2 Chronicles 32:21
And the LORD sent an angel, which cut off all the mighty men of valour, and the leaders and captains in the camp of the king of Assyria. So he returned with shame of face to his own land. And when he was come into the house of his god, they that came forth of his own bowels slew him there with the sword.
2 Chronicles 32:21 · King James Version
Meaning
Here, the verse describes a significant event in the historical context of the Bible, specifically in the narrative of the king of Assyria. It illustrates the consequences of his actions in going up against the Lord, as he and his army experience defeat at the hands of an angel sent by God. The defeat results in the destruction of the powerful warriors, leaders, and captains of the Assyrian camp, causing the king of Assyria to return to his land in shame. The verse further reveals how the king meets his demise at the hands of his own sons in his own house after returning from his failed conquest. This account serves as a demonstration of the power and authority of God, showcasing how those who stand against Him will ultimately face defeat and destruction. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of defying God and the importance of obedience and humility in relation to His will.
Theological Overview
In this verse from 2 Chronicles 32:21, we see a powerful demonstration of divine intervention by the LORD. The angel sent by God not only cut off all the mighty men of valor, leaders, and captains in the camp of the king of Assyria but also caused the king to return to his own land in shame. The theological interpretation of this event highlights the sovereignty of God and His ability to protect His people and defeat their enemies. The word "angel" in this context refers to a powerful, supernatural being sent by God to fulfill His purposes. The word "shame" underscores the humiliation and defeat suffered by the king of Assyria upon his return to his homeland. This passage serves as a reminder of the consequences of opposing God and His chosen people, as seen in the ultimate fate of the king of Assyria at the hands of his own offspring upon his return to his house of worship.
2 Chronicles 32:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
And Jehovah sent an angel, who cut off all the mighty men of valor, and the leaders and captains, in the camp of the king of Assyria. So he returned with shame of face to his own land. And when he was come into the house of his god, they that came forth from his own bowels slew him there with the sword.
World English Bible
Yahweh sent an angel, who cut off all the mighty men of valor, and the leaders and captains, in the camp of the king of Assyria. So he returned with shame of face to his own land. When he had come into the house of his god, those who came out of his own bowels killed him there with the sword.
Douay-Rheims
And the Lord sent an angel, who cut off all the stout men and the warriors, and the captains of the army of the king of the Assyrians: and he returned with disgrace into his own country. And when he was come into the house of his god, his sons that came out of his bowels, slew him with the sword.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the Lord sent an Angel which destroyed all the valiant men, and the princes and captaines of the hoste of the King of Asshur: so he returned with shame to his owne lande. And when he was come into the house of his god, they that came foorth of his owne bowels, slewe him there with the sworde.