In those days
This phrase situates the events within a specific historical context, during the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah. It refers to a period when the Assyrian Empire was a dominant threat, and Judah was under significant pressure. The phrase connects to the broader narrative of Hezekiah's reign, which is detailed in 2 Kings 18-20 and 2 Chronicles 29-32.

Hezekiah became mortally ill.
Hezekiah's illness is a pivotal moment in his life and reign. The nature of the illness is not specified, but it was severe enough to be life-threatening. This event tests Hezekiah's faith and reliance on God. It also serves as a backdrop for a miraculous healing, which is a testament to God's power and mercy.

The prophet Isaiah son of Amoz came to him
Isaiah, a major prophet in the Hebrew Bible, plays a crucial role as God's messenger. His lineage, being the son of Amoz, establishes his authority and credibility. Isaiah's involvement highlights the close relationship between the prophet and the king, as well as the importance of prophetic guidance in the affairs of the nation.

and said, “This is what the LORD says:
This introduction underscores the divine authority behind Isaiah's message. It is not merely Isaiah's opinion but a direct communication from God. This phrase is a common prophetic formula, emphasizing that the message is to be taken seriously as the word of the LORD.

‘Put your house in order,
This command implies that Hezekiah should prepare for his impending death by settling his affairs, both personal and political. It suggests the importance of readiness and responsibility, reflecting the biblical principle of stewardship over one's life and duties.

for you are about to die;
The announcement of Hezekiah's impending death is direct and unequivocal. It serves as a reminder of human mortality and the sovereignty of God over life and death. This moment of crisis becomes an opportunity for Hezekiah to seek God's intervention.

you will not recover.’”
The initial prognosis is grim, indicating that without divine intervention, Hezekiah's condition is terminal. This sets the stage for a dramatic turn of events, as Hezekiah's subsequent prayer and God's response demonstrate the power of faith and prayer. This phrase also foreshadows the miraculous extension of Hezekiah's life, which is a testament to God's grace and the efficacy of earnest supplication.

Then Hezekiah turned his face to the wall
Hezekiah's action of turning his face to the wall signifies a personal and intimate moment of prayer, seeking privacy and focus away from distractions. In the cultural context of ancient Near Eastern practices, turning to the wall could symbolize turning away from the world and towards God. This act reflects a deep sense of urgency and desperation, as Hezekiah was facing a terminal illness. The wall may also represent a boundary, indicating Hezekiah's desire to separate himself from his current circumstances and seek divine intervention.

and prayed to the LORD
Hezekiah's prayer to the LORD demonstrates his faith and reliance on God during a time of crisis. This moment is significant as it shows Hezekiah's understanding of the LORD as the ultimate source of help and healing. The act of prayer is a central theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing the importance of communication with God. Hezekiah's prayer is a model of earnest supplication, reflecting the biblical principle that God hears and responds to the prayers of the righteous (James 5:16). This event is also connected to other instances where prayer led to divine intervention, such as Elijah's prayer for rain (1 Kings 18:42-45) and Daniel's prayer for understanding (Daniel 9:3-23).

saying, “Please, O LORD, remember how I have walked before You faithfully and with wholehearted devotion; I have done what is good in Your sight.”
This plea from Hezekiah reflects a deep personal relationship with God, emphasizing the covenantal aspect of Israel's faith. The phrase "walked before You" suggests a life lived in conscious awareness of God's presence, reminiscent of Enoch and Noah, who also "walked with God" (Genesis 5:24, 6:9). Hezekiah's claim of faithfulness and wholehearted devotion highlights the biblical theme of integrity and sincerity in one's relationship with God, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:5, which commands love for God with all one's heart. The appeal to having done "what is good" aligns with the Deuteronomic history, where kings are often evaluated based on their adherence to God's laws (2 Kings 18:3-6). This reflects the cultural and religious expectation of a king to lead by example in righteousness.

