2 Kings 18:26
2 Kings 18:26 in Multiple Translations
Then Eliakim son of Hilkiah, along with Shebnah and Joah, said to the Rabshakeh, “Please speak to your servants in Aramaic, since we understand it. Do not speak with us in Hebrew in the hearing of the people on the wall.”
Then said Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, and Shebna, and Joah, unto Rab-shakeh, Speak, I pray thee, to thy servants in the Syrian language; for we understand it: and talk not with us in the Jews’ language in the ears of the people that are on the wall.
Then said Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, and Shebnah, and Joah, unto Rabshakeh, Speak, I pray thee, to thy servants in the Syrian language; for we understand it: and speak not with us in the Jews’ language, in the ears of the people that are on the wall.
Then Eliakim, the son of Hilkiah, and Shebna and Joah said to the Rab-shakeh, Will you kindly make use of the Aramaean language in talking to your servants, for we are used to it, and do not make use of the Jews' language in the hearing of the people on the wall.
Eliakim, son of Hilkiah, together with Shebnah and Joah, said to the army general, “Please speak to us, your servants, in Aramaic, for we understand it. Don't speak to us in Hebrew while the people on the wall are listening.”
Then Eliakim the sonne of Hilkiah, and Shebnah, and Ioah said vnto Rabshakeh, Speake I pray thee, to thy seruants in the Aramites language, for we vnderstand it, and talke not with vs in the Iewes tongue, in the audience of the people that are on the wall.
And Eliakim son of Hilkiah saith — and Shebna, and Joah — to the chief of the butlers, 'Speak, we pray thee, unto thy servants [in] Aramaean, for we are understanding, and do not speak with us [in] Jewish, in the ears of the people who [are] on the wall.'
Then Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, Shebnah, and Joah, said to Rabshakeh, “Please speak to your servants in the Syrian language, for we understand it. Don’t speak with us in the Jews’ language, in the hearing of the people who are on the wall.”
Then said Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, and Shebna and Joah, to Rab-shakeh, Speak, I pray thee, to thy servants in the Syrian language; for we understand it : and talk not with us in the Jews language in the ears of the people that are on the wall.
Then Eliacim the son of Helcias, and Sobna, and Joahe said to Rabsaces: We pray thee speak to us thy servants in Syriac: for we understand that tongue: and speak not to us in the Jews’ language, in the hearing of the people that are upon the wall.
Then Eliakim, Shebna and Joah said to the official from Assyria, “Sir, please speak to us in your Aramaic language, because we understand it. Do not speak to us in our Hebrew language, because the people who are standing on the wall will understand it and be frightened.”
Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Kings 18:26
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
2 Kings 18:26 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר
אֶלְיָקִ֣ים
בֶּן
חִ֠לְקִיָּהוּ
וְ/שֶׁבְנָ֨ה
וְ/יוֹאָ֜ח
אֶל
רַב
שָׁקֵ֗ה
דַּבֶּר
נָ֤א
אֶל
עֲבָדֶ֨י/ךָ֙
אֲרָמִ֔ית
כִּ֥י
שֹׁמְעִ֖ים
אֲנָ֑חְנוּ
וְ/אַל
תְּדַבֵּ֤ר
עִמָּ֨/נוּ֙
יְהוּדִ֔ית
בְּ/אָזְנֵ֣י
הָ/עָ֔ם
