Isaiah 39:1
Isaiah 39:1 in Multiple Translations
At that time Merodach-baladan son of Baladan king of Babylon sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah, for he had heard about Hezekiah’s illness and recovery.
At that time Merodach-baladan, the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present to Hezekiah: for he had heard that he had been sick, and was recovered.
At that time Merodach-baladan the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present to Hezekiah; for he heard that he had been sick, and was recovered.
At that time Merodach-baladan, the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters with an offering to Hezekiah, because he had news that Hezekiah had been ill, and was well again.
At the same time Merodach-baladan, son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah, because he had heard that Hezekiah was sick and had recovered.
At the same time, Merodach Baladan, the sonne of Baladan, King of Babel, sent letters, and a present to Hezekiah: for he had heard that he had bene sicke, and was recouered.
At that time hath Merodach-Baladan, son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present unto Hezekiah, when he heareth that he hath been sick, and is become strong.
At that time, Merodach-baladan the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present to Hezekiah, for he heard that he had been sick, and had recovered.
At that time Merodach-baladan, the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present to Hezekiah: for he had heard that he had been sick, and had recovered.
At that time Merodach Baladan, the son of Baladan king of Babylon, sent letters and presents to Ezechias: for he had heard that he had been sick and was recovered.
Soon after that, Baladan’s son Merodach-Baladan, the King of Babylon, heard a report that Hezekiah had been very sick but that he had recovered. So he wrote some notes and gave them to some messengers to take to Hezekiah, along with a gift.
Berean Amplified Bible — Isaiah 39:1
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.
Isaiah 39:1 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
בָּ/עֵ֣ת
הַ/הִ֡וא
שָׁלַ֡ח
מְרֹדַ֣ךְ
בַּ֠לְאֲדָן
בֶּֽן
בַּלְאֲדָ֧ן
מֶֽלֶךְ
בָּבֶ֛ל
סְפָרִ֥ים
וּ/מִנְחָ֖ה
אֶל
חִזְקִיָּ֑הוּ
וַ/יִּשְׁמַ֕ע
כִּ֥י
חָלָ֖ה
וַֽ/יֶּחֱזָֽק
בָּ/עֵ֣ת
ʻêth
H6256
time
Prep | N-cs
הַ/הִ֡וא
hûwʼ
H1931
he/she/it
Art | Pron
שָׁלַ֡ח
shâlach
H7971
to send
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
מְרֹדַ֣ךְ
Mᵉrôʼdak Balʼâdân
H4757
Merodach-baladan
N-proper
בַּ֠לְאֲדָן
Mᵉrôʼdak Balʼâdân
H4757
Merodach-baladan
N-proper
בֶּֽן
bên
H1121
son
N-ms
בַּלְאֲדָ֧ן
Balʼădân
H1081
Baladan
N-proper
מֶֽלֶךְ
melek
H4428
King's
N-ms
בָּבֶ֛ל
Bâbel
H894
Babylon
N-proper
סְפָרִ֥ים
çêpher
H5612
scroll
N-mp
וּ/מִנְחָ֖ה
minchâh
H4503
offering
Conj | N-fs
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep
חִזְקִיָּ֑הוּ
Chizqîyâh
H2396
Hezekiah
N-proper
וַ/יִּשְׁמַ֕ע
shâmaʻ
H8085
to hear
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
כִּ֥י
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
חָלָ֖ה
châlâh
H2470
be weak
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
וַֽ/יֶּחֱזָֽק
châzaq
H2388
to strengthen
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Isaiah 39:1
בָּ/עֵ֣ת
ʻêth
H6256
"time"
Prep | N-cs
Eth means time, especially now or when, and can refer to an event, experience, or occasion. It is often used to describe a specific moment or period.
Definition: 1) time 1a) time (of an event) 1b) time (usual) 1c) experiences, fortunes 1d) occurrence, occasion
Usage: Occurs in 258 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] after, (al-) ways, [idiom] certain, [phrase] continually, [phrase] evening, long, (due) season, so (long) as, (even-, evening-, noon-) tide, (meal-), what) time, when. See also: Genesis 8:11; 2 Chronicles 35:17; Psalms 1:3.
