Old Testament
2 Kings 20:7
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Isaiah said, "Take a lump of figs." So they took it and laid it on the boil, and he recovered.
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And Isaiah said, Take a lump of figs. And they took and laid it on the boil, and he recovered.
What 2 Kings 20:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, the prophet Isaiah gives a simple yet effective remedy for King Hezekiah's illness. He instructs the king's servants to take a lump of figs and apply it to the boil on his body. This act of using natural medicine leads to the king's recovery. It highlights the importance of practical solutions in times of crisis. Isaiah's guidance shows that healing can come through both divine intervention and natural means. The king's faith in Isaiah's words and the remedy provided demonstrates a partnership between faith and action. This story reminds us that sometimes, the answers to our problems can be found in straightforward, everyday solutions. It encourages us to seek help and to trust in the process of healing, whether it be through faith, medicine, or both. Ultimately, it illustrates that recovery is possible when we take the right steps, guided by wisdom and support from others around us. This blend of faith and practical action is a powerful lesson for all.
How to apply 2 Kings 20:7 to your life
When facing challenges, remember that solutions can often be simple and practical. Don't hesitate to seek help from others, whether through advice or support. Trust in the process of healing, and be open to both spiritual and practical approaches to your problems. Your recovery may depend on taking action and believing in the support around you. Embrace the journey of healing with faith and determination, knowing that help is available.
Curated for this public verse page. 2 Kings Summary
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Illustrated scene from Isaiah's story: Hezekiah's Illness (2 Kings 20:1–11)
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Isaiah

Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying 2 Kings 20:7
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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 20:7 mean?
2 Kings 20:7 describes how the prophet Isaiah instructed King Hezekiah's servants to apply a lump of figs to his boil, leading to his recovery. This passage illustrates the combination of faith in God's guidance and the use of practical, natural remedies for healing.
What is the significance of figs in 2 Kings 20:7?
In 2 Kings 20:7, figs are used as a natural remedy for King Hezekiah's boil. This signifies the importance of practical solutions and the belief that healing can come through both divine intervention and natural means.
How does 2 Kings 20:7 relate to healing?
2 Kings 20:7 relates to healing by showing that King Hezekiah's recovery came through a natural remedy suggested by Isaiah. It underscores the idea that healing can involve both spiritual faith and practical actions.
What lesson can we learn from 2 Kings 20:7?
From 2 Kings 20:7, we learn that solutions to our problems can often be simple and practical. It encourages us to seek help, trust in the healing process, and recognize the value of both faith and practical actions.
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