Old Testament
Isaiah 37:30
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"'And this will be the sign for you, Hezekiah: This year you'll eat whatever grows on its own. The second year, you'll eat what sprouts from that. But in the third year, you'll sow and harvest, plant vineyards, and eat their fruit.
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And this shall be a sign unto thee, Ye shall eat this year such as groweth of itself; and the second year that which springeth of the same: and in the third year sow ye, and reap, and plant vineyards, and eat the fruit thereof.
What Isaiah 37:30 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 37:30, God gives King Hezekiah a sign of hope during a time of crisis. The message indicates that for the first year, the people will survive on what grows naturally, which signifies a time of scarcity. In the second year, they will eat what sprouts from the previous year's growth, showing gradual improvement. By the third year, they will be able to sow seeds, harvest crops, and enjoy the fruits of their labor, indicating a return to normalcy and abundance. This progression from survival to prosperity illustrates God's promise of restoration and His faithfulness to provide for His people, even in difficult times. The sign serves as reassurance that despite the current challenges, there is a future filled with hope and plenty. It emphasizes the importance of patience and faith in God's timing, as He works to bring about renewal and blessing.
How to apply Isaiah 37:30 to your life
In times of struggle, remember that God provides for our needs, even when circumstances seem dire. Trust in His timing and be patient as you wait for restoration. Look for small signs of improvement and remain faithful in your efforts, knowing that abundance will come.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Isaiah's story: The LORD Defends Jerusalem (Isaiah 37:1–38)
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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.
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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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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 37:30 mean?
Isaiah 37:30 conveys God's promise to King Hezekiah that during a time of crisis, the people will first survive on what grows naturally, then gradually improve, and finally return to normalcy by planting and harvesting crops. This verse illustrates God's faithfulness and the hope for restoration.
What is the significance of the third year in Isaiah 37:30?
The third year in Isaiah 37:30 signifies a turning point where the people will be able to sow seeds, harvest, and enjoy the fruits of their labor, indicating a complete restoration and abundance after a period of scarcity.
What does 'eat whatever grows on its own' mean in Isaiah 37:30?
The phrase 'eat whatever grows on its own' in Isaiah 37:30 refers to a time of survival where the people rely on what naturally occurs in their environment, symbolizing a period of hardship before eventual recovery and prosperity.
How does Isaiah 37:30 relate to hope and restoration?
Isaiah 37:30 relates to hope and restoration by showing a progression from survival to abundance, reassuring the people that despite current difficulties, God will provide for their needs and restore their situation over time.
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