And Hezekiah wept bitterly.
Hezekiah's tears indicate the depth of his distress and the sincerity of his prayer. In the ancient Near Eastern context, weeping was a common expression of grief and earnest supplication. The mention of weeping also connects to other biblical figures who expressed their anguish through tears, such as David (Psalm 6:6) and Jeremiah (Jeremiah 9:1). This emotional response underscores the human aspect of biblical characters, making them relatable to readers. Hezekiah's weeping can also be seen as a type of Christ, who wept over Jerusalem (Luke 19:41) and at Lazarus's tomb (John 11:35), showing compassion and empathy. The narrative context of Hezekiah's illness and impending death (Isaiah 38:1) adds urgency to his prayer, illustrating the biblical principle that God hears the cries of the righteous (Psalm 34:17).

And the word of the LORD
This phrase emphasizes the divine origin of the message. In the Hebrew Bible, the "word of the LORD" often signifies a direct communication from God, highlighting the authority and truth of the message. This phrase is used throughout the Old Testament to introduce prophetic messages, underscoring the role of prophets as God's messengers. It reflects the belief that God actively communicates with His people, guiding and instructing them through His chosen servants.

came to Isaiah,
Isaiah, a major prophet in the Old Testament, served during the reigns of several kings of Judah, including Hezekiah. His role was to convey God's messages to the people and the leaders of Judah. Isaiah's ministry was marked by both warnings of judgment and promises of hope and restoration. The phrase indicates that Isaiah was the recipient of God's message, reinforcing his position as a trusted prophet. Isaiah's prophecies often included both immediate and future fulfillments, pointing to the coming of the Messiah.

saying,
This introduces the specific message that God is about to deliver through Isaiah. The use of "saying" indicates that what follows is a direct quotation from God, lending it significant weight and authority. In the context of Isaiah 38, the message pertains to King Hezekiah's illness and God's response to his prayer. This highlights the personal nature of God's communication, as He addresses specific situations and individuals. The prophetic message that follows serves as both a response to Hezekiah's circumstances and a broader testament to God's faithfulness and power.

Go and tell Hezekiah
This directive is given to the prophet Isaiah, emphasizing the role of prophets as messengers of God. Hezekiah was the king of Judah, known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to restore proper worship in Jerusalem. His reign is documented in 2 Kings 18-20 and 2 Chronicles 29-32.

that this is what the LORD, the God of your father David, says:
The reference to "the God of your father David" highlights the Davidic covenant, which promised that David's lineage would endure forever (2 Samuel 7:12-16). This connection underscores God's faithfulness to His promises and the special relationship He has with the house of David, of which Hezekiah is a part.

I have heard your prayer;
Hezekiah's prayer is a demonstration of his reliance on God in times of distress. This phrase assures that God is attentive to the prayers of His people, a theme echoed throughout Scripture (e.g., Psalm 34:17, James 5:16). It also reflects the personal relationship between God and His followers.

I have seen your tears.
This indicates God's compassion and awareness of human suffering. Tears often symbolize deep emotional distress and repentance in the Bible (e.g., Psalm 56:8, 2 Kings 20:5). God's acknowledgment of Hezekiah's tears shows His empathy and readiness to respond to genuine sorrow.

Behold, I will add fifteen years to your life.
This promise of extended life is a direct response to Hezekiah's prayer and tears, demonstrating God's power over life and death. It also serves as a sign of God's mercy and grace. The specific number of years is significant, as it provides Hezekiah with a tangible assurance of God's intervention. This extension of life can be seen as a type of resurrection, prefiguring the ultimate victory over death through Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:54-57).

And I will deliver you and this city from the hand of the king of Assyria.
This promise of deliverance is given to King Hezekiah during a time of great threat from the Assyrian Empire, led by King Sennacherib. Historically, the Assyrians were known for their military prowess and had already conquered many surrounding nations, including the northern kingdom of Israel. The city referred to here is Jerusalem, the capital of Judah, which was under siege. This deliverance is a direct intervention by God, emphasizing His sovereignty and power over even the mightiest of earthly kings. The phrase also echoes God's covenantal faithfulness to His people, reminiscent of His deliverance of Israel from Egypt. This act of deliverance can be seen as a type of Christ, who delivers believers from the bondage of sin.

