Definition: And they said unto him, Thus saith Hezekiah, This day [is] a day of trouble, and of rebuke, and of blasphemy: for the children are come to the birth, and [there is] not strength to bring forth.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 37:3. It's a really important passage in the Bible that speaks about a difficult situation involving Israel and their king. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: Israel is in exile: The verse comes after the Israelites have been exiled to Babylon, a place of punishment and hardship for their sins. Hezekiah is speaking: Hezekiah is a high priest and advisor to King David. He’s essentially saying that this moment – this specific day – is a time of great trouble and wrongdoing. “This day of trouble, of rebuke, and blasphemy…” This is the core message: It's not just any bad day; it’s a day filled with negative consequences. “…the children are come to the birth, and there is not strength to bring forth.” This is where it gets really significant. The phrase "the children are come to the birth" refers to Jesus Christ, who was born in Bethlehem. The key part is “there is not strength to bring forth.” This means that the people of Israel – their faith and hope – are unable to provide a strong foundation or support for the new life of Jesus. What it Means – A Deeper Look: Disruption & Trouble: The verse highlights a significant disruption in the Israelites’ lives. Their exile is a major problem, and the birth of Jesus represents a chance for hope and renewal, but this moment is causing trouble. Blasphemy/Sin: “Blasphemy” suggests that there's something deeply wrong with the situation – perhaps a violation of God’s laws or a lack of faith. It points to a time when the Israelites were not fully living in accordance with God’s will. Hope Diminished: The phrase “there is not strength to bring forth” emphasizes that the hope for a future filled with God's blessings and renewal is severely diminished. Context & Significance: This passage is part of a larger story about the early years of Israel’s history. It speaks to the challenges facing the nation and serves as a foreshadowing of events to come, particularly regarding the coming of Jesus. It's a moment of profound sadness and uncertainty for those involved. In short, this verse describes a time when the Israelites are struggling under difficult circumstances – potentially due to their own failings – and it highlights the potential loss of hope and faith. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse in more detail? Connect this verse to other Bible stories or themes? Discuss what this passage might be saying about the future (like the coming of Jesus)?

Definition: And this [shall be] a sign unto thee, Ye shall eat [this] year such as groweth of itself; and the second year that which springeth of the same: and in the third year sow ye, and reap, and plant vineyards, and eat the fruit thereof.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 37:30. It’s a really important passage about God’s plan for His people during a time of crisis. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is essentially saying that God is sending His grace and blessings to Israel, specifically to the Jewish people, when they are facing a difficult situation. It’s a promise of abundance and prosperity for them. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And this [shall be] a sign unto thee…” – This means God is giving us a clear message, a signal to understand what’s happening. It’s like a nudge from the divine. “…Ye shall eat [this] year such as groweth of itself; and the second year that which springeth of the same:” - This speaks about a growing harvest. “Such as groweth of itself” refers to crops or plants that are naturally growing – things like wheat, barley, or other grains. It's like God is actively working to provide for us. The “second year that which springeth of the same” means the next year will be a good one for them, with plenty of harvest. “And in the third year sow ye, and reap, and plant vineyards, and eat the fruit thereof.” – This is the promise of the blessing. It’s saying that God promises to provide for Israel with abundant harvests in the future. When you sow (plant) seeds, you expect a harvest. And when you “reap” (harvest) those crops, it means you will enjoy the fruits of your labor – abundance and prosperity. This includes vineyards - places where grapes grow, so it’s a promise of good yield for their land. Overall Meaning & Context: Isaiah 37:30 is about God's plan to bring His people back to Judah after they had exiled. The Jewish people were living in exile, and God was sending a message to them – that He would eventually return them home with blessings. This verse highlights God’s promises of future abundance for Israel, and it emphasizes the hope for their restoration and prosperity. Think of it like this: Imagine someone is planting seeds in a field. This verse is saying, “You will receive a good harvest (fruit) in the next year because you are working hard (sowing) – God is giving you a bountiful yield!” Do you want me to: Explain any of these points further? Give an example of how this verse might be interpreted in a particular context? Provide a related scripture or story?

