Definition: Then came Isaiah the prophet unto king Hezekiah, and said unto him, What said these men? and from whence came they unto thee? And Hezekiah said, They are come from a far country unto me, [even] from Babylon.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 39:3. It’s a really significant passage that speaks about the future of Israel and the coming of God’s message. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Isaiah is speaking to King Hezekiah in Judah (a region near Jerusalem) and asking him a question about who is bringing messages to him. It’s essentially saying, "Who are these people coming from?" Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Isaiah the prophet unto king Hezekiah…” – This tells us who is speaking: Isaiah, a prophet (someone who communicates God’s message). He’s going to a king named Hezekiah. “…and said unto him, What said these men? and from whence came they unto thee?” - This is the core of the question. Isaiah is asking Hezekiah to tell him exactly what these people are saying. “And Hezekiah said, They are come from a far country unto me, [even] from Babylon.” – This is the crucial part. Hezekiah responds with a startling and important statement: "They are coming from Babylon!" What does that mean? Babylon was a powerful city-state in Middle Eastern history, often associated with chaos and foreign influence. The Bible tells us that Babylon fell into conflict with Jerusalem during the time of King Daniel, which is a significant event in the story of Isaiah. Therefore, “they are coming from Babylon” suggests: A Foreign Threat: This phrase points to a potential enemy or force arriving from a distant and potentially disruptive location (Babylon). Divine Judgment/Message: It's often interpreted as a sign that God is sending a message – perhaps a judgment, a warning, or a new opportunity – through His prophet Isaiah. It could also signify a shift in the balance of power. In essence, this verse paints a picture of a time of significant upheaval and divine instruction. Important Note: The interpretation of this verse has been debated throughout history. It’s often seen as a foreshadowing of events leading up to the Babylonian exile (the destruction of Jerusalem). However, it's also viewed as a message of hope – that God is bringing His will to pass, even amidst challenges and conflict. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Connect this verse to another Bible passage?