Old Testament
Isaiah 36:16
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Do not listen to Hezekiah, for this is what the king of Assyria says: 'Make an agreement with me by giving a gift, and come out to me. Then each of you will eat from his own vine and fig tree and drink water from his own cistern.'
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Hearken not to Hezekiah: for thus saith the king of Assyria, Make an agreement with me by a present, and come out to me: and eat ye every one of his vine, and every one of his fig tree, and drink ye every one the waters of his own cistern;
What Isaiah 36:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the king of Assyria is trying to persuade the people of Jerusalem not to listen to their king, Hezekiah. He offers them a tempting deal: if they surrender and make an agreement with him, they will be able to enjoy the comforts of their own homes, including eating from their own vines and fig trees and drinking from their own cisterns. This appeal is meant to create doubt and fear among the people, suggesting that surrendering to Assyria would lead to a better life than resisting. The Assyrian king is using manipulation and promises of security to undermine Hezekiah's leadership and encourage rebellion against him. This moment highlights the tension between faith in God and the allure of worldly security offered by powerful nations.
How to apply Isaiah 36:16 to your life
This verse reminds us to be cautious of tempting offers that promise security at the cost of our values or faith. In times of uncertainty, we should seek guidance from our beliefs and leaders rather than succumbing to fear or manipulation from outside forces.
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At a Glance — the Book of Isaiah
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 36:16 mean?
Isaiah 36:16 shows the king of Assyria trying to persuade the people of Jerusalem to abandon their king, Hezekiah, by offering them a false sense of security and comfort if they surrender. He promises that they will enjoy the benefits of their own homes if they agree to his terms.
What is the significance of the king of Assyria's offer in Isaiah 36:16?
The king of Assyria's offer in Isaiah 36:16 is significant because it highlights the manipulation and fear tactics used by powerful nations to undermine faith and loyalty. It illustrates the temptation to choose worldly security over trust in God.
What does the phrase 'eat from his own vine and fig tree' mean in Isaiah 36:16?
The phrase 'eat from his own vine and fig tree' in Isaiah 36:16 symbolizes personal comfort and security. It suggests that the Assyrian king is promising the people a return to their normal lives if they surrender, appealing to their desire for stability.
How does Isaiah 36:16 relate to themes of faith and fear?
Isaiah 36:16 relates to themes of faith and fear by contrasting the people's faith in God and their king, Hezekiah, with the fear instilled by the Assyrian king's threats and promises. It serves as a reminder of the struggle between trusting in divine protection and succumbing to fear of powerful adversaries.
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