2 Kings 19:29
And this shall be a sign unto thee, Ye shall eat this year such things as grow of themselves, and in the second year that which springeth of the same; and in the third year sow ye, and reap, and plant vineyards, and eat the fruits thereof.
2 Kings 19:29 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse, found in the book of Isaiah, serves as a promise from God to the people of Judah. It was given during a time of hardship and impending exile, as reassurance that God would provide for them even in the midst of difficulties. The verse outlines a plan for their sustenance over a three-year period; in the first year, they would rely on what grows naturally, in the second year they would eat what springs up from the same, and finally in the third year they would be able to sow, reap, and enjoy the fruits of their labor once again. This verse speaks to the cyclical nature of life and faith, showing that even in times of scarcity, there is hope for abundance in the future. It serves as a reminder to trust in God's provision and timing, even when circumstances seem bleak.
Theological Overview
This verse from Isaiah 37:30 is a promise from God to King Hezekiah as a sign of His faithfulness and providence. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes God's sovereignty and His ability to provide for His people in times of need. The phrase "eat this year such things as grow of themselves" signifies a period of reliance on God's provision without human effort, highlighting the importance of trusting in God's timing and provision. The progression from eating what grows naturally, to planting vineyards and eating the fruits thereof in the third year, symbolizes a cycle of renewal and abundance that comes from obedience and faith. This verse teaches us to trust in God's faithfulness and provision, even in times of uncertainty and difficulty.
2 Kings 19:29 in other translations
American Standard Version
And this shall be the sign unto thee: Ye shall eat this year that which groweth of itself, and in 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.
World English Bible
“‘This shall be the sign to you: You shall eat this year that which grows of itself, and in the second year that which springs of the same; and in the third year sow, and reap, and plant vineyards, and eat its fruit.
Douay-Rheims
And to thee, O Ezechias, this shall be a sign: Eat this year what thou shalt find: and in the second year, such things as spring of themselves: but in the third year sow and reap: plant vineyards, and eat the fruit of them.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And this shalbe a signe vnto thee, O Hezekiah, Thou shalt eate this yeere such things as growe of them selues, and the next yeere such as growe without sowing, and the third yeere sowe ye and reape, and plant vineyardes, and eate the fruites thereof.