Isaiah 37:15

KJV

And Hezekiah prayed unto the LORD, saying,

KJV (with Strong's)

And Hezekiah {H2396} prayed {H6419} unto the LORD {H3068}, saying {H559},

Complete Jewish Bible

This is the prayer that Hizkiyahu prayed to ADONAI:

Berean Standard Bible

And Hezekiah prayed to the LORD:

American Standard Version

And Hezekiah prayed unto Jehovah, saying,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 37:15 marks a pivotal moment in the narrative of King Hezekiah and the kingdom of Judah, introducing Hezekiah's profound and immediate prayer to the LORD. This concise verse sets the stage for one of the Bible's most dramatic demonstrations of divine intervention, showcasing a righteous king's complete reliance on God in the face of an overwhelming and blasphemous Assyrian threat. It underscores the power of humble supplication and sets the trajectory for God's miraculous deliverance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 37:15 is situated within the broader narrative of Sennacherib's invasion of Judah, detailed in Isaiah chapters 36-39. This specific verse follows a series of escalating events: the Assyrian Rabshakeh's taunts and blasphemous challenge to the God of Israel ([Isaiah 36:18-20](/isaiah/36-18 "Isaiah 36:18-20 - Rabshakeh's Taunts")), Hezekiah's initial response of mourning and seeking divine counsel from the prophet Isaiah ([Isaiah 37:1-5](/isaiah/37-1 "Isaiah 37:1-5 - Hezekiah's Initial Response")), and Isaiah's reassuring prophecy of God's impending intervention ([Isaiah 37:6-7](/isaiah/37-6 "Isaiah 37:6-7 - Isaiah's Prophecy of Deliverance")). Having received a second, more direct, and blasphemous message from Sennacherib ([Isaiah 37:8-13](/isaiah/37-8 "Isaiah 37:8-13 - Sennacherib's Letter")), Hezekiah takes the letter to the temple and, as recorded in this verse, turns directly to the LORD in prayer, demonstrating his complete reliance on the Almighty in a seemingly hopeless situation that transcends human solutions. His prayer, which immediately follows this verse ([Isaiah 37:16-20](/isaiah/37-16 "Isaiah 37:16-20 - Hezekiah's Prayer")), is a powerful appeal to God's unique sovereignty.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of Isaiah 37 unfold during the late 8th century BCE, specifically around 701 BCE, when the mighty Neo-Assyrian Empire, under King Sennacherib, launched a devastating campaign against Judah. Assyria was the dominant superpower of the ancient Near East, known for its brutal military tactics and policy of deporting conquered peoples. By this time, many fortified cities of Judah had fallen, and Jerusalem itself was under siege. The Rabshakeh's taunts were not merely psychological warfare but also a theological challenge, asserting that the LORD was no different from the vanquished gods of other nations. In this cultural milieu, a king's primary duty was to protect his people, often through military strength or strategic alliances. Hezekiah, however, had already demonstrated a commitment to religious reform, removing idolatry and restoring proper worship of Yahweh ([2_kings/18-4](/2-kings/18-4 "2 Kings 18:4 - Hezekiah's Reforms")). His act of prayer in the temple, tearing his clothes and covering himself with sackcloth ([Isaiah 37:1](/isaiah/37-1 "Isaiah 37:1 - Hezekiah's Humiliation")), was a culturally understood sign of deep distress, humility, and earnest supplication before God, acknowledging divine sovereignty over human power.

