Definition: Go, and say to Hezekiah, Thus saith the LORD, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will add unto thy days fifteen years.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Isaiah 38:5. It's a really significant and dramatic verse in the Bible, and it speaks about God’s care for a specific situation. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Story: Hezekiah is in Trouble: The verse immediately tells us that Hezekiah, the King of Judah, is experiencing a serious crisis. He's facing a terrible threat – a group of prophets who are predicting doom for him and his kingdom. God’s Hearing: God is directly intervening to listen to Hezekiah’s prayers. He’s not just passively hearing; he’s actively listening . Seeing the Tears: Crucially, the verse also says that God sees Hezekiah's tears – this signifies deep sadness, fear, and perhaps even hopelessness. It shows that He understands his suffering. Adding Years to His Life: This is the most important part! God says he will add fifteen years to Hezekiah’s life. This isn't just about a long period; it’s an extension of his time, a blessing and protection from the impending doom. Putting It All Together – A Simple Explanation: God is deeply concerned about Hezekiah. He’s listening to his prayers, understanding his pain, and recognizing his suffering. Instead of simply condemning him, God offers a significant blessing: a longer life for him. Symbolic Meaning (Some Interpretations): The Prophets: The prophets are like shadows that threaten the King. God is saying Hezekiah's prayers are recognized and he doesn’t have to face the full darkness alone. Divine Protection: This verse highlights God’s protective nature – a guarantee of safety and prosperity for those He cherishes. In essence, this passage emphasizes God’s love, compassion, and his desire to protect His people from harm. It's a powerful reminder that God is actively involved in our lives and offers comfort and hope even amidst difficult times. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Compare it to other verses about God’s care for people?