אֲשֶׁ֖ר
עַל
הַ/חֹמָֽה
וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
אֶלְיָקִ֣ים
ʼElyâqîym
H471
Eliakim
N-proper
בֶּן
bên
H1121
son
N-ms
חִ֠לְקִיָּהוּ
Chilqîyâh
H2518
Hilkiah
N-proper
וְ/שֶׁבְנָ֨ה
Shebnâʼ
H7644
Shebna
Conj | N-proper
וְ/יוֹאָ֜ח
Yôwʼâch
H3098
Joah
Conj | N-proper
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep
רַב
Rabshâqêh
H7262
Rabshakeh
N-ms
שָׁקֵ֗ה
Rabshâqêh
H7262
Rabshakeh
N-proper
דַּבֶּר
dâbar
H1696
to speak
V-Piel-Impv-2ms
נָ֤א
nâʼ
H4994
please
Part
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep
עֲבָדֶ֨י/ךָ֙
ʻebed
H5650
servant/slave
N-mp | Suff
אֲרָמִ֔ית
ʼĂrâmîyth
H762
Aramaic
Ngfsa
כִּ֥י
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
שֹׁמְעִ֖ים
shâmaʻ
H8085
to hear
V-Qal
אֲנָ֑חְנוּ
ʼănachnûw
H587
we
Pron
וְ/אַל
ʼal
H408
not
Conj | Part
תְּדַבֵּ֤ר
dâbar
H1696
to speak
V-Piel-Juss-2ms
עִמָּ֨/נוּ֙
ʻim
H5973
with
Prep | Suff
יְהוּדִ֔ית
Yᵉhûwdîyth
H3066
Jewish
Ngfsa
בְּ/אָזְנֵ֣י
ʼôzen
H241
ear
Prep | N-fd
הָ/עָ֔ם
ʻam
H5971
Amaw
Art | N-ms
אֲשֶׁ֖ר
ʼăsher
H834
which
Rel
עַל
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep
הַ/חֹמָֽה
chôwmâh
H2346
wall
Art | N-fs
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — 2 Kings 18:26
וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
אֶלְיָקִ֣ים
ʼElyâqîym
H471
"Eliakim"
N-proper
Eliakim was a king of Judah during the Divided Monarchy, son of Josiah and Zebidah, and father of Jehoiachin. He is mentioned in 2 Kings 23:34 and Jeremiah 27:1.
Definition: A king of the tribe of Judah living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Ki.23.34; son of: Josiah (H2977) and Zebidah (H2080); half-brother of: Jehoahaz (H3059H), Zedekiah (H6667H) and Shallum (H7967J); married to Nehushta (H5179); father of: Jehoiachin (H3078); also called Zedekiah at Jer.27.1; Eliakim at 2Ki.23.34; 1x Another name of ye.ho.ya.qim (יְהוֹיָקִים "Jehoiakim" H3079) § Eliakim = "God raises" or "God sets up" 1) the son of Hilkiah, master of Hezekiah's household 2) Josiah's son, enthroned by Pharaoh 3) a priest who assisted Nehemiah
Usage: Occurs in 12 OT verses. KJV: Eliakim. See also: 2 Kings 18:18; Nehemiah 12:41; Isaiah 22:20.
בֶּן
bên
H1121
"son"
N-ms
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
חִ֠לְקִיָּהוּ
Chilqîyâh
H2518
"Hilkiah"
N-proper
Hilkiah was a significant Israelite with several roles, including high priest during Josiah's reign and father of Jeremiah. His name means my portion is Jehovah, reflecting his devotion to God.
Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, only mentioned at Jer.1.1; brother of: Shallum (H7967R); father of: Jeremiah (H3414L) § Hilkiah = "my portion is Jehovah" 1) father of Eliakim, an officer of Hezekiah 2) high priest in the reign of Josiah 3) a Merarite Levite, son of Amzi 4) another Merarite Levite, 2nd son of Hosah 5) one of those who stood on the right of Ezra when he read the law and probably a Levite and a priest 6) a priest of Anathoth, father of the prophet Jeremiah 7) father of Gemariah who was one of Zedekiah's envoys to Babylon
Usage: Occurs in 31 OT verses. KJV: Hillkiah. See also: 2 Kings 18:18; 2 Chronicles 34:14; Isaiah 22:20.
וְ/שֶׁבְנָ֨ה
Shebnâʼ
H7644
"Shebna"
Conj | N-proper
Shebna was a high-ranking official in King Hezekiah's court in Judah, mentioned in 2 Kings 18.
Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Ki.18.18; also called Shebnah at 2Ki.18.18,26; § Shebna = "vigour" a person of high position in the court of king Hezekiah of Judah; subsequently the secretary of Hezekiah
Usage: Occurs in 9 OT verses. KJV: Shebna, Shebnah. See also: 2 Kings 18:18; Isaiah 22:15; Isaiah 36:3.
וְ/יוֹאָ֜ח
Yôwʼâch
H3098
"Joah"
Conj | N-proper
Joah means Jehovah is brother, the name of four Israelites, including a chronicler to Hezekiah and a doorkeeper in David's time. He is mentioned in 2 Chronicles 29:12. Joah was a common name in biblical times.
Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Ch.29.12b; father of: Eden (H5731A) § Joah = "Jehovah is brother" 1) son of Asaph and chronicler to Hezekiah 2) a Gershonite son or grandson of Zimmah 3) a Korhite, 3rd son of Obed-edom and doorkeeper in the time of David 4) son of Joahaz and chronicler to king Josiah
Usage: Occurs in 10 OT verses. KJV: Joah. See also: 2 Kings 18:18; 2 Chronicles 29:12; Isaiah 36:3.
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
רַב
Rabshâqêh
H7262
"Rabshakeh"
N-ms
Rabshakeh was a high-ranking official in the Babylonian government, mentioned in 2 Kings 18:17. He was a chief cupbearer, which meant he was in charge of serving the king his drinks. The KJV Bible uses his name as it appears in the original Hebrew.
Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Ki.18.17 1) chief cupbearer, chief of the officers? 2) Rabshakeh
Usage: Occurs in 16 OT verses. KJV: Rabshakeh. See also: 2 Kings 18:17; Isaiah 36:2; Isaiah 36:4.
שָׁקֵ֗ה
Rabshâqêh
H7262
"Rabshakeh"
N-proper
Rabshakeh was a high-ranking official in the Babylonian government, mentioned in 2 Kings 18:17. He was a chief cupbearer, which meant he was in charge of serving the king his drinks. The KJV Bible uses his name as it appears in the original Hebrew.
Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Ki.18.17 1) chief cupbearer, chief of the officers? 2) Rabshakeh
Usage: Occurs in 16 OT verses. KJV: Rabshakeh. See also: 2 Kings 18:17; Isaiah 36:2; Isaiah 36:4.
דַּבֶּר
dâbar
H1696
"to speak"
V-Piel-Impv-2ms
To speak or communicate, like God speaking to Moses in Exodus or a king commanding his people. It can also mean to promise or warn someone.
Definition: : speak/tell/command 1) to speak, declare, converse, command, promise, warn, threaten, sing 1a) (Qal) to speak 1b) (Niphal) to speak with one another, talk 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to speak 1c2) to promise 1d) (Pual) to be spoken 1e) (Hithpael) to speak 1f) (Hiphil) to lead away, put to flight
Usage: Occurs in 1049 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, bid, command, commune, declare, destroy, give, name, promise, pronounce, rehearse, say, speak, be spokesman, subdue, talk, teach, tell, think, use (entreaties), utter, [idiom] well, [idiom] work. See also: Genesis 8:15; Exodus 12:25; Leviticus 23:9.
נָ֤א
nâʼ
H4994
"please"
Part
The Hebrew word 'nâ'' is used to express a polite request, like 'please' or 'I pray', and is often added to verbs to make them more polite. In the Bible, it appears in passages like Ezra's reading of the law to the people.
Definition: 1) I (we) pray, now, please 1a) used in entreaty or exhortation
Usage: Occurs in 374 OT verses. KJV: I beseech (pray) thee (you), go to, now, oh. See also: Genesis 12:11; Judges 4:19; 1 Kings 13:6.
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
עֲבָדֶ֨י/ךָ֙
ʻebed
H5650
"servant/slave"
N-mp | Suff
This word refers to a servant or slave, often in the context of serving God or a human master. It can also describe a prophet or Levite. The KJV translates it as bondage, bondman, or servant.
