2 Chronicles 32:3 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 32:3 mean?

2 Chronicles 32:3 describes how King Hezekiah consulted with his officials and strong warriors to block off the water sources outside Jerusalem, and they supported his plan. The verse shows a practical step taken by Hezekiah and his leaders to protect the city from an enemy threat.

Hezekiah is the king of Judah, and he is facing an invasion from the Assyrian king Sennacherib. To prepare for the siege, Hezekiah gathers advice from his leading men and decides to cut off the water supply outside the city, making it harder for the enemy army to find water. This verse highlights the teamwork and strategic planning involved in defending Jerusalem.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 32:3

• "Counsel" (יָעַץ, ya‘ats): This word means to consult or deliberate together. The verse emphasizes that Hezekiah did not act alone but sought advice from his leaders.
• "Princes" (שַׂר, sar): This term refers to high-ranking officials or leaders, showing that Hezekiah involved trusted authorities in his decision.
• "Stop" (סָתַם, satam): This word means to block, shut up, or stop something. Here, it refers to physically blocking the water sources, a deliberate act to hinder the enemy.
• "Fountains" (עַיִן, ‘ayin): Literally "eye," but often used for a spring or fountain of water. The verse is talking about natural water sources outside the city walls.

Why 2 Chronicles 32:3 matters

• The verse clarifies that Hezekiah's response to danger was not just spiritual but also practical, involving careful planning and teamwork.
• It shows the importance of wise leadership and collective decision-making in times of crisis, rather than relying on one person's judgment alone.
• This action sets the stage for the rest of the chapter, where Hezekiah's preparations play a key role in Jerusalem's survival against the Assyrian siege.