הַ/הִ֡וא
hûwʼ
H1931
"he/she/it"
Art | Pron
This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.
Definition: pron 3p s 1) he, she, it 1a) himself (with emphasis) 1b) resuming subj with emphasis 1c) (with minimum emphasis following predicate) 1d) (anticipating subj) 1e) (emphasising predicate) 1f) that, it (neuter) demons pron 2) that (with article)
Usage: Occurs in 1693 OT verses. KJV: he, as for her, him(-self), it, the same, she (herself), such, that (...it), these, they, this, those, which (is), who. See also: Genesis 2:11; Genesis 32:19; Exodus 21:3.
שָׁלַ֡ח
shâlach
H7971
"to send"
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
To send or depart is the meaning of this Hebrew word, which has various applications in the Bible. It can describe sending someone or something away, or letting something go.
Definition: : depart/send 1) to send, send away, let go, stretch out 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to send 1a2) to stretch out, extend, direct 1a3) to send away 1a4) to let loose 1b) (Niphal) to be sent 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to send off or away or out or forth, dismiss, give over, cast out 1c2) to let go, set free 1c3) to shoot forth (of branches) 1c4) to let down 1c5) to shoot 1d) (Pual) to be sent off, be put away, be divorced, be impelled 1e) (Hiphil) to send
Usage: Occurs in 790 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] any wise, appoint, bring (on the way), cast (away, out), conduct, [idiom] earnestly, forsake, give (up), grow long, lay, leave, let depart (down, go, loose), push away, put (away, forth, in, out), reach forth, send (away, forth, out), set, shoot (forth, out), sow, spread, stretch forth (out). See also: Genesis 3:22; Exodus 9:27; Joshua 14:11.
מְרֹדַ֣ךְ
Mᵉrôʼdak Balʼâdân
H4757
"Merodach-baladan"
N-proper
Merodach-baladan was a king of Babylon who interacted with King Hezekiah of Judah. His name means Marduk has given a son, and he is mentioned in 2 Kings 20:12. He was a significant figure in the ancient Near East.
Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Ki.20.12; son of: Baladan (H1081) Another spelling of be.ro.dakh bal.a.dan (בְּרֹאדַךְ בַּלְאֲדָן "Merodach-baladan" H1255) § Merodach-baladan = "Marduk has given a son" king of Babylon in the days of king Hezekiah of Judah
Usage: Occurs in 1 OT verses. KJV: Merodach-baladan. Compare H4781 (מְרֹדָךְ). See also: Isaiah 39:1.
בַּ֠לְאֲדָן
Mᵉrôʼdak Balʼâdân
H4757
"Merodach-baladan"
N-proper
Merodach-baladan was a king of Babylon who interacted with King Hezekiah of Judah. His name means Marduk has given a son, and he is mentioned in 2 Kings 20:12. He was a significant figure in the ancient Near East.
Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Ki.20.12; son of: Baladan (H1081) Another spelling of be.ro.dakh bal.a.dan (בְּרֹאדַךְ בַּלְאֲדָן "Merodach-baladan" H1255) § Merodach-baladan = "Marduk has given a son" king of Babylon in the days of king Hezekiah of Judah
Usage: Occurs in 1 OT verses. KJV: Merodach-baladan. Compare H4781 (מְרֹדָךְ). See also: Isaiah 39:1.
בֶּֽן
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.
בַּלְאֲדָ֧ן
Balʼădân
H1081
"Baladan"
N-proper
Baladan was a Babylonian prince, the father of Merodach-baladan, who interacted with King Hezekiah in 2 Kings 20:12. Hezekiah showed Baladan the riches of his treasures. Baladan's name means Bel is his lord.
Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Ki.20.12; son of: Baladan (H1081); father of: Merodach-baladan (H1255) § Baladan = "Bel (is his) lord)" the father of Merodach-baladan to whom Hezekiah revealed the riches of his treasures
Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: Baladan. See also: 2 Kings 20:12; Isaiah 39:1.
