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Isaiah 36:8

Now therefore give pledges, I pray thee, to my master the king of Assyria, and I will give thee two thousand horses, if thou be able on thy part to set riders upon them.

Isaiah 36:8 · King James Version

Meaning

The verse "Now therefore give pledges, I pray thee, to my master the king of Assyria, and I will give thee two thousand horses, if thou be able on thy part to set riders upon them." is from the book of Isaiah in the Bible. In this verse, the king of Assyria is demanding pledges from Judah in exchange for horses. The king is essentially asking for assurance or security that Judah will fulfill their end of the bargain. The king of Assyria is offering a significant reward of two thousand horses, but only if Judah can prove that they have the ability to utilize them by providing riders. This verse highlights the political dynamics and power struggles during that time, as well as the importance of demonstrating capability and commitment in negotiations and agreements.

Theological Overview

The verse 'Now therefore give pledges, I pray thee, to my master the king of Assyria, and I will give thee two thousand horses, if thou be able on thy part to set riders upon them.' found in 2 Kings 18:23 portrays a request for loyalty and allegiance from the king of Assyria towards Hezekiah, the King of Judah. In this verse, the king of Assyria asks for pledges or assurances from Hezekiah to prove his loyalty before offering him two thousand horses. This request highlights the political dynamics and power struggles between nations during this time. From a theological perspective, this verse can be interpreted as a warning against placing trust in earthly powers and material possessions rather than relying on God for protection and guidance. The word 'pledges' in this context may refer to a covenant or agreement, emphasizing the importance of honoring commitments in relationships and dealings with others. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of relying on human alliances rather than trusting in God's sovereignty.

Isaiah 36:8 in other translations

American Standard Version

Now therefore, I pray thee, give pledges to my master the king of Assyria, and I will give thee two thousand horses, if thou be able on thy part to set riders upon them.

World English Bible

Now therefore, please make a pledge to my master the king of Assyria, and I will give you two thousand horses, if you are able on your part to set riders on them.

Douay-Rheims

And now deliver thyself up to my lord the king of the Assyrians, and I will give thee two thousand horses, and thou wilt not be able on thy part to find riders for them.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Nowe therefore giue hostages to my lorde the King of Asshur, and I wil giue thee two thousand horses, if thou be able on thy part to set riders vpon them.