Book of 2 Kings - Chapter 25 - Verse 3

In this verse from the book of 2 Kings, the author describes a time when a severe famine struck the city, causing a shortage of bread for the people living there. The mention of the specific date, the ninth day of the fourth month, adds a sense of urgency and precision to the narrative, emphasizing the dire situation faced by the inhabitants of the city. The scarcity of food in ancient times was a common occurrence that often led to great suffering and desperation among the population. In this context, the lack of bread symbolizes not only physical hunger but also a spiritual hunger for sustenance and salvation. The verse serves as a reminder of the fragility of human existence and the importance of relying on God's provision in times of scarcity and need.

When examining the theological interpretation of the verse "And on the ninth day of the fourth month the famine prevailed in the city, and there was no bread for the people of the land," one could see the significance of God's judgment upon a sinful nation. Throughout the Bible, famines were often used as a form of punishment for the people's disobedience and lack of faith. In this particular verse, the mention of the ninth day of the fourth month could symbolize a completion of a period of time, signifying the severity and culmination of the famine. The absence of bread highlights the physical suffering and deprivation experienced during times of distress. In word studies related to this verse, "famine" can symbolize a spiritual hunger for God's word and righteousness, emphasizing the importance of seeking sustenance from God alone. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the necessity of repentance and reliance on Him during times of hardship.