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Book of 2 Kings - Chapter 20 - Verse 10

20:10
And Hezekiah answered, It is a light thing for the shadow to go down ten degrees: nay, but let the shadow return backward ten degrees.

Meaning

Hezekiah's response to the miraculous sign from God, where the shadow moved ten degrees backward on the sundial, reveals a profound understanding of the power and authority of the Almighty. In ancient times, a sundial was a crucial instrument for measuring time and forecasting events. Hezekiah, a king of Judah, acknowledged that for the shadow to go down ten degrees would be a simple task for God. However, for the shadow to return backward ten degrees defied the laws of nature and demonstrated God's ability to control time and space. This event not only showcased God's unlimited power but also served as a sign of His promise to Hezekiah of healing and extending his life. The verse signifies the sovereignty of God over all creation and serves as a reminder of His ability to intervene in human affairs beyond human comprehension. Hezekiah's response reflects his faith and trust in God's supernatural intervention, emphasizing the belief that nothing is impossible for God.

Theological Overview

Hezekiah's request for the shadow to move backward by ten degrees in 2 Kings 20:10 may seem like a simple miracle of altering nature, but it carries deeper theological implications. This extraordinary event demonstrates God's power over the created order, showing that He is sovereign and can intervene in the physical world. It also highlights Hezekiah's faith and boldness in approaching God with his request, trusting in God's ability to answer and perform miracles. The word "degrees" in this verse can also be translated as steps or stairs, suggesting a deliberate movement or progression in the reversal of the sun's shadow. This word study sheds light on the precise nature of the miracle, emphasizing the specific and intentional nature of God's intervention in response to Hezekiah's prayer. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of God's limitless power and His willingness to act on behalf of His faithful servants, illustrating the importance of faith and prayer in experiencing God's supernatural interventions.

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