Topical Bible: Presents were Given: On Recovering from Sickness

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Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical times, the act of giving presents or gifts was a common cultural practice, often symbolizing gratitude, honor, or the celebration of significant events. One such occasion where gifts were given was upon the recovery from sickness, reflecting a deep sense of thankfulness and acknowledgment of divine intervention in the healing process.

Biblical Example: Hezekiah's Recovery

A prominent biblical example of presents being given upon recovery from sickness is found in the account of King Hezekiah. In 2 Kings 20 and Isaiah 38, we read about Hezekiah's severe illness and subsequent miraculous recovery. The narrative describes how Hezekiah was on the brink of death, but after fervent prayer and the intervention of the prophet Isaiah, God granted him an additional fifteen years of life.

Following his recovery, Hezekiah received envoys from Babylon, who brought letters and a gift. The Bible states: "At that time Merodach-baladan son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah, for he had heard about Hezekiah’s illness" (2 Kings 20:12). This gesture from the Babylonian king was likely a diplomatic move, acknowledging Hezekiah's recovery and perhaps seeking to establish or strengthen political alliances.

Cultural and Theological Significance

The giving of presents in the context of recovery from illness can be understood both culturally and theologically. Culturally, it was a way to express joy and solidarity with the person who had been healed. It also served as a public acknowledgment of the individual's restored health and status within the community.

Theologically, the act of giving gifts upon recovery can be seen as an expression of gratitude to God, who is recognized as the ultimate healer. In the biblical worldview, sickness and health are often viewed in the context of divine sovereignty. Recovery from illness is seen as a sign of God's mercy and favor, prompting a response of thanksgiving and celebration.

Related Biblical Themes

The theme of gifts and offerings in response to divine intervention is prevalent throughout Scripture. In the Old Testament, offerings and sacrifices were often made in gratitude for God's deliverance or provision. In the New Testament, the concept of giving is expanded to include acts of charity and support for the community, reflecting the teachings of Jesus on love and generosity.

The practice of giving presents upon recovery from sickness aligns with the broader biblical principle of gratitude. As the Apostle Paul exhorts in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, "Give thanks in every circumstance, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus" . This attitude of thankfulness is a hallmark of the Christian life, recognizing God's hand in all aspects of existence, including health and healing.

Conclusion

While the specific practice of giving presents upon recovery from sickness is not extensively detailed in Scripture, the example of Hezekiah and the broader biblical themes of gratitude and divine healing provide insight into the significance of such acts. They serve as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging God's role in our lives and expressing thankfulness for His blessings.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Kings 20:12
At that time Berodachbaladan, the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present to Hezekiah: for he had heard that Hezekiah had been sick.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Justinian.
... communion with Mennas because he had broken his first promise and given his assent ...
These were besieged both with threats and presents; two were induced to ...
/.../allies/the formation of christendom volume vi/chapter iv justinian.htm

The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal
... of the events of this reign presents serious difficulties ... Sidon was given up to the
soldiery and then ... other princes of Phoenicia and Syria were hastily convoked ...
/.../chapter iithe power of assyria 2.htm

Field Hymns.
... on high, 'Tis His own hand presents the prize To ... and forty of the most characteristic
is here given. ... for religious meditation and literary work were fewer than ...
/.../brown/the story of the hymns and tunes/chapter xii field hymns.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... She presents a pattern to any woman, who, having neglected the ... force, that I felt
as if there were nothing else ... God had, in very wrath to my soul, given me up ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm

The Pilgrim's Progress
... 'The Lord recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of ... Now supper was
ended, and preparation was made for bed; the women were laid singly alone, and ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the pilgrims progress.htm

Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
... So after he had received and given many wounds to those that attempted to keep him ...
at which there was a pleasant voice heard from those that were within, even ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/mr bunyans last sermon .htm

Paul's Departure and Crown;
... Having thus given you the reasons why God's people should be ... Transfer them to thyself,
as it were on a ... own flesh, take the opportunity that presents itself to ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/pauls departure and crown.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... names, of which Otesias has given the Persian ... The intermediate valleys were veritable
orchards, in which the ... or the winepress.** The plateau presents a poorer ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

part i
... When you see your body wasted through sickness, do not ... in prayer (for God's gifts
are only given to those ... ruin of the unfortunate souls that were redeemed by ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part i.htm