Old Testament
Isaiah 37:1
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When King Hezekiah heard the report, he tore his clothes, put on sackcloth, and went into the house of the LORD.
Compare translations
And it came to pass, when king Hezekiah heard it, that he rent his clothes, and covered himself with sackcloth, and went into the house of the LORD.
What Isaiah 37:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, King Hezekiah reacts to a distressing report, likely concerning an impending threat to Jerusalem. His tearing of clothes and wearing of sackcloth are traditional signs of mourning and deep sorrow in ancient Israel. By going into the house of the LORD, Hezekiah demonstrates his reliance on God during a time of crisis. This act signifies his humility and recognition of the need for divine intervention. Hezekiah's response reflects a leader who understands the gravity of the situation and seeks God's guidance and help. The act of tearing clothes and donning sackcloth is not just a personal expression of grief but also a communal call to repentance and prayer, indicating that he is not only concerned for himself but for the entire nation. This moment sets the stage for further actions that Hezekiah will take in seeking God's favor and protection against the threats facing his kingdom.
How to apply Isaiah 37:1 to your life
When faced with overwhelming challenges, we can learn from Hezekiah's example to turn to God in prayer and humility. Expressing our sorrow and seeking divine guidance can help us navigate difficult situations. Remember to rely on faith during tough times.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah 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.
Illustrated scene from Isaiah's story: The LORD Defends Jerusalem (Isaiah 37:1–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Isaiah
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 PlansAsk AI about Isaiah 37:1
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 Isaiah 37:1
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 37:1 mean?
Isaiah 37:1 describes King Hezekiah's reaction to a troubling report about Jerusalem's safety. His actions of tearing his clothes and wearing sackcloth symbolize deep sorrow and a plea for God's help during a crisis.
What is the significance of sackcloth in Isaiah 37:1?
Sackcloth in Isaiah 37:1 represents mourning and humility. It was traditionally worn to express grief and a desire for repentance, indicating Hezekiah's serious approach to the impending threat.
Why did Hezekiah go into the house of the LORD in Isaiah 37:1?
Hezekiah went into the house of the LORD to seek divine guidance and intervention. This act shows his reliance on God during a time of crisis and his recognition of the need for spiritual support.
What does tearing clothes symbolize in Isaiah 37:1?
Tearing clothes in Isaiah 37:1 symbolizes deep distress and mourning. It reflects Hezekiah's emotional response to the grave situation facing Jerusalem and his call for communal repentance.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.