Old Testament

2 Kings 19:7

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

I am going to put a spirit of fear in him. He will hear a report that sends him rushing back to his own country, and there I will have him cut down by the sword.'"

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

Behold, I will send a blast upon him, and he shall hear a rumour, and shall return to his own land; and I will cause him to fall by the sword in his own land.

What 2 Kings 19:7 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, God is declaring His plan to instill fear in the heart of the enemy king. This fear will come from hearing a report that will make him retreat to his homeland. God assures that this king will not escape unscathed; instead, he will meet his end by the sword in his own land. This shows God's control over the situation and His ability to turn the tide against those who threaten His people. The message is clear: no matter how powerful an enemy may seem, they are ultimately under God's authority. He can orchestrate events to ensure that justice prevails. This verse serves as a reminder that God is actively involved in the affairs of nations and individuals alike, guiding outcomes according to His will. It encourages believers to trust in God's power to protect and deliver them from harm, even when circumstances appear dire. God’s intervention can change everything, and His plans will come to fruition, bringing peace to those who rely on Him for safety and strength.

How to apply 2 Kings 19:7 to your life

When facing challenges or threats, remember that God is in control. Trust that He can turn situations around for your good. Instead of succumbing to fear, lean on your faith and seek His guidance. God’s plans for you are always for your protection and well-being, even in tough times. Stay hopeful and resilient in His promises.  “God is with you.”   “Trust Him.”   “Stay strong.”   “Believe.”   “Have faith.”   “Be courageous.”   “Keep going.”

Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

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)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Isaiah

An old color photograph of Hebron on a hillside above olive groves.

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.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Hebron

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

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about 2 Kings 19:7

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying 2 Kings 19:7

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 19:7 mean?

In 2 Kings 19:7, God declares that He will instill fear in the enemy king, causing him to retreat to his homeland. This verse emphasizes God's control over the situation and His ability to ensure justice by declaring that the king will ultimately be defeated by the sword in his own land.

What is the meaning of 'spirit of fear' in 2 Kings 19:7?

The 'spirit of fear' in 2 Kings 19:7 refers to the overwhelming sense of dread that God will place in the heart of the enemy king. This fear will drive him to flee back to his country, illustrating God's power to manipulate emotions and outcomes in favor of His people.

How does 2 Kings 19:7 show God's protection?

2 Kings 19:7 shows God's protection by demonstrating that He can instill fear in enemies, leading them to retreat. It reassures believers that God is actively involved in their safety and can turn dire situations around.

What themes are present in 2 Kings 19:7?

The themes in 2 Kings 19:7 include God's control over nations, the concept of fear as a tool for divine intervention, justice against oppressors, and the assurance of protection for His people.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.