Definition: 1) slave, servant 1a) slave, servant, man-servant 1b) subjects 1c) servants, worshippers (of God) 1d) servant (in special sense as prophets, Levites etc) 1e) servant (of Israel) 1f) servant (as form of address between equals) Aramaic equivalent: a.vad (עֲבַד "servant/slave" H5649)
Usage: Occurs in 714 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] bondage, bondman, (bond-) servant, (man-) servant. See also: Genesis 9:25; Exodus 11:3; 1 Samuel 8:16.
אֲרָמִ֔ית
ʼĂrâmîyth
H762
"Aramaic"
Ngfsa
This word refers to the Aramaic language, which was spoken by people from Aram. In the Bible, it is used to describe the language of certain passages, such as those spoken by Jesus or written in the book of Daniel.
Definition: § Aramaic = "language" the language of Aram, Aramaic
Usage: Occurs in 4 OT verses. KJV: in the Syrian language (tongue), in Syriac. See also: 2 Kings 18:26; Isaiah 36:11; Daniel 2:4.
כִּ֥י
kîy
H3588
"for"
Conj
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
שֹׁמְעִ֖ים
shâmaʻ
H8085
"to hear"
V-Qal
To hear and listen is what this Hebrew word means, often implying attention and obedience. In Exodus and Deuteronomy, it is used when God speaks to the people, and they must listen and obey.
Definition: : hear v 1) to hear, listen to, obey 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to hear (perceive by ear) 1a2) to hear of or concerning 1a3) to hear (have power to hear) 1a4) to hear with attention or interest, listen to 1a5) to understand (language) 1a6) to hear (of judicial cases) 1a7) to listen, give heed 1a7a) to consent, agree 1a7b) to grant request 1a8) to listen to, yield to 1a9) to obey, be obedient 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be heard (of voice or sound) 1b2) to be heard of 1b3) to be regarded, be obeyed 1c) (Piel) to cause to hear, call to hear, summon 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to hear, tell, proclaim, utter a sound 1d2) to sound aloud (musical term) 1d3) to make proclamation, summon 1d4) to cause to be heard n m 2) sound
Usage: Occurs in 1072 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] attentively, call (gather) together, [idiom] carefully, [idiom] certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, [idiom] diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), [idiom] indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, [idiom] surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness. See also: Genesis 3:8; Exodus 32:18; Deuteronomy 27:9.
אֲנָ֑חְנוּ
ʼănachnûw
H587
"we"
Pron
A Hebrew word for we or us, used for emphasis, like when Moses said we will follow God's commands, emphasizing the community's commitment.
Definition: we (first pers. pl. -usually used for emphasis)
Usage: Occurs in 115 OT verses. KJV: ourselves, us, we. See also: Genesis 13:8; 1 Chronicles 11:1; Psalms 20:8.
וְ/אַל
ʼal
H408
"not"
Conj | Part
Means not or nothing, used to express negation, as in the phrase do not or let not be.
Definition: 1) not, no, nor, neither, nothing (as wish or preference) 1a) do not, let not (with a verb) 1b) let there not be (with a verb understood) 1c) not, no (with substantive) 1d) nothing (as substantive) Aramaic equivalent: al (אַל "not" H0409)
Usage: Occurs in 572 OT verses. KJV: nay, neither, [phrase] never, no, nor, not, nothing (worth), rather than. See also: Genesis 13:8; Joshua 11:6; 1 Chronicles 22:13.
תְּדַבֵּ֤ר
dâbar
H1696
"to speak"
V-Piel-Juss-2ms
To speak or communicate, like God speaking to Moses in Exodus or a king commanding his people. It can also mean to promise or warn someone.
Definition: : speak/tell/command 1) to speak, declare, converse, command, promise, warn, threaten, sing 1a) (Qal) to speak 1b) (Niphal) to speak with one another, talk 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to speak 1c2) to promise 1d) (Pual) to be spoken 1e) (Hithpael) to speak 1f) (Hiphil) to lead away, put to flight
Usage: Occurs in 1049 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, bid, command, commune, declare, destroy, give, name, promise, pronounce, rehearse, say, speak, be spokesman, subdue, talk, teach, tell, think, use (entreaties), utter, [idiom] well, [idiom] work. See also: Genesis 8:15; Exodus 12:25; Leviticus 23:9.
