Isaiah 38:5
Go, and say to Hezekiah, Thus saith the LORD, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will add unto thy days fifteen years.
Isaiah 38:5 · King James Version
Meaning
Hezekiah was the king of Judah, known for his faithfulness to the Lord. In this verse, the prophet Isaiah delivers a message from God to Hezekiah, assuring him that his prayers have been heard and his tears seen. The promise follows that God will extend Hezekiah's life by fifteen years. This verse illustrates the compassion and mercy of God towards His people, listening to their cries and responding with grace. It also serves as a reminder of the power of prayer and the importance of seeking God's intervention in times of need.
Hezekiah's story is a testament to the faithfulness of those who trust in the Lord. Despite facing seemingly insurmountable challenges, Hezekiah remained steadfast in his devotion to God. This verse also highlights the role of prophets as messengers of God, delivering His promises and warnings to the people. It is a message of hope and assurance that God hears our prayers and is attentive to our needs. Through faith and prayer, we can seek God's favor and experience His blessings in our lives.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse highlights God's compassion and mercy towards Hezekiah. The phrase "I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears" shows God's attentiveness to the emotions and pleas of His people. Hezekiah's earnest prayer and tears moved God to extend his life by fifteen years, illustrating the intimate relationship between humanity and divinity. This demonstrates that God is not indifferent to the suffering and petitions of His followers, but rather responds with grace and kindness. The mention of David, Hezekiah's ancestor, also emphasizes God's faithfulness to His promises and covenants with His chosen people.
Isaiah 38:5 in other translations
American Standard Version
Go, and say to Hezekiah, Thus saith Jehovah, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will add unto thy days fifteen years.
World English Bible
“Go, and tell Hezekiah, ‘Thus says Yahweh, the God of David your father, “I have heard your prayer. I have seen your tears. Behold, I will add fifteen years to your life.
Douay-Rheims
Go and say to Ezechias: Thus saith the Lord the God of David thy father: I have heard thy prayer, and I have seen thy tears: behold I will add to thy days fifteen years:
Geneva Bible (1599)
Goe, and say vnto Hezekiah, Thus saith the Lord God of Dauid thy father, I haue heard thy prayer, and seene thy teares: behold, I will adde vnto thy dayes fifteene yeeres.