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

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible verse together. It’s a really powerful and somewhat unsettling passage from the Book of 2 Kings. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Hezekiah is speaking: This verse comes from King Hezekiah of Judah during a time of immense crisis – a period where Israel was facing severe famine, war, and unrest. “Thus saith Hezekiah…” : This is Hezekiah’s voice, expressing his serious concern. "This day is a day of trouble…" : Hezekiah is saying that this particular moment is filled with bad things – it's not just any bad time; it’s a time of significant hardship and problems. “…and of rebuke, and blasphemy: for the children are come to the birth, and there is not strength to bring forth.” : This is the core of the verse. Hezekiah is saying that something terrible is happening – something that's causing pain and distress. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “The children are come to the birth…” : This is a really dramatic phrase. It means that a new generation of people (likely children) are arriving, but they aren't strong enough to help or thrive. Think of it like a seed sprouting – it needs conditions to grow into a plant. “…and there is not strength to bring forth.” : This is the crucial part. It means that there’s no ability to solve the problems . The people are facing overwhelming challenges, and they lack the resources or abilities to overcome them. What does this all mean in a broader sense? A Time of Crisis: This verse often points to times of great difficulty for a nation or community – wars, famine, oppression, or spiritual struggles. Loss of Hope: It suggests a loss of hope and the feeling that things are slipping away. Divine Judgment: Some interpretations see this as a sign that God is watching over his people and is intervening to correct their mistakes or bring about a change. It’s not necessarily a judgment against them, but rather a reminder of the importance of seeking His guidance and obedience. Important Context (briefly): This verse appears in the Book of 2 Kings, which chronicles the downfall of King Hezekiah. It's part of a larger story about Israel’s wandering and their growing dependence on God. It’s a sobering reminder that even when things look bleak, there is still hope for a future change. Resources if you want to learn more: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/2Kings/Verse/2%3A3](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/2Kings/Verse/2%3A3) Wikipedia - 2 Kings 19:3: [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2_Kings_19%3A3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2_Kings_19%3A3) --- Do you want me to explain any of these points in more detail, perhaps focusing on a particular aspect like the symbolism or its connection to a larger story?

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

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Kings 19:30. It’s a pretty dramatic and hopeful message about the future! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse speaks about a group of people who are still facing hardship and struggle, but they have a chance to rebuild and grow again. It's saying that even though they’ve experienced terrible times – likely involving great loss and despair – they can recover and become stronger. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And the remnant that is escaped of the house of Judah…” This refers to the people of Judah, a group in ancient Israel who were heavily burdened with sin and rebellion. "Remnant" means a small group left behind after a larger population has been lost or destroyed. “…shall yet again take root downward…” “Take root” means to grow firmly and establish themselves. “Downward” refers to moving downward – meaning they’ll be rebuilding, returning to a place of stability and safety. "...and bear fruit upward.” This is the key part! "Bear fruit" represents prosperity, success, and ultimately, God's blessing. “Upward” signifies growing stronger, more secure, and flourishing again. So, what does it mean in a nutshell? It’s saying that even though Judah has been devastated by its past mistakes, they have the potential to recover and become a thriving community once again. They'll be able to rebuild their lives, restore their faith, and eventually experience God's favor. Context is Important: This verse comes from a time of immense crisis for Judah under King Josiah. They were experiencing devastating famine and war, and it paints a picture of deep despair. But the verse offers hope because it emphasizes the possibility of recovery. --- Would you like me to: Explain another part of this passage? Give you a different perspective on the meaning? Discuss its significance in a broader context (like prophecies)?