עִמָּ֨/נוּ֙
ʻim
H5973
"with"
Prep | Suff
This Hebrew word means with or together, like when God is with his people in Exodus 33:14-15. It's used to describe accompaniment or association, and can also mean against or beside. The word is used to convey a sense of relationship or proximity between people or things.
Definition: 1) with 1a) with 1b) against 1c) toward 1d) as long as
Usage: Occurs in 919 OT verses. KJV: accompanying, against, and, as ([idiom] long as), before, beside, by (reason of), for all, from (among, between), in, like, more than, of, (un-) to, with(-al). See also: Genesis 3:6; Exodus 21:14; Deuteronomy 29:11.
יְהוּדִ֔ית
Yᵉhûwdîyth
H3066
"Jewish"
Ngfsa
Refers to the Jewish language, as seen in the Bible when Jesus spoke in the Jews' language. This term is used to describe the Hebrew language. It appears in the New Testament.
Definition: § in the Jewish language, in Hebrew
Usage: Occurs in 6 OT verses. KJV: in the Jews' language. See also: 2 Kings 18:26; Nehemiah 13:24; Isaiah 36:11.
בְּ/אָזְנֵ֣י
ʼôzen
H241
"ear"
Prep | N-fd
The Hebrew word for ear, referring to the body part or the ability to hear, is used in various contexts, including listening to God's voice in Psalm 40:6. It can also mean to uncover or reveal something, as in 1 Samuel 20:2.
Definition: : ear 1) ear, as part of the body 2) ear, as organ of hearing 3) (subjective) to uncover the ear to reveal; the receiver of divine revelation
Usage: Occurs in 179 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] advertise, audience, [phrase] displease, ear, hearing, [phrase] show. See also: Genesis 20:8; Psalms 40:7; Psalms 10:17.
הָ/עָ֔ם
ʻam
H5971
"Amaw"
Art | N-ms
A people or nation is what this Hebrew word represents, like the nation of Israel in Exodus 33:13. It can also mean a tribe, troops, or attendants, and is used to describe a group of people gathered together. The word is often used to refer to the people of God.
Definition: This name means nation, people
Usage: Occurs in 1655 OT verses. KJV: folk, men, nation, people. See also: Genesis 11:6; Exodus 16:4; Leviticus 17:9.
אֲשֶׁ֖ר
ʼăsher
H834
"which"
Rel
This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.
Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when
Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.
עַל
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
הַ/חֹמָֽה
chôwmâh
H2346
"wall"
Art | N-fs
A wall of protection, like the walls of Jerusalem, provided safety and security for the people. It appears in the Bible as a physical barrier. The Israelites built walls around their cities for defense.
Definition: wall
Usage: Occurs in 123 OT verses. KJV: wall, walled. See also: Exodus 14:22; Nehemiah 6:15; Psalms 51:20.
Study Notes — 2 Kings 18:26
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- 2 Kings 18:26 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on 2 Kings 18:26
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Kings 18:26
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Kings 18:26
- Trapp's Commentary on 2 Kings 18:26
- Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Kings 18:26
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Kings 18:26
- Cambridge Bible on 2 Kings 18:26
- Barnes' Notes on 2 Kings 18:26
- Whedon's Commentary on 2 Kings 18:26
Context — Sennacherib Threatens Jerusalem
24For how can you repel a single officer among the least of my master’s servants when you depend on Egypt for chariots and horsemen?
25So now, was it apart from the LORD that I have come up against this place to destroy it? The LORD Himself said to me, ‘Go up against this land and destroy it.’”
26Then Eliakim son of Hilkiah, along with Shebnah and Joah, said to the Rabshakeh, “Please speak to your servants in Aramaic, since we understand it. Do not speak with us in Hebrew in the hearing of the people on the wall.”