מֶֽלֶךְ
melek
H4428
"King's"
N-ms
This word refers to a king or royal person, like King David or King Saul. It can also describe something related to a king, like the King's Valley in Genesis. The Bible often uses this word to talk about the rulers of Israel.
Definition: King's (Valley) (Gen.14.17)
Usage: Occurs in 1919 OT verses. KJV: king, royal. See also: Genesis 14:1; Joshua 10:39; 1 Samuel 16:1.
בָּבֶ֛ל
Bâbel
H894
"Babylon"
N-proper
Babel refers to Babylon, a city and empire in the Bible, meaning confusion or mixing. It appears in Genesis 11:9 and is associated with the tower of Babel. The city was situated on the Euphrates River.
Definition: § Babel or Babylon = "confusion (by mixing)" Babel or Babylon, the ancient site and/or capital of Babylonia (modern Hillah) situated on the Euphrates
Usage: Occurs in 233 OT verses. KJV: Babel, Babylon. See also: Genesis 10:10; Jeremiah 29:22; Psalms 87:4.
סְפָרִ֥ים
çêpher
H5612
"scroll"
N-mp
This word means a written document, like a scroll or book, used to record important events or messages. It appears in books like Isaiah and Matthew, referring to written records.
Definition: : document 1) missive, document, writing, book 1a) missive 1a1) letter (of instruction), written order, commission, request, written decree 1b) legal document, certificate of divorce, deed of purchase, indictment, sign 1c) book, scroll 1c1) book of prophecies 1c2) genealogical register 1c3) law-book 1c4) book (of poems) 1c5) book (of kings) 1c6) books of the canon, scripture 1c7) record book (of God) 1d) book-learning, writing 1d1) be able to read (after verb 'to know')
Usage: Occurs in 174 OT verses. KJV: bill, book, evidence, [idiom] learn(-ed) (-ing), letter, register, scroll. See also: Genesis 5:1; 2 Chronicles 17:9; Psalms 40:8.
וּ/מִנְחָ֖ה
minchâh
H4503
"offering"
Conj | N-fs
The Hebrew word for offering refers to a gift or donation, often given to God as a sacrifice. In Leviticus 2:1, it describes a grain offering. It can also mean tribute or present.
Definition: : offering/sacrifice 1) gift, tribute, offering, present, oblation, sacrifice, meat offering 1a) gift, present 1b) tribute 1c) offering (to God) 1d) grain offering
Usage: Occurs in 194 OT verses. KJV: gift, oblation, (meat) offering, present, sacrifice. See also: Genesis 4:3; Numbers 29:28; Psalms 20:4.
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.
חִזְקִיָּ֑הוּ
Chizqîyâh
H2396
"Hezekiah"
N-proper
Hezekiah was a king of Judah who served Jehovah and removed idolatrous practices. He was the son of Ahaz and Abijah, and a great-great-grandfather of Zephaniah the prophet. His name means Jehovah is my strength.
Definition: A man living at the time of Divided Monarchy, only mentioned at Zep.1.1; father of: Amariah (H0568O) § Hezekiah or Hizkiah or Hizkijah = "Jehovah is my strength" 1) 12th king of Judah, son of Ahaz and Abijah; a good king in that he served Jehovah and did away with idolatrous practices 2) great-great-grandfather of Zephaniah the prophet 3) son of Neariah, a descendant of David 4) head of a family of returning exiles in the time of Nehemiah
Usage: Occurs in 119 OT verses. KJV: Hezekiah, Hizkiah, Hizkijah. Compare H3169 (יְחִזְקִיָּה). See also: 2 Kings 16:20; 2 Chronicles 31:20; Proverbs 25:1.
וַ/יִּשְׁמַ֕ע
shâmaʻ
H8085
"to hear"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
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.
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.
חָלָ֖ה
châlâh
H2470
"be weak"
V-Qal-Perf-3ms
To beg or entreat means to ask or pray for something, often with a sense of weakness or sickness, like when someone is grieving or in pain.