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 passage from 2 Kings 19:31. It's a pretty dramatic and hopeful verse about the future of Israel. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse speaks about a resurgence or a recovery for the Jewish people, specifically focusing on Jerusalem and the hope of God’s people escaping a terrible situation. It suggests that God is planning something incredibly important to save his people. Let's unpack it word by word: “For out of Jerusalem shall go forth a remnant…” – This means there will be a group of survivors, a small group who are spared from the worst of the disaster. “Jerusalem” refers to the capital city of Israel, and "remnant" means those who remain after something is lost or destroyed. “…and they that escape out of mount Zion:” – “Mount Zion” is a place of importance in Jewish tradition, often associated with God’s presence and a refuge for his people. “Escape” suggests being saved from danger. “Out of Mount Zion” means escaping from the devastation or chaos. “The zeal of the LORD [of hosts] shall do this:” – This is the most important part. "Zeal" means intense enthusiasm, passion, and a determined effort to do something good. Adding “of hosts” (meaning “of the army” or “of the powerful”) makes it even more significant. It signifies that God’s power will be actively involved in saving his people. Putting it all together – The Big Picture: This verse is a message of hope and preparation for a time of great hardship. God is preparing to save his people from destruction, specifically through the unwavering efforts of those who are filled with zeal (a passionate desire for good). It’s like saying: "Even though there's going to be trouble, God has a plan to protect us." What does it mean in practical terms? It speaks about a time of crisis: The verse acknowledges that something terrible is happening – the destruction of Jerusalem. It emphasizes divine intervention: God is actively working to help his people, not just passively watching events unfold. It’s a call to hope: It encourages believers to remain faithful and prepared for what may come, knowing God is on their side. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a prophecy of the destruction of Jerusalem in the future. However, it's more about the preparation – the active effort of God to protect his people. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss its significance within the Old Testament context? Compare it to other related passages?

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 shield, nor cast a bank against it.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from 2 Kings 19:32. It's a really powerful and important message about God’s protection and judgment. Here’s the explanation in simple terms: Basically, this verse says: “The LORD says that Assyria – which is a powerful, destructive nation – will not invade or attack the city you’re talking about.” Let's unpack it further: “Therefore thus saith the LORD” : This is God speaking directly to us. It’s a declaration of His will and a promise. “…concerning the king of Assyria…” : This refers to King Ashur-Kali, who was the ruler of the powerful kingdom of Assyria – a nation known for its military might and aggression. “He shall not come into this city” : This means Assyria won't set up any military forces or soldiers in that specific location. “…nor shoot an arrow there” : This is a very strong image. It’s like saying he won’t launch any arrows – any attacks – at the city. “…nor come before it with shield, nor cast a bank against it” : This is perhaps the most dramatic part. It means Assyria won't approach the city without warning or defense. It doesn’t want to attack uninvited; he wants to avoid conflict. What does this verse mean in bigger picture? God’s Protection: It emphasizes God's active protection of His people and nations. He is actively working to keep Assyria away from you. Divine Judgment: This verse often points to a larger judgment or punishment being coming upon Assyria. It's a warning about the potential for disaster. Hope & Peace: It’s also a message of hope! It suggests that God is working to secure peace and protect those under His care. In short, this verse tells us that God is watching over you and will not allow Assyria to harm your city. Do you want me to: Explain another part of the passage? Give a little more context about the history of Assyria?

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 very interesting verse from 2 Kings 19:33. It's a really potent and symbolic message about God’s plan for the future. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse speaks about God’s return and how that return will be distinct from our world. It’s saying that God is going to come back to deal with a situation – specifically, a time of great trouble or hardship – and he won't be like the troubles we see now. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “By the way that he came…” - This refers to God’s past actions and history. It’s about how He has always been involved in our lives, even when we don't notice him. It reminds us of His power and faithfulness. “…by the same shall he return…” – This is the key part. "Return" means to come back again . God is going to return to restore order and justice after a period of chaos or distress. It’s not just about returning in a simple way; it's a complete, definitive return. “…and shall not come into this city…” - This tells us where He will return. He’ll be returning to a specific place . The word "city" here is symbolic – it represents the whole world or the area where we live and struggle. So, putting it all together: God's return isn’t just about him showing up in one particular location. It's about a complete and definitive return to restore what has been broken or lost. He will be returning to deal with the problems we face. Why is this important? This verse is often interpreted as a sign that God is working for us, even when things seem bleak. It’s a promise of eventual restoration and deliverance. It's a message of hope – that even in our darkest times, God is coming to right the wrongs and bring peace. In short: This verse speaks of God’s return as a complete and definitive event, returning to restore order and justice after a period of trouble. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this passage? Give an example of how this verse might be interpreted in a specific situation (like a time of war or famine)?

