Wherefore the wrath of the LORD was upon Judah and Jerusalem, and he hath delivered them to trouble, to astonishment, and to hissing, as ye see with your eyes.

2 CHRONICLES 29:8KJV
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2 Chronicles 29:8 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 29:8 mean?

2 Chronicles 29:8 says that because of the people's actions, the LORD's anger came upon Judah and Jerusalem, and God allowed them to experience trouble, shock, and public scorn, which was obvious to everyone. The verse points out that these hardships were a direct result of their behavior and were visible to all who saw them.

King Hezekiah is speaking to the people of Judah, explaining why their nation has suffered so much. He is reminding them that their unfaithfulness led to God's "wrath" and the difficult situations they now face. This verse sets the stage for Hezekiah's call to return to proper worship and restore their relationship with God.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 29:8

  • "wrath" (קֶצֶף, qetsef): This word points to a strong, burning anger, not just disappointment. It emphasizes the seriousness of the people's actions and the intensity of the consequences.
  • "delivered" (נָתַן, natan): This verb means "to give" or "to hand over." It shows that God actively allowed these troubles to happen, rather than simply letting events unfold by chance.
  • "trouble" (זַעֲוָה, za'avah): This word can mean panic or turmoil, highlighting the deep distress the people experienced.
  • "astonishment" (שַׁמָּה, shammah): This word often refers to something shocking or appalling, the kind of disaster that leaves people stunned.
  • "hissing" (שְׁרֵקָה, shreqah): This refers to a sound people made to show scorn or ridicule, like a hiss or a whistle. It means others looked at Judah and Jerusalem with contempt.

Why 2 Chronicles 29:8 matters

  • This verse clarifies that the suffering of Judah and Jerusalem was not random but directly connected to their choices and actions, as explained by Hezekiah.
  • The verse uses strong words to show the depth of the nation's shame and distress, making it clear that their situation was both public and humiliating.
  • By pointing out that everyone could "see with your eyes," Hezekiah is making the consequences undeniable, preparing the people to understand why change is needed in the following verses.