27But the Rabshakeh replied, “Has my master sent me to speak these words only to you and your master, and not to the men sitting on the wall, who are destined with you to eat their own dung and drink their own urine?” 28Then the Rabshakeh stood and called out loudly in Hebrew: “Hear the word of the great king, the king of Assyria!Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ezra 4:7 | And in the days of Artaxerxes king of Persia, Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of his associates wrote a letter to Artaxerxes. It was written in Aramaic and then translated. |
| 2 | Daniel 2:4 | Then the astrologers answered the king in Aramaic, “O king, may you live forever! Tell your servants the dream, and we will give the interpretation.” |
| 3 | Isaiah 36:11–12 | Then Eliakim, Shebna, and Joah said to the Rabshakeh, “Please speak to your servants in Aramaic, since we understand it. Do not speak to us in Hebrew in the hearing of the people on the wall.” But the Rabshakeh replied, “Has my master sent me to speak these words only to you and your master, and not to the men sitting on the wall, who are destined with you to eat their own dung and drink their own urine?” |
| 4 | 2 Kings 18:18 | Then they called for the king; and Eliakim son of Hilkiah the palace administrator, Shebnah the scribe, and Joah son of Asaph the recorder, went out to them. |
2 Kings 18:26 Summary
In this verse, Eliakim asks the Rabshakeh to speak in a different language so that the people on the wall won't be scared or discouraged by his threatening words. This shows that Eliakim was trying to protect his people and handle the situation with wisdom, as advised in Proverbs 22:3. As believers, we can learn from Eliakim's example and trust in God's power and protection, even when faced with intimidating circumstances, as promised in Psalm 23:4 and 2 Corinthians 10:4. We can also be mindful of the impact of our words on others, and strive to use them to build up and encourage, rather than tear down, as advised in Ephesians 4:29-32.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Eliakim ask the Rabshakeh to speak in Aramaic instead of Hebrew?
Eliakim asked the Rabshakeh to speak in Aramaic because he wanted to keep the details of their conversation private, and not alarm the people on the wall, as stated in 2 Kings 18:26, similar to how the apostle Paul desired to speak to the Roman centurion in Acts 21:37, to avoid inciting a riot.
What was the significance of the people on the wall hearing the conversation?
The people on the wall would have been demoralized and frightened if they had heard the Rabshakeh's threatening words, which is why Eliakim wanted to keep the conversation private, as seen in the response of the people of Judah in 2 Kings 18:36, and the importance of guarding one's heart in Proverbs 4:23.
Was Eliakim trying to hide something from the people on the wall?
Eliakim was trying to protect the people on the wall from the Rabshakeh's intimidating words, which could have led to despair and hopelessness, as warned against in Psalm 42:11, and instead, he wanted to handle the situation with wisdom and discretion, as advised in Proverbs 22:3.
How does this verse relate to the idea of spiritual warfare?
This verse shows how spiritual enemies, like the Rabshakeh, try to intimidate and demoralize God's people, but believers can trust in God's power and protection, as promised in 2 Chronicles 20:15, and 2 Corinthians 10:4, and have confidence in His presence, as in Psalm 23:4.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that I can protect myself and others from the intimidating words of the enemy, and instead, trust in God's power and promises?
- How can I apply the principle of guarding my heart and mind, as seen in this verse, to my own life and relationships, and trust in God's sovereignty, as in Romans 8:28?
- What are some ways that I can demonstrate faith and trust in God, even in the face of intimidating circumstances, like the people of Judah in 2 Kings 18:36, and the apostle Paul in Acts 21:37-40?
- How can I use my words and actions to build up and encourage others, rather than tearing them down, as advised in Ephesians 4:29-32, and be a source of hope and comfort, like the prophet Isaiah in Isaiah 40:1-2?
Gill's Exposition on 2 Kings 18:26
[See comments on 2 Kings 18:17]
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Kings 18:26
Then said Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, and Shebna, and Joah, unto Rabshakeh, Speak, I pray thee, to thy servants in the Syrian language; for we understand it: and talk not with us in the Jews'
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Kings 18:26
Upon which these officers stood; not being willing to put themselves into the power of such a barbarous and perfidious enemy, by going out of the city.
