Old Testament
Isaiah 38:1
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In those days, Hezekiah became deathly ill. The prophet Isaiah, son of Amoz, came to him and said, "This is what the LORD says: 'Set your house in order, for you will die and not live.'"
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In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came unto him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order: for thou shalt die, and not live.
What Isaiah 38:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see King Hezekiah facing a serious illness that threatens his life. The prophet Isaiah delivers a direct message from God, telling Hezekiah to prepare for his death. This moment is significant as it highlights the reality of mortality and the importance of being ready for the end of life. Hezekiah is urged to set his house in order, which implies taking care of personal affairs, making amends, and ensuring that his legacy is secure. This message serves as a reminder that life is fragile and that we should live with intention, making sure our relationships and responsibilities are in good standing. The urgency of the message from God through Isaiah emphasizes the need for self-reflection and preparation for what lies ahead, both in terms of physical health and spiritual readiness.
How to apply Isaiah 38:1 to your life
This verse encourages us to evaluate our lives and relationships regularly. We should take time to address unresolved issues, strengthen our connections with loved ones, and ensure that we are living in alignment with our values. Being prepared can bring peace and clarity.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Isaiah's story: Hezekiah's Illness (Isaiah 38:1–22)
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Isaiah
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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Key themes
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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 38:1 mean?
Isaiah 38:1 describes King Hezekiah's serious illness and the prophet Isaiah delivering a message from God, instructing Hezekiah to prepare for his death. This verse emphasizes the reality of mortality and the importance of setting one's affairs in order.
What is the significance of 'set your house in order' in Isaiah 38:1?
The phrase 'set your house in order' in Isaiah 38:1 signifies the need for Hezekiah to address personal matters, make amends, and ensure his legacy is secure before his impending death. It serves as a reminder for everyone to prepare for life's end.
Who is the prophet mentioned in Isaiah 38:1?
The prophet mentioned in Isaiah 38:1 is Isaiah, the son of Amoz. He delivers a crucial message from God to King Hezekiah about his illness and impending death.
What lessons can we learn from Isaiah 38:1?
Isaiah 38:1 teaches us about the fragility of life and the importance of being prepared for death. It encourages self-reflection, addressing unresolved issues, and ensuring that our relationships and responsibilities are in good standing.
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