* **Key Themes:** This verse encapsulates several major theological and narrative themes prevalent in Isaiah and throughout the Old Testament. Firstly, it highlights the **Sovereignty of God** over all nations and their rulers, even the seemingly invincible Assyrian Empire. Hezekiah's prayer is an appeal to this divine authority, recognizing that only God can deliver. Secondly, it powerfully demonstrates the **Power of Prayer**, especially in times of national crisis and spiritual attack. Hezekiah's immediate recourse to prayer underscores its efficacy as the primary response for a faithful leader. Thirdly, the narrative emphasizes **Divine Faithfulness and Deliverance**. Despite Judah's desperate situation, God remains faithful to His covenant promises, and Hezekiah's prayer becomes the catalyst for God's miraculous intervention, defending His own name and people against blasphemy and destruction ([Isaiah 37:36](/isaiah/37-36 "Isaiah 37:36 - God's Deliverance")). Finally, it showcases **Righteous Leadership**, as Hezekiah, unlike many previous kings, turns wholeheartedly to the LORD rather than relying on political maneuvering or military might alone, embodying the ideal of a king who trusts in God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Hezekiah (Hebrew, _Chizqîyâh'_):** This name, meaning "strengthened of Jah" or "Yahweh strengthens," is highly significant in this context. It points to the source of strength for the king and, by extension, for Judah. In a moment of extreme national weakness and human inability, the very name of the king serves as a theological statement, foreshadowing that the strength for deliverance will come from the LORD (Jah/Yahweh) alone, not from Hezekiah's own power or military might.
* **prayed (Hebrew, _pâlal'_):** The verb "prayed" (וַיִּתְפַּלֵּל - _vayitpallel_) comes from the root _pâlal_, which means "to judge (officially or mentally); by extension, to intercede, pray." In the Hithpael stem, as used here, it conveys the reflexive sense of "to pray oneself," "to intercede for oneself," or "to humble oneself in prayer." This form emphasizes the earnestness, intensity, and personal engagement of Hezekiah in his supplication. It signifies not merely uttering words, but a deep, self-reflective act of appealing to God, often involving self-abasement and seeking divine judgment or intervention.
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** This is the sacred covenant name of God, YHWH (Jehovah), derived from the root "to be" (הָיָה - _hayah_), signifying "the self-Existent" or "the Eternal One." Hezekiah's addressing God by this name is crucial. It is an appeal to God's personal, covenantal relationship with Israel, His faithfulness to His promises, and His unique identity as the one true God, distinct from the powerless deities of Assyria. It underscores that Hezekiah is not praying to a generic deity but to the specific, living God who has revealed Himself to His people and is committed to their well-being and His own glory.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Hezekiah":** This opening phrase immediately identifies the central human figure in this pivotal moment. Hezekiah, as king, bears the weight of his nation's crisis. His name, meaning "Yahweh strengthens," subtly foreshadows the divine intervention that will follow, emphasizing that the strength for deliverance will come from God, not from human might.
* **"prayed unto the LORD":** This clause describes Hezekiah's decisive and immediate action in the face of overwhelming threat and blasphemy. His turning to "the LORD" (YHWH, God's covenant name) signifies his complete reliance on God's power, faithfulness, and unique sovereignty. The act of prayer itself, particularly the Hebrew verb used, implies a humble, earnest, and deeply personal appeal, acknowledging God as the ultimate authority and source of deliverance when all human options have failed.
* **"saying":** This simple word serves as a direct transition, indicating that the verse is an introduction to Hezekiah's subsequent, more extensive prayer. It signals to the reader that the king's prayer is not merely an internal thought but an articulated, formal address to God, the content of which will be revealed in the verses that follow. It sets the expectation for a significant and impactful petition.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 37:15, though brief, employs several significant literary devices. The most prominent is **Narrative Introduction**, as it serves as the crucial pivot point, shifting the focus from the Assyrian threat and Hezekiah's initial response to his direct interaction with God through prayer. This verse also utilizes **Foreshadowing**; Hezekiah's act of prayer, especially given his name's meaning ("Yahweh strengthens"), subtly hints at the divine strength and intervention that will soon manifest. Furthermore, there is an element of **Emphasis through Action**. The simple, direct statement that "Hezekiah prayed unto the LORD" highlights the king's immediate and appropriate spiritual response to an existential crisis, underscoring the importance of seeking God first. The brevity of the verse itself, followed by the detailed prayer in the subsequent verses, creates a sense of **Anticipation**, building suspense for the content of Hezekiah's supplication and the divine response it will elicit.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 37:15 profoundly illustrates the theological principle that in times of overwhelming crisis, the appropriate and most powerful response for God's people, and especially their leaders, is humble and earnest prayer to the sovereign LORD. Hezekiah's action demonstrates a deep understanding of God's unique power and His covenant faithfulness, recognizing that human strength and wisdom are utterly insufficient against a seemingly insurmountable foe. This verse establishes prayer not as a last resort, but as the primary and most effective means of engaging with the divine will, leading to miraculous intervention and the vindication of God's holy name. It underscores that God hears and responds to the cries of His faithful, particularly when His glory is challenged.

