Norwegian 2018 (Bibelen - Guds Ord Hverdagsbibelen (Hermon Forlag))
Da kong Hiskia fikk høre dette, ble han så opprørt at han flerret klærne sine, kledde seg i sørgeklær av sekkestrie, og gikk inn i Herrens hus. Så sendte han sønnen Eljakim og statsskriveren og prestenes ledere til profeten Jesaja. De var også kledd i sekkestrie og sa til Jesaja, Amos’ sønn: «Hiskia sier: ‘Dette er en sorgens dag. Vi har vanskeligheter, blir refset og må høre på gudsbespottelse. Vi sliter som en fødende kvinne som mangler den siste kraften til å føde sitt barn. Det kan være at Herren din Gud vil høre hvordan Assurs konge har sendt denne høytstående mannen for å spotte Den Levende Gud. Det kan hende at Han så straffer ham for disse ordene! Bær derfor fram en bønn for oss.’»
What Does This Mean?
King Hezekiah, upon hearing some bad news, showed his deep sorrow by tearing his clothes, wearing sackcloth, and going to the temple. This verse describes how Hezekiah expressed his grief and sought God's help.
Explained for Children
Imagine if you heard some really sad news, like a pet getting lost. You might feel so sad that you want to cry or do something to show how upset you are. That's what King Hezekiah did when he heard bad news; he showed his sadness and went to the temple to talk to God.
Historical Background
This verse is from the book of 2 Kings, written around the 6th century BCE. It was intended for the Israelites who were in exile, reminding them of their history and God's promises. The cultural setting reflects the practice of mourning and seeking divine intervention.
Living It Out Today
Imagine you've just heard news that someone you love is very ill. You might feel overwhelmed and seek comfort and guidance from a higher power or loved ones. This verse encourages us to show our true emotions and seek support in times of distress.
He tore his clothes as a sign of deep sorrow and grief, a common practice in ancient times to show mourning or distress.
What is sackcloth and why did Hezekiah cover himself with it?
Sackcloth is a rough cloth made from goat hair, traditionally used as a sign of mourning or penitence. Hezekiah covered himself with it to show his sorrow and to seek God's mercy.
How does this verse apply to our modern lives?
It encourages us to show our true emotions and seek support and guidance from God or others during times of distress, just as Hezekiah did.
What can we learn from Hezekiah's example?
We can learn to be open about our emotions, seek divine intervention, and turn to places of worship for comfort and guidance in times of trouble.