Definition: And the remnant that is escaped of the house of Judah shall again take root downward, and bear fruit upward:

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Isaiah 37:31. It’s a really important and somewhat dramatic passage about the future of Israel. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that even though Israel has been facing hardship and separation (we know this because of the prophecy of the Jewish exile), they will eventually find a way to thrive again, grow strong, and produce good things – like fruit – in their land. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “The remnant that is escaped…” : This refers to the people of Judah, which was a nation in ancient Israel. "Remnant" means a small group or population that survives something difficult. “…of the house of Judah” : This specifically names the tribe of Benjamin, who were part of the original Israelites and had a complicated history with Judah. “shall again take root downward…” : This is where it gets interesting. “Rooting down” means growing downwards, deepening into the earth. It's like a plant pushing its roots deep into the soil. "...and bear fruit upward:" : This is the key part. "Bearing fruit" symbolizes producing good things – prosperity, peace, and ultimately, a successful future for Israel. “Upward” suggests growing towards a better state of being – becoming more blessed and fulfilling. What does this all mean in a big picture? The Exile: The verse is about the events that led to the exile of the Jewish people from their homeland. It's a time of separation and hardship. Hope for the Future: It’s a message of hope – even though things are tough now, there’s an expectation that God’s people will eventually find their way back home and flourish again. Resilience: It speaks to the idea that despite challenges, people can endure and ultimately achieve something good. In essence, Isaiah 37:31 is a hopeful promise that even after a difficult period, God's people will find a path towards restoration and prosperity. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Isaiah? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail (like its timing)?

Definition: For out of Jerusalem shall go forth a remnant, and they that escape out of mount Zion: the zeal of the LORD of hosts shall do this.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 37:32. It's a really important passage about hope and salvation in a difficult time. Here’s a simple explanation: What it means on the surface: “For out of Jerusalem shall go forth a remnant…” – This suggests that there will be a group of people leaving Jerusalem, likely because of a problem within that city. “…and they that escape out of mount Zion:” - “Mount Zion” is a place of great importance in the Bible, often associated with God’s presence and holiness. "Escape out of" means they are fleeing for their lives. “The zeal of the LORD of hosts shall do this.” – This is the key part! It's saying that God’s power and righteous anger will be used to rescue those who are escaping. “Zeal” means passionate enthusiasm or determination. In simpler terms, it means: “God intends to save a group of people from a difficult situation in Jerusalem. He will use his powerful force and judgment to protect them and help them find safety.” What’s the big picture? This verse is part of a larger story about God's plan for Israel during a time of conflict with Babylon (a powerful empire). The Israelites were living under Babylonian rule, and there was growing tension. This verse speaks to their hope that God would ultimately deliver them from this oppression and restore them to their homeland. It’s a message of deliverance and faith in God’s ultimate plan. Why is it important? This passage is often interpreted as a prophecy about the future restoration of Israel, with God ultimately restoring his people to their rightful place. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Isaiah? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Answer any specific questions you have about it?

Definition: Therefore thus saith the LORD concerning the king of Assyria, He shall not come into this city, nor shoot an arrow there, nor come before it with shields, nor cast a bank against it.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 37:33. It's a really important and dramatic passage in the Bible that speaks about a future conflict. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is warning Assyria – a powerful empire located in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) – not to invade or attack Jerusalem. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Therefore thus saith the LORD” : This is a direct quote from the prophet Isaiah. He's speaking to God, and we understand he’s conveying something important. “Concerning the king of Assyria” : This refers to King Ashur-Abba, the ruler of the powerful Assyrian Empire who was conquering Judah at that time. It's a specific person being targeted. “He shall not come into this city” : This means Assyria won’t invade Jerusalem. It’s a clear prohibition against an attack on the city. “Nor shoot an arrow there” : This is a powerful image – imagine an arrow flying towards Jerusalem! It's a symbol of imminent attack. “Nor come before it with shields” : This is another strong warning. Assyria isn’t just going to invade; they’re coming to attack, likely with their military might. “Nor cast a bank against it” : This is the most terrifying part. It suggests Assyria will not be able to easily challenge or defeat Jerusalem. They won’t be able to set up defenses or prepare for battle. What does this verse mean in the bigger picture? It's a message of protection and divine judgment. The Bible describes Assyrian military campaigns as threatening, and Isaiah 37:33 is a warning that their aggressive plans will be thwarted. It’s a sign that God is watching over his people and protecting them from harm. Why is this important? This verse is often interpreted as a foreshadowing of the arrival of the Roman army under Emperor Nero, who eventually conquered Judea and destroyed Jerusalem. It's a key moment in Jewish history where God’s judgment was imminent. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or event in the Bible?

