Old Testament
Isaiah 37:34
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He will go back the same way he came. He will not enter this city,' declares the LORD.
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By the way that he came, by the same shall he return, and shall not come into this city, saith the LORD.
What Isaiah 37:34 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 37:34, God assures His people that their enemy will not succeed in attacking Jerusalem. The verse emphasizes that the king of Assyria will retreat the same way he came, indicating that he will not enter the city. This declaration from the LORD serves as a powerful reminder of His sovereignty and protection over His people. The context of this verse is during a time of great distress for Jerusalem, where the Assyrian army posed a significant threat. God’s promise of deliverance reassures the people that despite the overwhelming odds, He is in control and will defend them. This message of hope is crucial for the Israelites, as it reinforces their faith in God’s ability to protect and save them from their enemies. The verse highlights the futility of opposing God’s will and the certainty of His promises, providing comfort and encouragement to those who trust in Him.
How to apply Isaiah 37:34 to your life
In our lives, we may face overwhelming challenges that seem insurmountable. This verse reminds us to trust in God's protection and sovereignty. When we feel threatened or afraid, we can find comfort in knowing that God is in control and will guide us through our difficulties, just as He did for Jerusalem.
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 37:34 mean?
Isaiah 37:34 means that God is assuring His people that the Assyrian king will not succeed in attacking Jerusalem. He will retreat the same way he came, signifying God's protection over the city.
What is the significance of the phrase 'by the way that he came' in Isaiah 37:34?
The phrase 'by the way that he came' signifies that the Assyrian king will not enter Jerusalem, emphasizing God's control over the situation and His promise of deliverance for His people.
How does Isaiah 37:34 provide hope in difficult times?
Isaiah 37:34 provides hope by reminding believers that God is sovereign and will protect them from overwhelming challenges, just as He did for Jerusalem during a time of distress.
What themes are present in Isaiah 37:34?
The themes present in Isaiah 37:34 include divine protection, the sovereignty of God, faith in adversity, the promise of deliverance, and hope during troubling times.
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