I will defend this city.
The defense of Jerusalem is not just a military action but a divine assurance of protection. This promise highlights God's role as a protector and defender of His chosen people. In the broader biblical narrative, Jerusalem holds significant theological importance as the city of David and the location of the temple, symbolizing God's presence among His people. The defense of the city is also a fulfillment of God's promises to David that his lineage would endure. This assurance can be connected to other scriptures where God is depicted as a fortress and shield for His people, such as in Psalms. The defense of Jerusalem foreshadows the ultimate defense and salvation found in Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as the cornerstone of the spiritual temple, the Church.

This will be a sign to you from the LORD
In biblical times, signs were often used by God to confirm His promises or to demonstrate His power. This phrase indicates that God is providing a tangible assurance to Hezekiah. Signs from the LORD are seen throughout Scripture, such as the rainbow in Genesis 9:13 as a sign of God's covenant with Noah, or the virgin birth in Isaiah 7:14 as a sign of the coming Messiah. The use of signs underscores God's willingness to communicate and affirm His intentions to His people.

that He will do
This phrase emphasizes God's active role in fulfilling His promises. It reflects the biblical theme of God's faithfulness and sovereignty. In the context of Isaiah 38, God is responding to Hezekiah's prayer and is about to perform a miraculous act. This assurance is consistent with other biblical narratives where God intervenes in human history, such as the deliverance of Israel from Egypt (Exodus 3:8) or the promise of restoration in Jeremiah 29:10-14.

what He has promised:
The promise in this context refers to God's assurance to Hezekiah that he will recover from his illness and that the city of Jerusalem will be delivered from the Assyrian threat. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's covenant faithfulness. Throughout Scripture, God is depicted as a promise-keeper, from His covenant with Abraham in Genesis 12:1-3 to the new covenant in Christ (Hebrews 8:6). The fulfillment of God's promises often serves as a testament to His reliability and the trustworthiness of His word.

I will make the sun’s shadow that falls on the stairway of Ahaz go back ten steps.
This phrase refers to a miraculous sign given by God to King Hezekiah as a confirmation of his healing and the extension of his life. The "stairway of Ahaz" likely refers to a sundial or a series of steps used to measure time by the position of the sun's shadow. Ahaz, Hezekiah's father, was a previous king of Judah, and this structure was associated with him. The miracle of the shadow moving backward is significant as it demonstrates God's control over nature and time, emphasizing His sovereignty. This event is unique in biblical history and serves as a powerful sign of divine intervention. Theologically, it underscores God's ability to alter the natural order, which is a theme seen in other biblical miracles, such as the parting of the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21-22) and the stopping of the sun in Joshua 10:12-14.

So the sunlight went back the ten steps it had descended.
This confirms the fulfillment of God's promise to Hezekiah. The reversal of the sun's shadow is a physical manifestation of God's power and faithfulness. It also serves as a typology of resurrection and renewal, as Hezekiah's life is extended, symbolizing new life. This event can be seen as a precursor to the ultimate miracle of resurrection found in Jesus Christ, who is described as the "light of the world" (John 8:12). Theologically, this miracle reassures believers of God's ability to intervene in human affairs and His willingness to provide signs to strengthen faith. Historically, such an event would have been awe-inspiring and served to reinforce Hezekiah's faith and the faith of the people of Judah in God's promises.

This is a writing by Hezekiah king of Judah
Hezekiah was the 13th king of Judah, known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to restore proper worship in the temple. His reign is detailed in 2 Kings 18-20 and 2 Chronicles 29-32. Hezekiah's leadership was marked by significant religious reforms, including the removal of high places and the destruction of idols. His trust in God was evident during the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem, where he sought divine intervention and was delivered from the threat. The mention of "writing" indicates a personal reflection or testimony, which was a common practice for kings and leaders to document significant events or divine encounters.

after his illness and recovery:
Hezekiah's illness is described in Isaiah 38:1-8 and 2 Kings 20:1-11, where he was struck with a life-threatening condition. The prophet Isaiah informed him that he would not recover, but after Hezekiah's fervent prayer, God extended his life by 15 years. This miraculous recovery was confirmed by a sign from God, where the shadow on the sundial moved backward. The illness and subsequent healing highlight themes of divine mercy, the power of prayer, and God's sovereignty over life and death. This event also serves as a type of resurrection, prefiguring the ultimate healing and restoration found in Jesus Christ.

