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Book of 2 Kings - Chapter 19 - Verse 16

19:16
LORD, bow down thine ear, and hear: open, LORD, thine eyes, and see: and hear the words of Sennacherib, which hath sent him to reproach the living God.

Meaning

In this verse, the speaker is calling on the Lord to bend down and listen, to open His eyes and see the situation that is unfolding. The words of Sennacherib, who is known to be a powerful and arrogant ruler, are being brought before the living God for judgment. Sennacherib has sent a messenger to taunt and threaten the people of God, challenging their faith and their trust in the Almighty. The speaker is asking God to pay attention to these words of mockery and disrespect, to witness the blasphemy being uttered against Him. This verse serves as a plea for divine intervention, for God to intercede on behalf of His people and demonstrate His power and majesty in the face of their enemies. It is a reminder that God is omniscient and omnipotent, able to hear and see all things, and will ultimately bring justice to those who dare to oppose Him.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Isaiah, King Hezekiah prays to the Lord for deliverance from the threat of the Assyrian king Sennacherib. The use of language in this verse is significant from a theological perspective as it highlights the act of seeking God's attention and intervention in a time of need. The plea for God to "bow down thine ear, and hear" emphasizes the humbleness and urgency of the prayer, with the speaker acknowledging the power and sovereignty of God. The repetition of the word "LORD" also serves to emphasize the direct address to God and the personal nature of the request. Additionally, the mention of "Sennacherib" as the source of reproach against the living God serves to contrast the power and authority of the Assyrian king with the ultimate authority of God. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of turning to God in times of trouble and seeking His help and protection.

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