Book of Isaiah - Chapter 37 - Verse 36
Meaning
According to the Book of Isaiah in the Old Testament, the verse "Then the angel of the LORD went forth, and smote in the camp of the Assyrians a hundred and fourscore and five thousand: and when they arose early in the morning, behold, they were all dead corpses." recounts a powerful event in which the angel of the Lord intervened to save the people of Israel from the Assyrians. This verse is a demonstration of God's ultimate power and protection over His people. The Assyrians were a formidable enemy, but through divine intervention, the entire army was destroyed overnight, leaving behind a camp filled with dead soldiers. This miraculous event serves as a reminder of the Lord's ability to deliver His people from any threat, no matter how insurmountable it may seem. It also illustrates the consequences of opposing God's chosen people, as the Assyrians faced divine retribution for their actions. The verse serves as a testament to the faithfulness and sovereignty of God, as well as a warning to those who would seek to harm His children.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the Book of Isaiah, we witness the power of the angel of the LORD as he strikes down a vast number of Assyrian soldiers in a single night. The term "angel of the LORD" is often interpreted as a manifestation of God's divine power, acting on behalf of his people. The phrase "smote in the camp of the Assyrians" signifies a sudden and devastating blow delivered by the angel, resulting in the death of 185,000 soldiers. The imagery of the scene is one of destruction and divine judgement, highlighting the protective nature of God towards his chosen people. This event serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of going against God's will, and the ultimate victory that comes from trusting in his power. Through theological interpretation and word studies, scholars delve deeper into the significance of this verse, uncovering layers of meaning that speak to the eternal truths found within the scriptures.