I said,
This phrase introduces a personal lament, indicating a direct speech from Hezekiah, the king of Judah. It reflects a moment of introspection and personal expression, common in biblical poetry and lamentations. Hezekiah's words are recorded in a historical context where personal prayers and reflections were often documented, as seen in the Psalms.

“In the prime of my life
Hezekiah refers to the "prime of my life," suggesting he was at an age where he expected to have many more years ahead. Historically, Hezekiah was around 39 years old at this time, which was considered relatively young, especially for a king. This phrase underscores the tragedy of his impending death, as he feels his life is being cut short prematurely.

I must go through the gates of Sheol
"Sheol" in ancient Hebrew culture was understood as the abode of the dead, a shadowy place where all went after death, regardless of their moral standing. The "gates of Sheol" metaphorically represent the entrance to this realm. This reflects the ancient Near Eastern understanding of the afterlife, which was less developed than later Jewish and Christian concepts of heaven and hell.

and be deprived of the remainder of my years.”
Hezekiah laments the loss of potential future years, highlighting the human desire for longevity and fulfillment of life. This sentiment is echoed in other biblical passages where individuals express sorrow over untimely death (e.g., Job 14:1-2). Theologically, this phrase can be seen as a reflection on the sovereignty of God over life and death, and the human struggle to understand divine will.

I said, “I will never again see the LORD, even the LORD, in the land of the living;
This phrase reflects King Hezekiah's lament during his illness, as recorded in Isaiah 38. Hezekiah, a king of Judah, was facing death and expressed his sorrow at the thought of no longer being able to worship God in the temple, which was central to Jewish life and worship. The "land of the living" refers to the earthly realm, contrasting with Sheol, the abode of the dead. This highlights the ancient Near Eastern understanding of life and death, where the living had the privilege of experiencing God's presence and blessings. The repetition of "the LORD" emphasizes the personal relationship Hezekiah had with God, a theme consistent throughout the Old Testament, where God is seen as intimately involved in the lives of His people.

I will no longer look on mankind with those who dwell in this world.
Hezekiah mourns the loss of fellowship with other people, indicating the communal aspect of life in ancient Israel. The phrase underscores the importance of community and relationships, which were integral to Jewish society. The mention of "those who dwell in this world" contrasts the living with the dead, emphasizing the separation death brings. This reflects the biblical view of life as a gift from God, meant to be lived in community and in service to Him. The lament also echoes the sentiments found in other biblical passages, such as Psalm 27:13, where the psalmist expresses a desire to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living, highlighting a common biblical theme of longing for God's presence and the fellowship of His people.

My dwelling has been picked up and removed from me like a shepherd’s tent.
This phrase reflects the transient nature of life, akin to a shepherd's tent that is easily set up and taken down. In the ancient Near East, shepherds were nomadic, moving their tents frequently to find pasture for their flocks. This imagery emphasizes the temporary and fragile state of human existence. The context here is King Hezekiah's illness and his reflection on the brevity of life. The tent metaphor is also used in other scriptures, such as 2 Corinthians 5:1, where Paul speaks of our earthly bodies as tents, highlighting the temporary nature of our earthly existence compared to the eternal dwelling with God.

I have rolled up my life like a weaver;
The imagery of a weaver rolling up fabric signifies the completion of a task. In ancient times, weaving was a common occupation, and the process of rolling up the finished cloth was a natural conclusion to the work. This metaphor suggests that Hezekiah sees his life as a completed work, ready to be finished. The weaver's imagery is also found in Job 7:6, where Job laments the swiftness of his days, comparing them to a weaver's shuttle. This connection underscores the theme of life's brevity and the inevitability of death.

