2 Kings 19:27 (KJV)

What does 2 Kings 19:27 mean?

2 Kings 19:27 means that God is telling the king of Assyria that He knows everything about him—where he lives, when he leaves and returns, and even his anger against God. This verse shows God’s complete awareness of the king’s actions and attitude.

In this passage, God is speaking through the prophet Isaiah to Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, who has been threatening Jerusalem. God’s message is that nothing about Sennacherib is hidden from Him—not his daily movements, his plans, or his hostile feelings. The verse emphasizes God’s intimate knowledge and authority over even the most powerful rulers.

The Hebrew behind 2 Kings 19:27

• "know" (יָדַע, yada‘): This word means more than just being aware; it often carries the sense of deep, personal knowledge. Here, it highlights that God’s understanding of Sennacherib is thorough and complete.
• "abode" (שָׁבֶת, shevet): This word refers to where someone lives or settles. God is saying He knows Sennacherib’s home base or headquarters, not just his public actions.
• "out" (יָצָא, yatsa’): This word means to go out, often used for leaving a place for a purpose. God is aware of Sennacherib’s departures, whether for battle or other plans.
• "in" (בּוֹא, bo’): This word means to come in or enter. God knows not only when Sennacherib leaves but also when he returns.
• "rage" (רָגַז, ragaz): This word means to be agitated, angry, or enraged. God is aware of Sennacherib’s emotional state, especially his anger directed at God.

Why 2 Kings 19:27 matters

• This verse corrects any idea that powerful leaders can act without God noticing; it stresses God’s total awareness and sovereignty.
• The verse sets up the reason for God’s coming judgment against Sennacherib, showing that God’s response is based on full knowledge of the king’s actions and motives.
• It connects to the larger story by reassuring the people of Jerusalem that God is not distant or unaware of their enemy’s threats—He sees and knows everything.