2 Kings 18:36

Verse

But the people remained silent and did not answer a word, for Hezekiah had commanded, “Do not answer him.”

American Standard Version (1901)

But the people held their peace, and answered him not a word; for the king’s commandment was, saying, Answer him not.

But the people kept quiet and gave him no answer: for the king's order was, Give him no answer.

But the people held their peace, and answered him not a word: for they had received commandment from the king that they should not answer him.

Free Bible Version

But the people remained silent and didn't say anything, for Hezekiah had given the order, “Don't answer him.”

Geneva Bible 1599

But the people helde their peace, and answered not him a worde: for the Kings commandement was, saying, Answere ye him not.

King James (Authorized) Version

But the people held their peace, and answered him not a word: for the king’s commandment was, saying, Answer him not.

Translation for Translators

But the people who were listening stayed silent. No one said anything, because King Hezekiah had told them, “When the official from Assyria talks to you, do not answer him.”

Unlocked Literal Bible

But the people remained silent and did not respond, for the king had commanded, “Do not answer him.”

Noah Webster Bible

But the people held their peace, and answered him not a word: for the king's commandment was, saying, Answer him not.

World English Bible

But the people stayed quiet, and answered him not a word; for the king’s commandment was, “Don’t answer him.”

Young's Literal Translation

And the people have kept silent, and have not answered him a word, for the command of the king is, saying, 'Do not answer him.'

Context

Sennacherib Threatens Jerusalem

³⁵Who among all the gods of these lands has delivered his land from my hand? How then can the LORD deliver Jerusalem from my hand?”³⁶But the people remained silent and did not answer a word, for Hezekiah had commanded, “Do not answer him.”

Summary

In this verse, the Rabshakeh, a high-ranking official of the Assyrian king, insults King Hezekiah of Judah and the people of Jerusalem by questioning their trust in Egypt for help against the Assyrian army. The Rabshakeh tries to instill fear and doubt in the hearts of the Israelites, aiming to weaken their resolve and faith in God. This confrontation highlights the importance of staying steadfast in faith during times of crisis, trusting in the Lord's deliverance rather than relying on human alliances or worldly powers. It serves as a reminder to remain faithful and obedient to God, even in the face of intimidation and threats from the enemy.

Commentary

Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke Bible Commentary

Answer him not - The blasphemy is too barefaced; Jehovah is insulted, not you; let him avenge his own quarrel. See the succeeding chapter, 2 Kings 19 (note).