Definition: : weak/disabled 1) to be or become weak, be or become sick, be or become diseased, be or become grieved, be or become sorry 1a) (Qal) to be weak, be sick 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to be or become weak, feel weak 1b2) to become sick, become ill 1c) (Niphal) 1c1) to make oneself sick 1c2) to be made sick 1c3) to be tired 1d) (Pual) to be made weak, become weak 1e) (Hithpael) to make oneself sick 1f) (Hiphil) 1f1) to make sore 1f2) to make sick 1f3) to show signs of sickness, become sick 1f4) to grieve 1g) (Hophal) 1g1) to be made sick 1g2) to be wounded
Usage: Occurs in 73 OT verses. KJV: beseech, (be) diseased, (put to) grief, be grieved, (be) grievous, infirmity, intreat, lay to, put to pain, [idiom] pray, make prayer, be (fall, make) sick, sore, be sorry, make suit ([idiom] supplication), woman in travail, be (become) weak, be wounded. See also: Genesis 48:1; Psalms 119:58; Psalms 35:13.
וַֽ/יֶּחֱזָֽק
châzaq
H2388
"to strengthen"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
To strengthen means to be strong or courageous, and can also mean to seize or conquer, as seen in various KJV translations.
Definition: : strengthen/support/encourage 1) to strengthen, prevail, harden, be strong, become strong, be courageous, be firm, grow firm, be resolute, be sore 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to be strong, grow strong 1a1a) to prevail, prevail upon 1a1b) to be firm, be caught fast, be secure 1a1c) to press, be urgent 1a1d) to grow stout, grow rigid, grow hard (bad sense) 1a1e) to be severe, be grievous 1a2) to strengthen 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to make strong 1b2) to restore to strength, give strength 1b3) to strengthen, sustain, encourage 1b4) to make strong, make bold, encourage 1b5) to make firm 1b6) to make rigid, make hard 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to make strong, strengthen 1c2) to make firm 1c3) to display strength 1c4) to make severe 1c5) to support 1c6) to repair 1c7) to prevail, prevail upon 1c8) to have or take or keep hold of, retain, hold up, sustain, support 1c9) to hold, contain 1d) (Hithpael) 1d1) to strengthen oneself 1d2) to put forth strength, use one's strength 1d3) to withstand 1d4) to hold strongly with
Usage: Occurs in 266 OT verses. KJV: aid, amend, [idiom] calker, catch, cleave, confirm, be constant, constrain, continue, be of good (take) courage(-ous, -ly), encourage (self), be established, fasten, force, fortify, make hard, harden, help, (lay) hold (fast), lean, maintain, play the man, mend, become (wax) mighty, prevail, be recovered, repair, retain, seize, be (wax) sore, strengthen (self), be stout, be (make, shew, wax) strong(-er), be sure, take (hold), be urgent, behave self valiantly, withstand. See also: Genesis 19:16; 1 Chronicles 22:13; Psalms 27:14.
Study Notes — Isaiah 39:1
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Context — Hezekiah Shows His Treasures
1At that time Merodach-baladan son of Baladan king of Babylon sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah, for he had heard about Hezekiah’s illness and recovery.