Definition: By the way that he came, by the same shall he return, and shall not come into this city, saith the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful and often-quoted verse from Isaiah 37:34. It’s a really important message about God’s plan and timing. Here's a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse essentially says that God is returning to Israel (specifically Judah) after a period of trouble and uncertainty. He’s coming back by the same way he came before, and he’s not going to stay in this city – meaning this particular place – for long. Let's unpack it further: “By the way that he came…” : This is a poetic way of saying "because he was traveling." It emphasizes that God’s return isn't random; it's connected to his past journeys. “…by the same shall he return…” : This is the core message. God will return. He’s going to fulfill his promises and bring about a new era for Israel. “and shall not come into this city, saith the LORD.” : This part is crucial. The Lord (God) isn't just coming anywhere ; he’s specifically choosing to return to Jerusalem. The word "city" can be interpreted in several ways – it could mean the entire nation of Israel, or even a specific location like Jerusalem itself. It speaks to a significant turning point and a restoration of God’s presence. What does this mean for us? Hope for the Future: This verse offers hope for the future of Israel. God is returning to restore his people and bring about a time of peace and prosperity. God's Sovereignty: It highlights God’s absolute control over history and events. He has a plan, and he’s working according to that plan, even when things seem difficult. A Time of Transition: It suggests a period of transition and upheaval – the Israelites are experiencing trouble with their king and the surrounding nations. God is returning to restore order and righteousness. In short, this verse speaks of God’s return after a long journey, promising renewal and restoration for his people. Do you want me to: Explain another part of Isaiah 37? Discuss the context of this verse in more detail (like what was happening in Israel at that time)?

Definition: For I will defend this city to save it for mine own sake, and for my servant David’s sake.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from Isaiah 37:35. It's a really important passage about God’s protection and care. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is sending His presence and protecting a specific city – Jerusalem – and especially David, his son, to save it for his own reasons. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “For I will defend this city…” - This means God is actively involved in protecting something. He’s not just passively watching; he’s taking action. “…to save it for mine own sake” – This is the core of the verse. It's a declaration that God wants to protect this city, and for His own reasons. This shows that God has a purpose behind protecting it. “And for my servant David’s sake.” - This is where it gets really significant. David was a very important king in the Old Testament. This verse links the protection of Jerusalem to David's life and legacy. It suggests that God wants to bless and safeguard David’s descendants, ensuring his reign continues. What does this tell us about God? He loves his people: The phrase "for my servant David’s sake" shows a deep affection for the people of Israel. He is involved in history: It points to God's active role in shaping events and preserving important figures. He has a plan: The verse implies that God has a bigger picture – he wants to protect this city and its future, perhaps leading to a greater kingdom or a lasting legacy. In short, it’s a powerful message of protection, hope, and divine purpose. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Isaiah? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail? Explore what this verse might mean for modern-day believers?

