Isaiah 38:1
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.
Isaiah 38:1 · King James Version
Meaning
When Hezekiah fell sick unto death, the prophet Isaiah delivered a message from the Lord instructing him to prepare for his imminent passing. This verse serves as a reminder of the transient nature of human life and the importance of being prepared for the inevitable end. It urges readers to reflect on their own mortality and to take stock of their lives, ensuring that their affairs are in order. This verse also highlights the role of prophets in delivering divine messages to the people, emphasizing the importance of heeding their words and aligning oneself with the will of God. Overall, this verse serves as a solemn warning to prioritize spiritual and practical preparations for the end of one's life, encouraging introspection and readiness for the ultimate transition.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of 2 Kings, we see the prophet Isaiah delivering a message from the Lord to King Hezekiah. The phrase "Set thine house in order: for thou shalt die, and not live," holds deep theological significance. It serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of being prepared for the inevitable. The word "order" can also be interpreted as 'to arrange' or 'to put in order,' underscoring the idea of taking care of one's affairs before facing death. This verse prompts readers to reflect on the fragility of life and the need to prioritize our spiritual lives and relationships in preparation for eternity. It also serves as a call to repentance and a reminder of the power of God's word as spoken through his prophets. Through theological reflection and word study, one can glean deeper insights into the message conveyed in this verse and apply its timeless wisdom to their own lives.
Isaiah 38:1 in other translations
American Standard Version
In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came to him, and said unto him, Thus saith Jehovah, Set thy house in order; for thou shalt die, and not live.
World English Bible
In those days was Hezekiah sick and near death. Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, came to him, and said to him, “Thus says Yahweh, ‘Set your house in order, for you will die, and not live.’”
Douay-Rheims
In those days Ezechias was sick even to death, and Isaiah the son of Amos the prophet cane unto him, and said to him: Thus saith the Lord: Take order with thy house, for thou shalt die, and not live.
Geneva Bible (1599)
About that time was Hezekiah sicke vnto the death, and the Prophet Isaiah sonne of Amoz came vnto him, and sayd vnto him, Thus sayth the Lord, Put thine house in an order, for thou shalt dye, and not liue.