2And Hezekiah welcomed the envoys gladly and showed them what was in his treasure house—the silver, the gold, the spices, and the precious oil, as well as his entire armory—all that was found in his storehouses. There was nothing in his palace or in all his dominion that Hezekiah did not show them. 3Then the prophet Isaiah went to King Hezekiah and asked, “Where did those men come from, and what did they say to you?” “They came to me from a distant land,” Hezekiah replied, “from Babylon.”Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 Kings 20:12–19 | At that time Merodach-baladan son of Baladan king of Babylon sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah, for he had heard about Hezekiah’s illness. And Hezekiah received the envoys and showed them all that was in his treasure house—the silver, the gold, the spices, and the precious oil, as well as his armory—all that was found in his storehouses. There was nothing in his palace or in all his dominion that Hezekiah did not show them. Then the prophet Isaiah went to King Hezekiah and asked, “Where did those men come from, and what did they say to you?” “They came from a distant land,” Hezekiah replied, “from Babylon.” “What have they seen in your palace?” Isaiah asked. “They have seen everything in my palace,” answered Hezekiah. “There is nothing among my treasures that I did not show them.” Then Isaiah said to Hezekiah, “Hear the word of the LORD: The time will surely come when everything in your palace and all that your fathers have stored up until this day will be carried off to Babylon. Nothing will be left, says the LORD. And some of your descendants, your own flesh and blood, will be taken away to be eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon.” But Hezekiah said to Isaiah, “The word of the LORD that you have spoken is good.” For he thought, “Will there not at least be peace and security in my lifetime?” |
| 2 | Isaiah 39:1–8 | At that time Merodach-baladan son of Baladan king of Babylon sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah, for he had heard about Hezekiah’s illness and recovery. And Hezekiah welcomed the envoys gladly and showed them what was in his treasure house—the silver, the gold, the spices, and the precious oil, as well as his entire armory—all that was found in his storehouses. There was nothing in his palace or in all his dominion that Hezekiah did not show them. Then the prophet Isaiah went to King Hezekiah and asked, “Where did those men come from, and what did they say to you?” “They came to me from a distant land,” Hezekiah replied, “from Babylon.” “What have they seen in your palace?” Isaiah asked. “They have seen everything in my palace,” answered Hezekiah. “There is nothing among my treasures that I did not show them.” Then Isaiah said to Hezekiah, “Hear the word of the LORD of Hosts: The time will surely come when everything in your palace and all that your fathers have stored up until this day will be carried off to Babylon. Nothing will be left, says the LORD. And some of your descendants, your own flesh and blood, will be taken away to be eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon.” But Hezekiah said to Isaiah, “The word of the LORD that you have spoken is good.” For he thought, “At least there will be peace and security in my lifetime.” |
| 3 | 2 Samuel 10:2 | And David said, “I will show kindness to Hanun son of Nahash, just as his father showed kindness to me.” So David sent some of his servants to console Hanun concerning his father. But when they arrived in the land of the Ammonites, |
| 4 | Isaiah 13:1 | This is the burden against Babylon that Isaiah son of Amoz received: |
| 5 | 2 Chronicles 32:23 | Many brought offerings to Jerusalem for the LORD and valuable gifts for Hezekiah king of Judah, and from then on he was exalted in the eyes of all nations. |
| 6 | Isaiah 13:19 | And Babylon, the jewel of the kingdoms, the glory of the pride of the Chaldeans, will be overthrown by God like Sodom and Gomorrah. |
| 7 | 2 Chronicles 32:31 | And so when ambassadors of the rulers of Babylon were sent to him to inquire about the wonder that had happened in the land, God left him alone to test him, that He might know all that was in Hezekiah’s heart. |
| 8 | Isaiah 23:13 | Look at the land of the Chaldeans — a people now of no account. The Assyrians destined it for the desert creatures; they set up their siege towers and stripped its palaces. They brought it to ruin. |
| 9 | Isaiah 14:4 | you will sing this song of contempt against the king of Babylon: How the oppressor has ceased, and how his fury has ended! |
| 10 | 2 Samuel 8:10 | he sent his son Joram to greet King David and bless him for fighting and defeating Hadadezer, who had been at war with Toi. Joram brought with him articles of silver and gold and bronze, |
Isaiah 39:1 Summary
In Isaiah 39:1, we see that Merodach-baladan, the son of the king of Babylon, sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah because he had heard about Hezekiah's illness and recovery. This event marked the beginning of a series of events that would test Hezekiah's faith and trust in God, as seen in Isaiah 38:1-22 and 2 Kings 20:1-11. Just like Hezekiah, we may face situations where we are tempted to seek the approval and recognition of others, but we must remember to trust in God's sovereignty and provision, as seen in Psalm 37:3-7 and Jeremiah 29:11. By focusing on God's Word and promises, we can cultivate a deeper sense of security and identity in Christ, as seen in Galatians 1:10 and 1 Thessalonians 2:4-6.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Merodach-baladan and why did he send letters and a gift to Hezekiah?