He cuts me off from the loom;
This phrase indicates an abrupt end to life, as if the weaver's work is suddenly cut from the loom before its intended completion. In the context of Hezekiah's illness, it reflects his fear of dying prematurely. The cutting off from the loom can be seen as a divine intervention, where God determines the length of one's life. This concept is echoed in Psalm 31:15, where the psalmist acknowledges that his times are in God's hands, reinforcing the belief in God's sovereignty over life and death.

from day until night You make an end of me.
This expression conveys the rapid passage of time, from morning to evening, symbolizing the swift approach of death. In the cultural context, a day was often seen as a complete cycle of life, from birth to death. Hezekiah's lament here is a plea for God's mercy, as he feels his life is being cut short. The phrase also reflects the biblical theme of human mortality, as seen in Psalm 90:6, where life is compared to grass that flourishes in the morning and withers by evening. This serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the urgency to live righteously.

I composed myself until the morning.
This phrase reflects a period of waiting and introspection. In the context of Isaiah 38, King Hezekiah is recovering from a severe illness. The act of composing oneself suggests a deliberate effort to remain calm and hopeful despite dire circumstances. Biblically, morning often symbolizes new beginnings or divine intervention (Psalm 30:5). Hezekiah's patience and trust in God during his illness can be seen as a model of faith, reminiscent of other biblical figures who waited on the Lord, such as David (Psalm 27:14).

Like a lion He breaks all my bones;
The imagery of a lion breaking bones conveys intense suffering and the feeling of being overpowered by a force much stronger than oneself. In ancient Near Eastern culture, lions were symbols of strength and ferocity. This metaphor highlights the severity of Hezekiah's affliction, suggesting that it felt as though God Himself was the source of his suffering. This can be compared to Job's lamentations, where he also feels crushed by divine affliction (Job 10:16). The lion imagery is also used in other scriptures to describe God's judgment or the power of enemies (Hosea 5:14).

from day until night You make an end of me.
This phrase emphasizes the relentless nature of Hezekiah's suffering, suggesting that it was continuous and unyielding. The transition from day to night signifies a complete cycle, indicating that Hezekiah felt overwhelmed by his condition at all times. The use of "You" directly addresses God, acknowledging His sovereignty even in times of distress. This reflects a common biblical theme where individuals recognize God's hand in their trials, as seen in the Psalms (Psalm 88:1-18). The phrase also foreshadows the ultimate deliverance and restoration that God provides, aligning with the broader narrative of redemption found throughout scripture.

I chirp like a swallow or crane;
This phrase captures the lament of Hezekiah, the king of Judah, during his illness. The imagery of a swallow or crane suggests a sense of restlessness and anxiety. Birds like swallows and cranes are known for their constant movement and distinctive calls, symbolizing Hezekiah's distress and the urgency of his plea. In the ancient Near Eastern context, birds were often seen as messengers or omens, which may imply Hezekiah's desire for divine intervention. The use of animal imagery is common in Hebrew poetry, emphasizing the depth of human emotion.

I moan like a dove.
The dove is often associated with mourning and lamentation in biblical literature. This simile highlights Hezekiah's sorrow and vulnerability. Doves are gentle creatures, and their mournful cooing is a fitting metaphor for the king's state of despair. In the broader biblical narrative, doves also symbolize peace and the Holy Spirit, which may suggest Hezekiah's longing for comfort and divine presence. The cultural context of the time would recognize the dove's lament as a poignant expression of grief.

My eyes grow weak as I look upward.
This phrase indicates Hezekiah's physical and spiritual exhaustion. The act of looking upward signifies prayer and seeking God's help, a common posture in biblical times. The weakening of the eyes can symbolize a loss of hope or vitality, reflecting Hezekiah's dire situation. In the historical context, Hezekiah's illness was a critical moment for Judah, and his reliance on God was crucial for his recovery and the nation's future. This imagery connects to other scriptures where looking upward is associated with seeking divine intervention (e.g., Psalm 121:1-2).

O Lord, I am oppressed;
Hezekiah's cry of oppression underscores his feeling of being overwhelmed by his circumstances. The term "oppressed" conveys a sense of being burdened or afflicted, which in this context refers to his illness and the threat it posed to his life and reign. This plea for relief is consistent with the biblical theme of God as a deliverer of the oppressed, seen throughout the Psalms and the prophetic writings. It reflects the covenant relationship between God and His people, where God is expected to respond to their cries for help.

be my security.”
This final plea is a request for God's protection and assurance. The term "security" implies a refuge or safe haven, which Hezekiah seeks in the face of his mortality. In the biblical narrative, God is often portrayed as a fortress or shield for those who trust in Him (e.g., Psalm 18:2). This request for security is not just physical but also spiritual, as Hezekiah seeks assurance of God's continued presence and favor. Theologically, this can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the ultimate source of security and salvation for believers.

