Old Testament
2 Kings 19:21
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, God is speaking about a powerful enemy who has been mocking His people.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
Here is what the LORD has declared about him: The virgin daughter of Zion despises you and laughs you to scorn; the daughter of Jerusalem shakes her head at you.
This is the word that the LORD hath spoken concerning him; The virgin the daughter of Zion hath despised thee, and laughed thee to scorn; the daughter of Jerusalem hath shaken her head at thee.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is speaking about a powerful enemy who has been mocking His people. The 'virgin daughter of Zion' represents Jerusalem, a city that is strong and pure. God is saying that this city looks down on the enemy, laughing at their threats. The imagery of shaking heads shows disdain and confidence. It’s a powerful reminder that God protects His people and that their enemies will ultimately be humiliated. This declaration emphasizes that no matter how intimidating an enemy may seem, they are powerless against God’s will. The laughter and scorn from Zion symbolize hope and strength for those who trust in God. It reassures us that God stands with us against our challenges, and we can find comfort in His protection and support. This verse encourages us to remain steadfast in faith, knowing that God is on our side, and that He will bring justice against those who oppose us. We can take heart, for God sees our struggles and will respond in our defense, bringing victory in His time.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 19:21 to your life
When facing challenges or opposition, remember that God is with you. Like Jerusalem, you can stand strong and confident, knowing that your struggles are seen by God. Trust in His protection and find comfort in His promises. Your faith can turn fear into laughter and scorn against your challenges, just as Zion did against its enemies. Stay steadfast in your belief and watch for God's deliverance in your life. You are not alone.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Kings 19:21 mean?
2 Kings 19:21 conveys God's message that Jerusalem, represented as the 'virgin daughter of Zion,' looks down on its powerful enemy with disdain. It emphasizes God's protection over His people and their ultimate victory over threats.
What is the meaning of 'virgin daughter of Zion' in 2 Kings 19:21?
The phrase 'virgin daughter of Zion' refers to Jerusalem, symbolizing its purity and strength. It indicates that the city stands confidently against its enemies, showing that God defends His people.
How does 2 Kings 19:21 relate to God's protection?
In 2 Kings 19:21, God's declaration shows that He protects His people, as Jerusalem mocks its enemy. This illustrates that no matter how powerful an adversary may seem, they are ultimately powerless against God's will.
What themes are present in 2 Kings 19:21?
Key themes in 2 Kings 19:21 include God's protection over His people, the mockery of their enemies, the strength found in faith, hope for deliverance, and the assurance of divine justice.
The Book of 2 Kings
2 Kings 1: Elijah’s Final Prophecy
The book of 2 Kings opens with the reign of Ahaziah, Ahab’s son and successor, who continues his father’s wicked ways. After falling through a lattice in his upper chamber, Ahaziah is seriously injured. Instead of inquiring of the Lord of Israel, he sends messengers to inquire of Baal-zebub, the god of Ekron, whether he will recover. The prophet Elijah is sent by an angel to intercept the messengers. He confronts them with the question, “Is it not because there is not a God in Israel, that ye go to enquire of Baal-zebub the god of Ekron?” and delivers a message of judgment: Ahaziah will not recover but will surely die.
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