2 Kings 18:36 Made Simple

KJV ORIGINAL

But the people held their peace, and answered him not a word: for the king’s commandment was, saying, Answer him not.

Close to the original. Clear modern English.

✦ MADE SIMPLE

But the people stayed silent and didn't say a single word back to him, because the king had commanded them, 'Don't answer him.'

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

The people obeyed King Hezekiah's order to remain silent when their enemies tried to intimidate them with threats and lies.

📚 Historical Context

This occurs during the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem around 701 BC, when the Assyrian field commander (Rabshakeh) was trying to demoralize the Jewish people by speaking directly to them in Hebrew, bypassing their leaders. King Hezekiah had wisely instructed his people not to engage in debate with the enemy's propaganda, knowing that responding would only give the Assyrians more opportunities to spread fear and doubt.

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