Question 1

What does 2 Kings 20:6 mean?

Accepted Answer

2 Kings 20:6 records God’s promise to King Hezekiah that He will extend Hezekiah’s life by fifteen years, deliver both Hezekiah and Jerusalem from the Assyrian king, and protect the city for God’s own sake and because of His promise to David. This verse highlights God’s direct intervention in response to Hezekiah’s prayer and His ongoing commitment to Jerusalem and the Davidic line. In this scene, the prophet Isaiah is delivering God’s message to King Hezekiah, who has been gravely ill and has prayed for healing. God not only grants Hezekiah more years but also assures him of protection from the powerful Assyrian threat. The verse ties God’s actions to His faithfulness to David, emphasizing that God’s promises and purposes for Jerusalem are still in effect.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind 2 Kings 20:6

Accepted Answer

"Add" (יָסַף, yasaf): This word means to increase or prolong. Here, it shows that God is not just healing Hezekiah but specifically extending his life by a set number of years. "Deliver" (נָצַל, natsal): This verb means to snatch away or rescue. God’s promise to "deliver" Hezekiah and the city stresses a dramatic rescue from real danger, not just a general blessing. "Defend" (גָּנַן, ganan): This word means to protect or shield. God’s commitment to "defend" Jerusalem points to active, ongoing protection, not just a one-time intervention. "For my servant David’s sake" (דָּוִד, David): Mentioning David connects this promise to the covenant God made with David, underlining that God’s actions are rooted in His faithfulness to past promises.

Question 3

Why 2 Kings 20:6 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse clarifies that God’s help for Hezekiah is not only personal but also national, tied to the fate of Jerusalem and the larger story of Israel. The mention of David shows that God’s promises are long-lasting and not dependent only on the current king’s faithfulness. The verse connects Hezekiah’s healing and Jerusalem’s deliverance, showing that God’s care for individuals and for His people as a whole are closely linked.

2 Kings 20:6 (KJV)