Old Testament

Isaiah 37:3

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, King Hezekiah expresses deep distress over the dire situation facing Judah.

Author: Isaiah the prophet
Written: Around 700 BC
Genre: Prophecy
Original Audience: Judah and the surrounding nations

CBTClear Bible Translation

They told him, "Hezekiah says: 'Today is a day of trouble, rebuke, and blasphemy, for the children have come to the point of birth, but there is no strength to deliver them.'"

KJVKing James Version

And they said unto him, Thus saith Hezekiah, This day is a day of trouble, and of rebuke, and of blasphemy: for the children are come to the birth, and there is not strength to bring forth.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, King Hezekiah expresses deep distress over the dire situation facing Judah. He uses the metaphor of childbirth to illustrate the urgency and helplessness of their predicament. Just as a mother experiences intense pain and effort during labor, the people of Judah are in a critical moment of crisis. However, unlike childbirth, they lack the strength to deliver themselves from their troubles. This reflects a moment of vulnerability and desperation, highlighting the need for divine intervention. Hezekiah acknowledges the severity of their circumstances, which include trouble, rebuke, and blasphemy, indicating that they are not only facing physical threats but also spiritual challenges. The verse captures the essence of human limitations in the face of overwhelming odds, emphasizing the importance of seeking help from God in times of crisis.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Isaiah 37:3 to your life

In times of trouble, we may feel overwhelmed and powerless, just like Hezekiah. This verse reminds us to acknowledge our limitations and seek God's help. When facing challenges, turn to prayer and trust in God's strength to deliver you from difficult situations.

Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Isaiah 37:3 mean?

Isaiah 37:3 conveys King Hezekiah's deep distress over Judah's dire situation, using childbirth as a metaphor for their urgent crisis. He expresses that, like a mother in labor, they are in a critical moment but lack the strength to overcome their troubles, highlighting their vulnerability and need for divine help.

What is the significance of the metaphor in Isaiah 37:3?

The metaphor of childbirth in Isaiah 37:3 signifies urgency and helplessness. It illustrates that Judah is facing a critical moment of crisis, where despite the intense struggle, they feel powerless to deliver themselves from their dire circumstances.

What does 'no strength to deliver them' mean in Isaiah 37:3?

The phrase 'no strength to deliver them' in Isaiah 37:3 indicates that the people of Judah feel powerless in their crisis. It reflects their recognition of human limitations and the urgent need for God's assistance in overcoming their challenges.

How can Isaiah 37:3 be applied to modern life?

Isaiah 37:3 can be applied to modern life by reminding us that in times of overwhelming trouble, we should acknowledge our limitations and seek help. It encourages turning to prayer and trusting in God's strength during difficult situations.

Book Summary

The Book of Isaiah

Isaiah 41: Fear Not, I Am With You

The LORD calls the nations to keep silence before him and to renew their strength. He asks who raises up the righteous man from the east and gives nations before him, making him rule over kings. He says he gives them as dust to his sword and as driven stubble to his bow, and he declares he is the first and with the last.

The isles see and fear, and the ends of the earth draw near. Craftsmen encourage one another and strengthen idols with nails so they do not move. The LORD then speaks directly to Israel, calling him his servant, the seed of Abraham his friend. He tells Israel not to fear, for he is with him, and says he strengthens, helps, and upholds him with the right hand of his righteousness. He promises those who contend with Israel are as nothing, makes Israel a new sharp threshing instrument that threshes mountains, and answers the poor and needy by making rivers in high places and fountains in valleys. Isaiah 42: Behold My Servant The LORD presents his servant, whom he upholds and in whom his soul delights. He says he puts his spirit upon him and that he brings forth judgment to the Gentiles, not crying or lifting up his voice in the streets, and not breaking a bruised reed. The LORD says he calls him in righteousness, holds his hand, keeps him, and gives him for a covenant of the people and a light of the Gentiles. The LORD declares his glory he does not give to another nor his praise to graven images. He speaks of new things before they spring forth and calls for a new song from the ends of the earth. The chapter describes the LORD going forth as a mighty man and crying out against his enemies. It describes a people robbed and spoiled, snared in holes, yet not saying, “Restore,” and it says they do not lay it to heart. The LORD pours upon them fury of his anger and the strength of battle, yet they do not know or consider.

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