Merodach-baladan was the son of Baladan, the king of Babylon, and he sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah because he had heard about Hezekiah's illness and recovery, as stated in Isaiah 39:1. This act may have been a gesture of goodwill, but it also marked the beginning of a series of events that would test Hezekiah's faith, as seen in Isaiah 39:2-3 and 2 Kings 20:12-13.
What was the significance of Hezekiah's illness and recovery in the context of this verse?
Hezekiah's illness and recovery, as mentioned in Isaiah 39:1, refer to the events described in Isaiah 38:1-22, where Hezekiah was healed by God after praying for mercy, as seen in Isaiah 38:2-3 and 2 Kings 20:1-11. This miracle may have been the reason why Merodach-baladan heard about Hezekiah and sent him letters and a gift.
How does this verse relate to the overall theme of Isaiah 39?
Isaiah 39:1 sets the stage for the rest of the chapter, which explores the themes of faith, pride, and God's sovereignty, as seen in Isaiah 39:5-7. Hezekiah's response to Merodach-baladan's gift and the subsequent events that unfold serve as a test of Hezekiah's faith and a reminder of God's ultimate control over the nations, as stated in Isaiah 40:15-17 and 2 Kings 20:12-19.
What can we learn from Hezekiah's interactions with the Babylonian envoys in this verse?
Hezekiah's interactions with the Babylonian envoys, as described in Isaiah 39:1-2, serve as a reminder to be cautious when interacting with those who may have ulterior motives, as seen in Proverbs 26:24-26 and Matthew 10:16-20. We should be wise and discerning in our relationships, just as Hezekiah should have been more discerning in his dealings with Merodach-baladan, as warned in 2 Corinthians 11:3 and 1 Peter 5:8-9.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways that God tests our faith, and how can we respond with trust and obedience, as seen in James 1:2-4 and 1 Peter 1:6-7?
- How can we balance hospitality and kindness towards others with the need to be wise and discerning in our relationships, as seen in Matthew 10:16-20 and Romans 16:19?
- What are some potential dangers of seeking the approval and recognition of others, and how can we cultivate a deeper sense of security and identity in Christ, as seen in Galatians 1:10 and 1 Thessalonians 2:4-6?
- How can we learn from Hezekiah's mistakes and respond more faithfully to the challenges and opportunities that God brings into our lives, as seen in Psalm 119:71 and 1 Corinthians 10:12-13?
Gill's Exposition on Isaiah 39:1
At that time Merodachbaladan, the son of Baladan, king of Babylon,.... The same is called Berodach, 2 Kings 20:12 which, according to Hillerus (z), is the same with Barmerodach, the son of Merodach;
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Isaiah 39:1
At that time Merodach-baladan, the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present to Hezekiah: for he had heard that he had been sick, and was recovered. Merodach-baladan.
Trapp's Commentary on Isaiah 39:1
Isaiah 39:1 At that time Merodachbaladan, the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present to Hezekiah: for he had heard that he had been sick, and was recovered. Ver. 1. See 2 Kings 20:12 &c. &c.