What can I say?
This phrase reflects a moment of introspection and humility. It suggests a recognition of human limitations in understanding God's actions. In the context of Isaiah 38, King Hezekiah has just experienced a miraculous healing and extension of life. This rhetorical question underscores the awe and reverence one should have before God's sovereign will, similar to Job's response to God's overwhelming presence (Job 42:1-6).

He has spoken to me,
This acknowledges direct communication from God, emphasizing the personal relationship between God and His chosen leaders. In the historical context, God communicated with Hezekiah through the prophet Isaiah, who delivered messages of both warning and hope. This phrase highlights the importance of prophecy in the Old Testament, where God often revealed His plans and purposes through His prophets (Amos 3:7).

and He Himself has done this.
This statement attributes the actions directly to God, affirming His active role in the events of Hezekiah's life. It reflects the belief in God's sovereignty and His ability to intervene in human affairs. The healing of Hezekiah and the sign of the sun's shadow moving backward (Isaiah 38:7-8) serve as a testament to God's power and faithfulness, reminiscent of other divine interventions such as the parting of the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21-22).

I will walk slowly all my years
This phrase suggests a commitment to live a life marked by reflection and gratitude. The idea of walking slowly can be seen as a metaphor for living with intentionality and awareness of God's presence. It echoes the biblical theme of walking with God, as seen in the lives of Enoch (Genesis 5:24) and Noah (Genesis 6:9), who are described as walking faithfully with God.

because of the anguish of my soul.
Hezekiah's experience of illness and recovery brought about deep emotional and spiritual reflection. The anguish mentioned here can be understood as a catalyst for spiritual growth and dependence on God. This mirrors the biblical principle that suffering can lead to a deeper understanding of God's grace and purpose, as seen in the life of the Apostle Paul, who found strength in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9-10).

O Lord, by such things men live
This phrase acknowledges God's sovereignty and the sustaining power of His word and promises. In the context of Isaiah 38, King Hezekiah is reflecting on his recovery from a terminal illness. The "such things" likely refer to God's interventions and decrees, which are essential for life. Biblically, this aligns with Deuteronomy 8:3, where it is stated that man does not live by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. This highlights the belief that spiritual sustenance is as crucial as physical sustenance.

and in all of them my spirit finds life
Hezekiah's spirit finds life in God's promises and actions. This reflects a deep spiritual truth that true life and vitality come from a relationship with God. In John 6:63, Jesus says, "The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life." This connection emphasizes that spiritual renewal and life are found in God's word and presence, a theme consistent throughout Scripture.

You have restored me to health
This phrase is a direct acknowledgment of God's healing power. Hezekiah's illness and subsequent recovery are recorded in 2 Kings 20:1-11, where God extends his life by fifteen years. This miraculous healing serves as a testament to God's ability to intervene in human affairs and restore health. It also prefigures the healing ministry of Jesus Christ, who healed many as a sign of God's kingdom.

and have let me live
The extension of Hezekiah's life is a testament to God's mercy and grace. In the historical context, Hezekiah's recovery was significant not only for him personally but also for the nation of Judah, as his leadership was crucial during a time of Assyrian threat. This phrase underscores the biblical theme that life itself is a gift from God, as seen in Psalm 139:16, where it is stated that all the days ordained for us were written in God's book before one of them came to be.

