2 Kings 18:20

Verse

You claim to have a strategy and strength for war, but these are empty words. In whom are you now trusting, that you have rebelled against me?

American Standard Version (1901)

Thou sayest (but they are but vain words), There is counsel and strength for the war. Now on whom dost thou trust, that thou hast rebelled against me?

Bible in Basic English

You say you have a design, and strength for war, but these are only words. Now to whom are you looking for support, that you have gone against my authority?

Douay-Rheims 1899

Perhaps thou hast taken counsel, to prepare thyself for battle. On whom dost thou trust, that thou darest to rebel?

Free Bible Version

You say you have a strategy and are ready for war, but these are empty words. Who are you relying on, now that you have rebelled against me?

Geneva Bible 1599

Thou thinkest, Surely I haue eloquence, but counsell and strength are for the warre. On whom then doest thou trust, that thou rebellest against me?

King James (Authorized) Version

Thou sayest, (but they are but vain words,) I have counsel and strength for the war. Now on whom dost thou trust, that thou rebellest against me?

Translation for Translators

You say that you have weapons to fight us, and some country promises to help you, and that will enable you to defeat us, but that is only talk [RHQ]. Who do you think will help you to rebel against my soldiers from Assyria?

Unlocked Literal Bible

You speak only useless words, saying there are allies and strength for war. In whom are you trusting, that you should rebel against me?

Noah Webster Bible

Thou sayest, but they are but vain words, I have counsel and strength for the war. Now in whom dost thou trust, that thou rebellest against me?

World English Bible

You say (but they are but vain words), ‘There is counsel and strength for war.’ Now on whom do you trust, that you have rebelled against me?

Young's Literal Translation

Thou hast said: Only a word of the lips! counsel and might [are] for battle; now, on whom hast thou trusted that thou hast rebelled against me?

Context

Sennacherib Threatens Jerusalem

¹⁹The Rabshakeh said to them, “Tell Hezekiah that this is what the great king, the king of Assyria, says: What is the basis of this confidence of yours?²⁰You claim to have a strategy and strength for war, but these are empty words. In whom are you now trusting, that you have rebelled against me?

Sermons

Now on Whom Dost Thou Trust?

F.B. Meyer

Summary

In this verse, King Sennacherib's field commander is challenging the people of Judah, questioning their trust in God and their ability to resist the Assyrian army. The commander is attempting to instill fear and doubt among the Israelites, hoping to weaken their resolve and faith. This situation serves as a test of Hezekiah's leadership and the faith of the people, as they must choose whether to rely on their own strength or trust in the Lord for deliverance. Ultimately, this verse highlights the importance of unwavering faith in God, especially in the face of intimidating threats and challenges.

Commentary