Isaiah 37:7 - Behold, I will put a spirit in him and he will hear news, and will return to his own land. I will cause him to fall by the sword in his own land.”’”

Generated Verse: Isaiah 37:7

What does "Isaiah 37:7" mean?


Isaiah 37:7 is a prophecy concerning King Sennacherib of Assyria. Let's break down what it means:

"Behold, I will put a spirit in him..." This refers to God influencing Sennacherib's mindset or disposition. The "spirit" isn't necessarily a literal demon or angel, but rather a strong feeling or inclination that God instills.

"...and he will hear news..." The news Sennacherib would hear would be unfavorable, likely concerning troubles back in his own kingdom.

"...and will return to his own land." This means Sennacherib would be compelled to leave his siege of Jerusalem and head back to Assyria because of the news he receives.

"I will cause him to fall by the sword in his own land.”’” This is the final part of the prophecy: Sennacherib will die by the sword in his own land, which is Assyria.

In Summary:

The verse predicts that God will influence Sennacherib to hear disturbing news, causing him to abandon his campaign against Jerusalem and return to Assyria. However, God also foretells that Sennacherib will ultimately be assassinated in his own land.

Historical Fulfillment:

This prophecy was fulfilled. Sennacherib lifted his siege of Jerusalem because of a crisis back home. Later, he was assassinated by his own sons while worshiping in the temple of Nisroch (see Isaiah 37:38 and 2 Kings 19:37).

Theological Significance:

God's Sovereignty: This verse highlights God's complete control over world events, even influencing the decisions of powerful kings.
Protection of Jerusalem: God intervened to protect Jerusalem from the Assyrian threat, fulfilling his promises to his people.
Divine Justice: Sennacherib, who blasphemed God and threatened Jerusalem, faced divine judgment.

In essence, this verse is a powerful statement of God's power, his faithfulness to his people, and his justice against those who oppose him.

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