Surely for my own welfare I had such great anguish;
This phrase reflects the personal realization of King Hezekiah, who acknowledges that his suffering was ultimately for his benefit. In the biblical context, Hezekiah was gravely ill and faced death, as recorded in Isaiah 38. His anguish led him to seek God earnestly, which is a recurring theme in Scripture where trials lead to spiritual growth (James 1:2-4). The idea that suffering can lead to a greater good is also seen in the life of Joseph (Genesis 50:20) and in the New Testament with the Apostle Paul (2 Corinthians 12:7-10).

but Your love has delivered me from the pit of oblivion,
Hezekiah attributes his deliverance to God's love, emphasizing the divine intervention that saved him from death. The "pit of oblivion" metaphorically represents Sheol, the realm of the dead in ancient Hebrew thought. This deliverance is a testament to God's mercy and faithfulness, themes prevalent throughout the Psalms (Psalm 103:4). The deliverance from death can also be seen as a type of Christ's resurrection, where Jesus was delivered from death, offering eternal life to believers (1 Corinthians 15:20-22).

for You have cast all my sins behind Your back.
This phrase highlights the forgiveness of sins, a central tenet of the biblical narrative. In ancient Near Eastern culture, casting something behind one's back signifies complete removal and disregard. This imagery is consistent with other biblical passages that speak of God's forgiveness, such as Psalm 103:12, where sins are removed "as far as the east is from the west." The ultimate fulfillment of this forgiveness is found in Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice on the cross provides the means for sins to be forgiven and forgotten (Hebrews 10:17).

For Sheol cannot thank You;
In the Hebrew Bible, "Sheol" refers to the realm of the dead, a shadowy place where the deceased reside. It is often depicted as a place of silence and inactivity, contrasting with the vibrant life of the living who can actively worship and thank God. The concept of Sheol reflects the ancient Near Eastern understanding of the afterlife, which was less developed than later Jewish and Christian eschatology. The inability to thank God in Sheol underscores the importance of praising God while alive, as seen in Psalm 6:5, which similarly states that in death there is no remembrance of God.

Death cannot praise You.
Death is personified here, emphasizing its power to silence the living. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, praising God was a central aspect of life, and death was seen as an interruption to this vital activity. This phrase highlights the finality and separation that death brings, a theme echoed in Psalm 115:17, which states that the dead do not praise the Lord. The emphasis on praising God during one's lifetime is a call to live a life of worship and gratitude.

Those who descend to the Pit cannot hope for Your faithfulness.
"The Pit" is another term for the grave or Sheol, reinforcing the idea of a place where the dead reside. In the biblical context, God's faithfulness is often associated with His covenant promises and acts of deliverance. The inability to hope for God's faithfulness in the Pit suggests a separation from the living relationship with God that is possible on earth. This reflects the belief that God's covenantal faithfulness is experienced in the land of the living, as seen in Psalm 27:13. The phrase serves as a reminder of the urgency to trust and rely on God's faithfulness during one's lifetime.

The living, only the living, can thank You
This phrase emphasizes the importance of life in offering praise to God. In the context of Isaiah 38, King Hezekiah has been granted an extension of life after a severe illness, highlighting the value of life as an opportunity to worship and thank God. Biblically, life is seen as a gift from God, and the living are called to use their time to glorify Him (Psalm 115:17-18). The emphasis on "only the living" underscores the urgency and privilege of praising God while one has the chance, as the dead cannot participate in this act of worship.

as I do today
Hezekiah's personal gratitude is expressed here, reflecting his immediate response to God's deliverance. This moment of thanksgiving is not just a future promise but a present reality. It serves as a model for believers to express gratitude in the present moment, recognizing God's interventions in their lives. The phrase "as I do today" also connects to the biblical theme of living in the present and acknowledging God's work daily (Psalm 118:24).

fathers will tell their children about Your faithfulness
This phrase highlights the biblical principle of passing down faith through generations. In Deuteronomy 6:6-7, parents are instructed to teach their children about God's commandments and faithfulness. The cultural context of ancient Israel placed a strong emphasis on oral tradition and storytelling as a means of preserving history and faith. This transmission of faith ensures that God's acts are remembered and celebrated by future generations, fostering a continuous legacy of faithfulness. The reference to "fathers" also points to the patriarchal structure of ancient society, where the head of the family played a crucial role in spiritual instruction.

