KJV ORIGINAL
But they 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 they remained silent and didn't say a word to him, because the king had commanded them, 'Don't answer him.'
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
The people stayed completely silent because their king had ordered them not to respond to the enemy's words.
📚 Historical Context
In the 8th century BC, the Assyrian Empire under King Sennacherib was invading Judah, and King Hezekiah of Jerusalem was seeking to defend his city against overwhelming forces. The Assyrian commander, Rabshakeh, was sent to taunt the Jewish officials and demand surrender, publicly mocking their God and king. Hezekiah instructed his representatives to remain silent in response to avoid giving the enemy any advantage or escalating the confrontation.
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