Old Testament

2 Kings 19:35

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ClearClear Bible Translation

That very night, the angel of the LORD went out and struck down 185,000 soldiers in the Assyrian camp. When the survivors woke at dawn, they found nothing but dead bodies everywhere.

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KJVKing James Version

And it came to pass that night, that the angel of the LORD went out, and smote in the camp of the Assyrians an hundred fourscore and five thousand: and when they arose early in the morning, behold, they were all dead corpses.

What 2 Kings 19:35 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In a dramatic turn of events, the angel of the LORD intervened during a critical moment for the people of Judah. That night, he struck down 185,000 Assyrian soldiers, showcasing the power of divine protection. When the sun rose, the survivors were met with a shocking sight: countless dead bodies scattered across the camp. This event served as a clear reminder of the consequences of opposing God’s will. The Assyrians, who had threatened Jerusalem, were rendered powerless overnight. This moment not only demonstrated God’s might but also reassured the people of Judah that they were not alone in their struggles. It was a pivotal moment that highlighted faith and reliance on divine help in times of crisis. The story encourages us to trust in a higher power, especially when facing overwhelming odds. It reminds us that sometimes, help comes in unexpected ways, and we should remain hopeful even in dire situations. The aftermath of this event left a lasting impact on the history of Judah and the surrounding nations.

How to apply 2 Kings 19:35 to your life

When facing challenges that seem insurmountable, remember that you are not alone. Just as the people of Judah found strength in their faith, you can draw on your beliefs for support. Trust that help can come in unexpected ways, and stay hopeful in difficult times. Your faith can guide you through any storm you encounter in life. Keep believing in the power of resilience and divine support as you navigate your journey forward.

Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary

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A painting of Isaiah meeting the king's officials and the elders, dressed in rough sackcloth, in a street of Jerusalem

Illustrated scene from Isaiah's story: The LORD Defends Jerusalem (2 Kings 19:1–37)

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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.

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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.

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At a Glance — the Book of 2 Kings

Author
Author unknown; possibly Jeremiah
Written
Around 560 BC
Genre
Historical narrative
Original Audience
Exiled Israelites in Babylon

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does 2 Kings 19:35 mean?

2 Kings 19:35 describes a miraculous event where the angel of the LORD struck down 185,000 Assyrian soldiers in one night, demonstrating God's power and protection over Judah during a time of crisis.

What is the significance of the angel of the LORD in 2 Kings 19:35?

The angel of the LORD represents divine intervention, acting on behalf of God's people to protect them from their enemies, highlighting the theme of faith and reliance on God's help.

What does the number 185,000 signify in 2 Kings 19:35?

The number 185,000 signifies the vastness of the Assyrian army that was defeated overnight, illustrating the overwhelming power of God in delivering His people from seemingly impossible situations.

How does 2 Kings 19:35 relate to hope in difficult times?

2 Kings 19:35 serves as a reminder that even in dire situations, help can come unexpectedly, encouraging believers to maintain hope and trust in God's ability to deliver them from their struggles.

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