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Kings 18:26
2 Kings 18:26 Then said Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, and Shebna, and Joah, unto Rabshakeh, Speak, I pray thee, to thy servants in the Syrian language; for we understand [it]: and talk not with us in the Jews’ language in the ears of the people that [are] on the wall. Ver. 26. Speak, I pray thee, … in the Syrian language.] This was no wise motion: but they were frightened; and some think it was wicked Shebna rather than good Eliakim that made it, purposely to provoke Rabshakeh to rail the more, and to lay open that whereby the people might be moved to yield up the city.
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Kings 18:26
(26) Speak, I pray thee . . . in the Syrian language.—HezeMah’s ministers naturally dread the effect of Rab-shakeh’s arguments and assertions upon the garrison of the city. The people, many of whom had always been accustomed to worship at the high places, might very well doubt whether there were not some truth in the allegation that Jehovah was incensed at their removal. In the Syrian language.—In Aramaic; which was at that time the language of diplomacy and commerce in the countries of Western Asia, as is proved by the bilingual contract-tablets (in Aramaic and Assyrian) discovered at Nineveh. In the Jews’ language.—In Jewish; an expression only found in Nehemiah 13:24 besides the present narrative. The word “Jew” (Yehϋdξ), from which it is derived, itself occurs only in the later Biblical books; but contemporary Assyrian usage (mβt Ya-u-di or Ya-u-du, “Judah;” Ya-u-da-a-a, “the Jews”) is in favour of the supposition that the people of the Southern kingdom were even then called Yehϋdim, and their language “Jewish” (Yehϋdξth). The spoken dialect probably differed considerably from other varieties of Hebrew, though not enough to make it unintelligible to other Hebrew-speaking peoples, such as the northern Israelites and the Moabites and Edomites.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Kings 18:26
Verse 26. Talk not with us in the Jews' language] The object of this blasphemous caitiff was to stir up the people to sedition, that the city and the king might be delivered into his hand.
Cambridge Bible on 2 Kings 18:26
26–37. Further insolence of Rab-shakeh. He addresses the people that stand on the wall. Despair of hezekiah’s ministers (2 Chronicles 32:13-19; Isaiah 35:1-2) 26. Speak, I pray thee … in the Syrian language] The language intended is more properly named, as in the margin of R.V. ‘Aramæan’ This was the language of Mesopotamia and Babylon. It was of the same family as Hebrew, but yet not commonly understood by the people of Judæa. The court officials would of necessity have to speak it for the purposes of political intercourse. ‘Syriac’ is a later dialect of Aramæan. For ‘talk not’ R.V. has speak not. The original word is the same as in the previous clause. By their request Eliakim and his companions at once put themselves at Rabshakeh’s mercy, and he shewed them none. ‘Lewd men are the worse for admonitions.
Rab-shakeh had not so strained his throat to corrupt the citizens of Jerusalem, had it not been for the humble obtestation of Eliakim. Now he rears up his voice and holds up his sides, and roars out his double blasphemies’ (Bp Hall). the people that are on the wall] There had gathered a crowd around Hezekiah’s ministers to hear the issue of the conference, and these from their previous sufferings in the siege would be ready enough to put a favourable construction on Rab-shakeh’s argument. The Chronicler (2 Chronicles 32:11) represents him as employing the powerful argument to starving men ‘Doth not Hezekiah persuade you to give yourselves over to die by famine and by thirst’? This is the fearful extremity which is so coarsely alluded to in the words of the next verse. That such food had been used by persons reduced to extremity in a siege, see above chap. 2 Kings 6:25 and the note there.
Barnes' Notes on 2 Kings 18:26
The Syrian language - i. e., Aramaic; probably the dialect of Damascus, a Semitic language nearly akin to their own, but suffciently different to be unintelligible to ordinary Jews The people that
Whedon's Commentary on 2 Kings 18:26
26. Speak… in the Syrian language — The Jewish officers thus interrupted Rab-shakeh in the midst of his address. Such words as those of 2 Kings 18:25 are, alas!