Definition: Then the angel of the LORD went forth, and smote in the camp of the Assyrians a hundred and fourscore and five thousand: and when they arose early in the morning, behold, they [were] all dead corpses.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 37:36. It’s a really important and dramatic passage about a tense situation. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Israel is in Exile: The verse tells us that the people of Israel were living in exile, meaning they were separated from their homeland in Jerusalem. This was happening during the reign of King Sennacherib of Assyria, a powerful empire in the Middle East. Assyrian Attack: The Assyrians, led by King Sennacherib, launched a huge military campaign against Judah and Israel. They conquered many cities, including Jerusalem. A Plague Strikes: During the chaos of the war, a devastating plague – a sickness that killed people quickly – spread throughout the Israelites’ camp. It wasn't just a normal illness; it was incredibly deadly. The Angel of the Lord Goes to Deal with It: The angel of the LORD (a very important figure in Jewish tradition) went to investigate what was happening and took action to stop the plague. What Happened Next – The Crucial Part: The Death: The verse says that the Assyrian soldiers, noticing the massive loss of life, early in the morning (very early), found all the Israelites dead. They were completely lifeless – like corpses. So, What Does It Mean? This passage is a powerful message about God's judgment and protection. It suggests: God’s Power: God is actively intervening to protect his people from harm. He doesn't just stand by and watch things happen. Divine Justice: The Assyrians were causing immense suffering, and God is punishing them with a terrible consequence – the death of all the Israelites. A Time of Testing: It’s a moment of intense pressure for Israel, highlighting that they are facing a significant test of faith and trust in their relationship with God. In short, it's a dramatic description of a devastating plague that killed everyone in the Israelite camp, demonstrating God’s power to protect his people. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or event in biblical history?

Definition: So Sennacherib king of Assyria departed, and went and returned, and dwelt at Nineveh.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 37:37 together. It’s a really important part of the Bible and has some pretty big implications. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it's about peace being restored after a conflict. “So Sennacherib king of Assyria departed…” – This tells us that a powerful king named Sennacherib from Assyria (a region in the Middle East) left. He was a ruler who had been in Judah (the area we live in today), and he’d traveled to Jerusalem. “…and went and returned…” - He travelled away, perhaps to seek something or someone. “And dwelt at Nineveh.” – This is the key part! He returned to Nineveh, a city located in modern-day Iraq. It's a very important place because it’s where the Jewish people believed that God had sent his messengers to warn them about Sennacherib’s power. So, what does this tell us? This verse is often interpreted as a sign of God’s peace and restoration after a time of conflict. It suggests: God is working for good: It shows that God is not just concerned with the immediate outcome of a battle, but also wants to bring about a lasting peace and restoration. Sennacherib's actions were causing trouble: The verse implies that Sennacherib’s presence in Jerusalem was disruptive and potentially dangerous to the Jewish people. Important Note: The Bible doesn't explicitly say why God sent his messengers to Nineveh. It's a mysterious event, but it's generally understood as a sign of God’s favor and a promise of peace. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you more context about the time period this verse came from? Talk about what the verse might symbolize in a broader sense?

Definition: And it came to pass, as he was worshipping in the house of Nisroch his god, that Adrammelech and Sharezer his sons smote him with the sword; and they escaped into the land of Armenia: and Esarhaddon his son reigned in his stead.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse. It’s a bit complex at first, but we can understand it as a story about a king being attacked and fleeing to safety. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: Basically, this verse tells us that a Jewish king named Nebuchadnezzar was being brutally attacked by enemies. Here’s a more detailed breakdown: “Isaiah 37:38” : This is a passage from the Old Testament book of Isaiah. It's a prophecy (a prediction about the future). “And it came to pass, as he was worshipping in the house of Nisroch his god…” - This describes what happened before the attack. Nebuchadnezzar, a powerful king from Babylon, was visiting a temple dedicated to a local deity called "Nisroch." He was praying and celebrating at this temple. “…that Adrammelech and Sharezer his sons smote him with the sword…” - This is the key part. Adrammelech and Sharezer were Nebuchadnezzar’s sons, and they attacked him with a sword. They were incredibly angry and determined to harm him. “…and escaped into the land of Armenia.” - They managed to flee into Armenia (a region in modern-day Turkey), a place that was part of the Persian Empire at the time. “And Esarhaddon his son reigned in his stead.” - Esarhaddon, Nebuchadnezzar’s son, took over as king in Babylon. So, what's the big takeaway? This verse describes a moment of conflict and exile for a powerful king. It highlights a situation where a foreign power (the Persian Empire) was actively challenging his rule and forcing him to flee his kingdom. Important Note: This is a prophecy – it’s meant to be interpreted in the context of future events. It's a story about political upheaval and the potential for conflict between empires. --- Do you want me to explain any specific aspect of this verse further? For example, would you like me to: Explain the significance of Nisroch as a deity? Discuss the historical context of the time?