification and a desire to impress a foreign power with his wealth and military might. This act was a subtle but significant departure from the exclusive trust in Yahweh that had characterized his earlier, righteous reign. In the covenant context of Israel, relying on foreign alliances or displaying wealth as a sign of strength rather than trusting in God alone was a serious offense, often leading to apostasy and judgment. The severity of the prophecy (the future Babylonian exile of his descendants and the plundering of his treasures, [2 Kings 20:17-18](/2_kings/20-17-18 "2 Kings 20:17-18 - Isaiah's Prophecy of Exile")) underscores that God views such pride and misplaced trust as a fundamental breach of covenant loyalty, with far-reaching consequences for the nation. It was not merely a tactical error but a spiritual one, exposing a vulnerability in Hezekiah's heart that God, in His justice and sovereignty, addressed directly.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The imperative "Hear the word of the LORD" in [2 Kings 20:16](/2_kings/20-16 "2 Kings 20:16 - Isaiah's Prophecy to Hezekiah") finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While Isaiah was God's mouthpiece, delivering a specific word of judgment and prophecy, Jesus is the very [Word of God made flesh](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Became Flesh") ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). In the Old Testament, God spoke "at various times and in various ways by the prophets," but in these last days, He has spoken to us "by His Son" ([Hebrews 1:1-2](/hebrews/1-1-2 "Hebrews 1:1-2 - God Has Spoken Through His Son")). The call to "hear the word of the LORD" transforms into the call to "listen to Him" ([Matthew 17:5](/matthew/17-5 "Matthew 17:5 - Listen to Him")), as commanded by God the Father on the Mount of Transfiguration. Hezekiah's failure to fully heed God's word in a moment of pride, leading to the prophecy of exile, foreshadows humanity's universal failure to obey God's voice, resulting in spiritual separation and the need for a perfect mediator. Jesus, as the perfect Prophet, Priest, and King, perfectly embodies and delivers God's ultimate word of salvation. He is the one whose words bring life ([John 6:68](/john/6-68 "John 6:68 - Words of Eternal Life")) and whose voice the true sheep hear and follow ([John 10:27](/john/10-27 "John 10:27 - My Sheep Hear My Voice")). Thus, [2 Kings 20:16](/2_kings/20-16 "2 Kings 20:16 - Isaiah's Prophecy to Hezekiah"), with its solemn call to hear God's authoritative word, points forward to the supreme authority and saving power found in the person and message of Jesus Christ, the Living Word, who perfectly fulfills all prophecy and calls all humanity to true _shema'_—obedient hearing that leads to eternal life and reconciliation with 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

1 Kings 22:19

And he said, Hear thou therefore the word of the LORD: I saw the LORD sitting on his throne, and all the host of heaven standing by him on his right hand and on his left.

Isaiah 1:10

¶ Hear the word of the LORD, ye rulers of Sodom; give ear unto the law of our God, ye people of Gomorrah.

2 Kings 7:1

¶ Then Elisha said, Hear ye the word of the LORD; Thus saith the LORD, To morrow about this time [shall] a measure of fine flour [be sold] for a shekel, and two measures of barley for a shekel, in the gate of Samaria.

Amos 7:16

Now therefore hear thou the word of the LORD: Thou sayest, Prophesy not against Israel, and drop not [thy word] against the house of Isaac.