Isaiah 38:21 (KJV)

What does Isaiah 38:21 mean?

Isaiah 38:21 describes the prophet Isaiah instructing that a lump of figs should be applied as a poultice to King Hezekiah’s boil so that he would recover from his illness. The verse shows a practical remedy being given alongside God’s promise of healing.

In this scene, Isaiah is speaking to those caring for King Hezekiah, who was seriously ill. The instruction to use figs as a plaster connects the healing process to a physical treatment, even though the recovery is ultimately attributed to God’s intervention. This verse highlights the use of ordinary means in the midst of a miraculous event.

The Hebrew behind Isaiah 38:21

• "lump" (דְּבֶלֶת, develet): This word refers to a pressed cake or mass, here specifically of figs. It points to a common ancient remedy, showing the use of everyday resources in healing.
• "figs" (תְּאֵנָה, te'enah): Figs were known in the ancient world for their medicinal properties, especially for treating skin conditions. The mention of figs grounds the story in real historical practices.
• "plaister" (מִרְחֶשֶׁת, mircheshet): This word means a poultice or plaster, something spread on a wound or sore. It emphasizes the physical, hands-on aspect of the treatment.
• "boil" (שְׁחִין, shechin): This term refers to an inflamed sore or ulcer, often seen as a serious illness in the ancient world. Naming the condition makes the healing more concrete and relatable.

Why Isaiah 38:21 matters

• Isaiah 38:21 clarifies that God’s healing can work through ordinary, physical means, not just through supernatural acts.
• The verse connects the story to real-world medical practices of the time, grounding the narrative in history rather than legend.
• It helps explain the sequence of events in Isaiah 38, showing that Hezekiah’s recovery involved both divine promise and practical action.