Old Testament
Isaiah 38:21
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Now Isaiah had instructed them, "Take a cake of pressed figs and apply it as a poultice to the boil, and he will recover."
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For Isaiah had said, Let them take a lump of figs, and lay it for a plaister upon the boil, and he shall recover.
What Isaiah 38:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the prophet Isaiah gives specific instructions on how to treat a boil, which is a painful skin infection. He tells the people to take a cake of pressed figs and use it as a poultice, a type of medicinal dressing. This simple remedy is significant because it shows that God cares about our physical well-being as well as our spiritual health. The act of applying the poultice symbolizes the importance of taking practical steps in healing, alongside faith in God's power to restore. The verse highlights the connection between divine intervention and human action, illustrating that while God can perform miracles, He often uses ordinary means to bring about healing and recovery. This moment also reassures the afflicted that recovery is possible, emphasizing hope and the importance of following wise counsel in times of distress.
How to apply Isaiah 38:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek both spiritual and practical solutions when facing challenges. It reminds us that God can work through ordinary means, like medicine or advice from others, to bring healing and recovery. Trusting in God while taking action is essential.
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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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 38:21 mean?
Isaiah 38:21 describes the prophet Isaiah instructing people to use a poultice made of pressed figs to treat a boil. This verse illustrates God's concern for both physical and spiritual health, showing that healing can come through practical means.
What is the significance of figs in Isaiah 38:21?
In Isaiah 38:21, figs are used as a natural remedy for healing. Their mention highlights the idea that God can use ordinary items to facilitate recovery, emphasizing the connection between faith and practical actions.
What does the term 'poultice' mean in Isaiah 38:21?
A 'poultice' in Isaiah 38:21 refers to a soft, moist mass applied to the body to relieve soreness or inflammation. It signifies the use of practical remedies for healing, alongside faith in God's power.
How does Isaiah 38:21 relate to healing today?
Isaiah 38:21 encourages us to seek both spiritual and practical solutions for healing. It reminds us that God can work through ordinary means, like medicine, to bring about recovery.
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