Ellicott's Commentary on Isaiah 39:1
XXXIX. (1) Merodach-baladan.—The name is conspicuous in the Assyrian inscriptions of Sargon (Records of the Past, ix. 13), as having rebelled against him and set up an independent monarchy. He is described in them as son of Yakin, but this is, probably, a dynastic appellative, just as Jehu is described in the Assyrian records (Records of the Past, v. 41) as “the son of Khumri” (i.e., Omri). The mission had two ostensible objects: (1) congratulation on Hezekiah’s recovery; (2) to inquire and report as to the phenomenon of the sun-dial (2 Chronicles 32:31). Really, we may believe the object of Merôdach-baladan was to open negotiations for an alliance with Judah. The “present,” interpreted after the manner of the East, would seem almost like an acknowledgment of Hezekiah’s hegemony, or even suzerainty, in such a confederacy.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Isaiah 39:1
CHAPTER XXXIX The Babylonish monarch sends letters of congratulation and a present to Hezekiah, on account of his recovery from his late dangerous illness, 1. The king of Judah shows the messengers of Merodach-baladan all the treasures of his house and kingdom, 2. The prophet takes occasion from this ostentatious display of the king to predict the captivity of the royal family, and of the people, by the Babylonians, 3-8. NOTES ON CHAP. XXXIX Hitherto the copy of this history in the second book of Kings has been much the most correct; in this chapter that in Isaiah has the advantage. In the two first verses two mistakes in the other copy are to be corrected from this: for הזקיהו hizkiyahu, read ויחזק vayechezek, and was recovered; and for וישמע vaiyishma, he heard, read וישמח vaiyismach, he rejoiced. Verse 1. At that time Merodach-baladan] This name is variously written in the MSS. Berodach, Medorach, Medarech, and Medurach. "And ambassadors"] The Septuagint add here καιπρεσβεις; that is, ומלאכים umalachim, and ambassadors; which word seems to be necessary to the sense, though omitted in the Hebrew text both here and in the other copy, 2Kg 20:12.
For the subsequent narration refers to them all along, "these men, whence came they?" c. plainly supposing them to have been personally mentioned before. See Houbigant.
Cambridge Bible on Isaiah 39:1
1. Merodach-baladan, the son of Baladan] The form “Berodach” in 2 Kings 20:12 is less correct. Marduk-habal-iddina is described in the monuments as “son of Yakin”; but this is no reason for doubting the identity of the person. The latter is probably his dynastic title. letters] a letter, as ch. Isaiah 37:14. LXX. adds καὶπρέσβεις i.e. “ambassadors,” whose presence is assumed in the next verse. for he had heard] So in 2 Kings 20:12 correctly. The text here reads strictly “and he heard.” The motive here specified was merely a pretext to veil the real political object of the mission. This appears clearly enough in what follows. According to 2 Chronicles 32:31 the embassy was prompted by scientific curiosity with regard to the miracle of the sun-dial.
Barnes' Notes on Isaiah 39:1
At that time - That is, soon after his recovery; or after he had amassed great wealth, and was surrounded with the evidences of prosperity 2 Chronicles 32:27-31.
Whedon's Commentary on Isaiah 39:1
.1. At that time — Soon after the recovery of Hezekiah; for Merodach-baladan, governor or king of Babylon, had heard that Hezekiah had been sick and was now recovered. Much difficulty exists as to the time of this message.
Sermons on Isaiah 39:1
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(Through the Bible) 2 Kings 17-25 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, the speaker discusses how people often pursue things that are empty and unfulfilling, leading to temporary moments of excitement and pleasure but no lasting happine |
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(The Word for Today) Isaiah 13:1 - Part 1 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses the concept of the day of the Lord and its significance in biblical prophecy. He explains that the day of the Lord refers to a future p |
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Thanksgiving in the Kingdom Part 2 by Chuck Smith | In this video, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses the burden of Babylon as described in Isaiah chapter 13. He emphasizes the importance of lifting up a banner and exalting the voice to p |
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(Isaiah) the Pain of the Prophet by David Guzik | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the book of Isaiah and its message of judgment and refuge. He describes how Isaiah shifts his gaze between the refugees fleeing from Moab an |
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(Isaiah) the Words of a Worshipper by David Guzik | In this sermon, the preacher begins by encouraging listeners to find encouragement in the midst of a wicked world. He emphasizes the importance of not being conformed to the ways o |
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Testing and Trials by Erlo Stegen | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of giving all honor, praise, and glory to God. He encourages the listeners to have a heart filled with gratitude and thanks t |
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The Hour of Isolation by David Wilkerson | David Wilkerson speaks about the experience of divine silence and the feelings of confusion and isolation that can accompany it. He reflects on the times when God seems distant, ur |