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 verse from the Book of Judges in the Bible. It’s a really powerful and important message about God’s protection! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is promising to protect a specific city – specifically Jerusalem – and to save its people, including David. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “For I will defend this city…” - This means God is going to actively intervene and safeguard a place. It’s not just about letting things happen; He’s taking action to protect it. “…to save it, for mine own sake…” – This is the core of the verse. "Mine own sake" means God's own well-being and purpose are intertwined with this city’s safety. It suggests that protecting this city is His priority. “And for my servant David’s sake.” - This adds a crucial layer: God is protecting David, who was a very important king in the story of Israel. He was chosen to rule and was given a special role. So, God is safeguarding David's life, his kingdom, and his legacy. In short, it’s a promise of protection and a divine purpose – that God will actively work to preserve this city and its people. What does this verse tell us about God? It tells us: God is involved: He isn't just watching things happen; he's taking steps to influence them. God cares deeply: His protection is not just a casual concern, but a deliberate and purposeful one. God has a plan: It suggests that God has a larger purpose for this city and its people. It’s a really significant verse because it establishes a pattern of divine intervention throughout the Old Testament. It highlights God's love, faithfulness, and his commitment to preserving His chosen people and their future. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the context of this verse within the larger story of the Old Testament?

Definition: And it came to pass that night, that the angel of the LORD went out, and smote in the camp of the Assyrians an hundred 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 2 Kings 19:35. It's a really powerful and dramatic passage about judgment and devastation. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: God is Feeling Angry: The verse describes a time when God was deeply troubled and feeling very angry at the Assyrian Empire – a large, powerful nation in the East. An Angel of Deliverance: An angel (a divine messenger) appeared to God. This angel wasn’t just there to watch; he was sent to stop the destruction coming from the Assyrians. A Huge Loss for the Assyrians: The Assyrians, who were a formidable military force, were overwhelmed by this angel. They lost an incredible number of soldiers – about 100,000! This was a massive loss. The Angels Mourn and Die: As a result of this massive loss, the angels (and likely some of the Assyrian soldiers) simply… died. They were left as dead corpses. What it Means on a Deeper Level - It’s about Judgment & God's Wrath: God’s Justice: This verse is a clear example of God’s justice in action. He’s punishing those who defy him and cause suffering. The Assyrians were seen as a threat to the entire region, and God was angered by their actions. Divine Punishment: It's not just about losing soldiers; it's a symbolic representation of a larger punishment being inflicted upon those who are rebellious or unjust. The End of an Era: This event signifies the end of an era of peace and prosperity for the region. The Assyrians were powerful, but God’s judgment is inevitable. Important Note: This verse doesn't mean that everyone died. It specifically refers to the soldiers of the Assyrian army. It focuses on the result of their rebellion – a massive loss. In short, it’s a story about divine wrath and a devastating consequence of disobedience. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this passage? Give you some context about the history of the Assyrians? Or perhaps discuss what this verse might mean for our understanding of God's judgment?

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

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from the Bible: “2 Kings 19:36 So Sennacherib king of Assyria departed, and went and returned, and dwelt at Nineveh.” Here's a simple explanation in plain language: Basically, it means: Sennacherib was the king of Assyria. He ruled over a vast empire in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq). He left his kingdom. After a long time ruling, Sennacherib decided to leave his powerful territory. He returned. He came back to his own home. He stayed at Nineveh. Nineveh is a city in modern-day Turkey – it was a very important and large city that Sennacherib had conquered. What's the big deal? This story is about God’s judgment on a powerful, arrogant king. It tells us that even though Sennacherib was powerful, he disobeyed God and angered him. God ultimately decided to punish him by sending his forces back to Nineveh and forcing him to stay there. It's a reminder of God's justice and power. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about the time period? Talk about why this story is important in biblical history?

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 from the Bible together. It’s a pretty dramatic story about a king and some enemies! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: King Nisroch was being worshipped by his sons: The verse starts with King Nisroch, who lived in Assyria (a region near modern-day Turkey). His sons, Adrammelech and Sharezer, were worshipping him. They attacked him: They came to attack him – they even smote him with a sword! They escaped into Armenia: After the attack, the sons fled to a land called Armenia (a region in modern-day Turkey). Esarhaddon took over: Esarhaddon, King of Persia (another powerful empire nearby), became the new ruler and took over the throne. Putting it all together – A Simple Explanation: King Nisroch was being worshipped by his sons. They attacked him, and they managed to escape into Armenia. Esarhaddon, who was ruling in Persia, then took over as king and established a new empire. Key Takeaway: It’s a story about a king being overthrown and a new ruler taking over after a conflict. Important Note: This verse is from the Old Testament (specifically the books of Kings). It's a bit old, so it’s not as widely known or discussed today as some other biblical stories. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this story in more detail? Connect it to a broader theme (like war, power, or leadership)?