The LORD will save me;
This phrase reflects a deep trust in God's deliverance, a recurring theme throughout the book of Isaiah. Historically, this is part of King Hezekiah's song of thanksgiving after his recovery from illness. The assurance of salvation is central to the message of Isaiah, who prophesied during a time of political turmoil and threat from Assyria. Theologically, it underscores the belief in God's sovereignty and faithfulness to His covenant people. This trust in divine salvation is echoed in other scriptures, such as Psalm 18:2 and Isaiah 12:2, where God is depicted as a savior and protector.

we will play songs on stringed instruments
Music played a significant role in Hebrew worship and culture, often used to express joy, gratitude, and reverence. Stringed instruments, like the harp and lyre, were common in ancient Israel and were integral to temple worship. This phrase suggests a communal act of worship, indicating that Hezekiah's personal deliverance leads to corporate praise. The use of music in worship is also seen in the Psalms, such as Psalm 33:2-3, where believers are encouraged to praise God with instruments.

all the days of our lives
This expression of lifelong devotion and worship highlights the enduring nature of gratitude and commitment to God. It suggests that the experience of God's salvation is not a one-time event but a continual source of praise and dedication. This idea is consistent with the biblical call to live a life of worship and obedience, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:5, which commands love for God with all one's heart, soul, and strength.

in the house of the LORD.
The "house of the LORD" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, the central place of worship for the Israelites. It was the dwelling place of God's presence among His people, where sacrifices and offerings were made. This phrase emphasizes the importance of communal worship and the temple's role in the spiritual life of Israel. The temple is also a type of Christ, who in the New Testament is described as the true temple (John 2:19-21), where believers find access to God. The reference to the temple underscores the continuity of worship from the Old Covenant to the New Covenant, where the church becomes the spiritual house of God (1 Peter 2:5).

Now Isaiah had said
Isaiah, a major prophet in the Hebrew Bible, often served as a mouthpiece for God, delivering messages to the kings of Judah. His role was not only to foretell future events but also to provide guidance and counsel. This phrase indicates that Isaiah is speaking with authority, likely under divine inspiration, as he often did throughout his ministry.

Prepare a lump of pressed figs
Figs were a common fruit in ancient Israel, known for their medicinal properties. The use of figs here reflects the practical application of natural remedies in biblical times. This instruction aligns with the cultural practices of using available resources for healing purposes. The preparation of figs as a poultice suggests a blend of faith and practical action, where divine instruction meets human effort.

and apply it to the boil
The boil mentioned here could refer to a serious skin infection or abscess, which was a common ailment in ancient times. The application of the fig poultice is a specific remedy, indicating a direct intervention for a physical ailment. This reflects the understanding of disease and treatment in the ancient Near East, where physical and spiritual health were often interconnected.

and he will recover
This promise of recovery is significant, as it demonstrates the power of God to heal through both natural and supernatural means. It also underscores the role of faith and obedience in the healing process. The assurance of recovery can be seen as a testament to God's mercy and faithfulness, as well as a fulfillment of His promises. This phrase connects to other biblical instances where faith and obedience lead to healing, such as in the New Testament accounts of Jesus healing the sick.

And Hezekiah had asked
Hezekiah, the king of Judah, is known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to restore proper worship in Jerusalem. His inquiry reflects a common biblical theme where individuals seek confirmation or assurance from God. This mirrors Gideon's request for a sign in Judges 6:36-40, demonstrating a human desire for tangible evidence of divine promises.

“What will be the sign
In biblical times, signs were often requested as confirmation of God's promises or actions. Signs served as divine assurances, as seen with Moses and the burning bush (Exodus 3) or the rainbow after the flood (Genesis 9:12-17). Hezekiah's request for a sign is consistent with this tradition, seeking assurance of God's promise of healing and extended life.

that I will go up
The phrase "go up" is significant in biblical language, often indicating a journey to a place of worship or significance. In this context, it implies a return to normalcy and religious duty, as Hezekiah anticipates being well enough to visit the temple. This reflects the importance of the temple in Jewish worship and the king's dedication to his faith.

to the house of the LORD?”
The "house of the LORD" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, the central place of worship for the Israelites. It symbolizes God's presence among His people and is a focal point for religious life. Hezekiah's desire to return to the temple underscores his commitment to worship and the centrality of the temple in Jewish religious practice. This also foreshadows the ultimate fulfillment of God's presence with His people through Jesus Christ, who referred to His body as the temple (John 2:19-21).