Old Testament
2 Kings 19:29
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this passage, God provides King Hezekiah with a reassuring sign during a time of distress.
- Author
- Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 560 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- Exiled Israelites in Babylon
"And this will be the sign for you, Hezekiah: This year you will eat whatever grows on its own. In the 2nd year, you'll eat what springs up from that. But in the 3rd year, you will plant and harvest, tend vineyards and eat their fruit.
And this shall be a sign unto thee, Ye shall eat this year such things as grow of themselves, and in the second year that which springeth of the same; and in the third year sow ye, and reap, and plant vineyards, and eat the fruits thereof.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God provides King Hezekiah with a reassuring sign during a time of distress. He tells Hezekiah that in the first year, the people will eat what grows naturally without any labor. In the second year, they will enjoy what sprouts from the ground. By the third year, they will be able to plant their own crops, harvest them, and savor the fruits of their labor. This progression illustrates a journey from dependence on immediate provision to the ability to cultivate and sustain themselves. It symbolizes a promise of restoration and abundance following a period of hardship. God is demonstrating that even in challenging times, there is a plan for growth and renewal. The message is clear: patience and faith lead to a fruitful future. Hezekiah and his people are encouraged to trust in God's timing and provision, knowing that brighter days are on the horizon. This assurance can inspire us to remain hopeful during our own trials, recognizing that growth often requires time and effort, but it will ultimately come.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 2 Kings 19:29 to your life
When facing difficult times, remember that growth takes time. Just as Hezekiah was promised a future of abundance, we too can trust that our struggles can lead to better days. Stay patient and maintain faith in the process of renewal and restoration in your life. Your efforts will bear fruit in due time, so keep moving forward with hope and determination. Every season has its purpose and potential for growth, even when it feels challenging.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 2 Kings 19:29 mean?
2 Kings 19:29 conveys God's promise to King Hezekiah that during a time of distress, the people will experience a gradual restoration. In the first year, they will eat what grows naturally, in the second year what sprouts, and by the third year, they will be able to plant and harvest their own crops.
What is the significance of the third year in 2 Kings 19:29?
The third year in 2 Kings 19:29 signifies a turning point where the people transition from relying on God's immediate provision to actively cultivating their own resources. It symbolizes a return to normalcy and self-sufficiency after a period of hardship.
What does 'you will eat whatever grows on its own' mean in 2 Kings 19:29?
The phrase 'you will eat whatever grows on its own' in 2 Kings 19:29 indicates that during the first year, the people will have access to food without needing to plant or labor. This reflects God's provision during difficult times.
How can I apply the message of 2 Kings 19:29 to my life?
You can apply the message of 2 Kings 19:29 by being patient during difficult times and trusting that your struggles can lead to growth and better days. Remember that progress takes time, and maintaining faith in the process can lead to fruitful outcomes.
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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