* [Psalm 50:15](/psalm/50-15 "Psalm 50:15 - Call Upon Me in the Day of Trouble")
* [Jeremiah 33:3](/jeremiah/33-3 "Jeremiah 33:3 - Call to Me and I Will Answer You")
* [Philippians 4:6-7](/philippians/4-6 "Philippians 4:6-7 - Do Not Be Anxious, But Pray")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 37:15 serves as a timeless and powerful reminder that prayer is not merely a spiritual exercise but a dynamic and potent act of faith that can change the course of history and personal circumstances. In our own lives, when confronted with challenges that seem insurmountable—whether personal crises, societal pressures, or spiritual attacks—Hezekiah's example calls us to an immediate and wholehearted turning to the LORD. It teaches us to lay our fears, our anxieties, and even the blasphemies directed against God's name, directly before Him in humble and earnest supplication. This verse encourages us to cultivate a habit of immediate and profound reliance on God, trusting that He hears and acts on behalf of those who sincerely call upon Him, often in ways that far exceed our expectations or human capabilities. It invites us to recognize that our greatest strength lies not in our own resources, but in our complete dependence on the Almighty.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What is my immediate response when faced with overwhelming challenges or threats? Do I, like Hezekiah, turn to God in prayer first?**
* **How does Hezekiah's humility in prayer, despite his royal position, challenge my own approach to seeking God?**
* **In what ways am I trusting in human solutions or my own strength rather than fully relying on the LORD for deliverance?**
* **How can I cultivate a deeper, more consistent habit of bringing all my concerns, big and small, to God in prayer?**

### FAQ
**What was the immediate context that prompted Hezekiah's prayer in Isaiah 37:15?**

Answer: Hezekiah's prayer was prompted by the dire threat of the Assyrian invasion under King Sennacherib, who had already conquered many cities in Judah and was now besieging Jerusalem. More specifically, it was a direct response to a blasphemous letter from Sennacherib, delivered by his field commander, Rabshakeh, which mocked Hezekiah and, more significantly, challenged the power and uniqueness of the LORD, claiming He was no different from the gods of other nations that Assyria had easily subdued. Hezekiah took this letter into the temple, spreading it before the LORD as an act of profound supplication, as detailed in [Isaiah 37:14](/isaiah/37-14 "Isaiah 37:14 - Hezekiah Spreads the Letter Before the LORD").

**Why is Hezekiah's act of prayer so significant in this narrative?**

Answer: Hezekiah's prayer is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it demonstrates his profound faith and complete reliance on God in a seemingly hopeless situation where human strength and wisdom were insufficient. Instead of resorting to political maneuvering or military strategy alone, he turned directly to the divine. Secondly, it underscores the power of prayer as a catalyst for divine intervention. His prayer becomes the immediate prelude to God's miraculous deliverance of Jerusalem from the Assyrian army, as seen in [Isaiah 37:36](/isaiah/37-36 "Isaiah 37:36 - The Angel of the LORD Strikes the Assyrians"). Thirdly, it highlights the theme of God's sovereignty and His commitment to defending His own name and people when they call upon Him, especially when His honor is challenged by pagan powers.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Hezekiah's prayer in Isaiah 37:15, offered in a moment of national crisis and spiritual attack, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in several ways. Just as Hezekiah interceded for his people against an overwhelming enemy, Jesus Christ is our ultimate and perfect intercessor, standing in the gap for us before the Father. Hezekiah's reliance on the LORD for deliverance from a physical enemy foreshadows Christ's victory over the ultimate spiritual enemies: sin, death, and the devil. Where Hezekiah's prayer was a plea for God's intervention, Christ's life, death, and resurrection *are* God's decisive intervention, securing eternal deliverance for all who believe.

Jesus, the true King, not only prayed for His disciples and all believers ([John 17:9-26](/john/17-9 "John 17:9-26 - Jesus' High Priestly Prayer")) but also offered Himself as the ultimate sacrifice, fulfilling the need for divine judgment and providing the basis for our access to God. His victory on the cross disarmed the spiritual powers and authorities ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). Moreover, as our Great High Priest, Jesus "always lives to make intercession" for us ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Eternal Intercession")), ensuring that our prayers are heard and that we receive grace and mercy in our time of need ([Hebrews 4:16](/hebrews/4-16 "Hebrews 4:16 - Approach the Throne of Grace with Confidence")). Thus, Hezekiah's turning to the LORD in desperate prayer points forward to the one in whom all our prayers are answered and through whom ultimate salvation and victory are secured.

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

Daniel 9:3

And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes:

Daniel 9:4

¶ And I prayed unto the LORD my God, and made my confession, and said, O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love him, and to them that keep his commandments;

2 Chronicles 14:11

And Asa cried unto the LORD his God, and said, LORD, [it is] nothing with thee to help, whether with many, or with them that have no power: help us, O LORD our God; for we rest on thee, and in thy name we go against this multitude. O LORD, thou [art] our God; let not man prevail against thee.

Philippians 4:6

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

Philippians 4:7

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

James 5:13

Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms.

2 Kings 19:15

And Hezekiah prayed before the LORD, and said, O LORD God of Israel, which dwellest [between] the cherubims, thou art the God, [even] thou alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth; thou hast made heaven and earth.