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Book of Isaiah - Chapter 36 - Verse 4

36:4
And Rabshakeh said unto them, Say ye now to Hezekiah, Thus saith the great king, the king of Assyria, What confidence is this wherein thou trustest?

Meaning

In this verse from the book of 2 Kings, Rabshakeh, the envoy of the King of Assyria, questions Hezekiah's confidence in the face of the impending invasion by the Assyrian army. By asking "What confidence is this wherein thou trustest?" Rabshakeh is challenging Hezekiah's trust in God to deliver them from their enemies. The Assyrians were known for their brutal tactics and military might, so Rabshakeh's taunt is meant to sow doubt and fear in the hearts of the Israelites. This verse highlights the tension between faith and fear, as Hezekiah's trust in God is put to the test by the threats of the powerful Assyrian king. It serves as a reminder of the importance of unwavering faith in the face of adversity, even when the odds seem insurmountable.

Theological Overview

In the book of Isaiah, we find the verse where Rabshakeh, a high-ranking official of the king of Assyria, questions King Hezekiah's confidence in his trust in God. The theological interpretation of this verse underscores the theme of trust and faith in God's sovereignty in the face of adversity. The word "confidence" in this verse can be explored through a word study, revealing its Hebrew origin as "batach," which conveys a sense of security, hope, and reliance. By questioning Hezekiah's confidence, Rabshakeh challenges the foundation of faith in God's protection and provision. This verse serves as a reminder to believers to remain steadfast in their trust in God, even when faced with overwhelming circumstances or threats. It highlights the importance of unwavering faith and reliance on God's promises, despite the intimidating words or actions of others.

American Standard Version

And Rabshakeh said unto them, Say ye now to Hezekiah, Thus saith the great king, the king of Assyria, What confidence is this wherein thou trustest?
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