The event of Hezekiah's illness is a significant narrative found in the Old Testament, primarily detailed in 2 Kings 20:1-11, Isaiah 38:1-8, and 2 Chronicles 32:24-26. This account highlights themes of divine intervention, prayer, and the sovereignty of God over life and death.

Historical Context

Hezekiah was the 13th king of Judah, known for his religious reforms and efforts to restore the worship of Yahweh. His reign is marked by a return to the covenantal faithfulness that had been neglected by his predecessors. The event of his illness occurs during a time of political and military tension, notably with the Assyrian Empire threatening the region.

The Illness and Divine Message

According to 2 Kings 20:1 , "In those days Hezekiah became mortally ill. The prophet Isaiah son of Amoz came to him and said, 'This is what the LORD says: Put your house in order, for you are about to die; you will not recover.'" This message from the prophet Isaiah underscores the severity of Hezekiah's condition and the immediacy of his impending death.

Hezekiah's Prayer and God's Response

Faced with this dire prognosis, Hezekiah turns to prayer, demonstrating his reliance on God. In 2 Kings 20:2-3 , it is recorded, "Then Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the LORD, saying, 'Please, O LORD, remember how I have walked before You faithfully and with wholehearted devotion; I have done what is good in Your sight.' And Hezekiah wept bitterly."

God's response to Hezekiah's heartfelt plea is swift and merciful. In 2 Kings 20:4-5 , before Isaiah had left the middle court, the word of the LORD came to him: "Go back and tell Hezekiah, the leader of My people, 'This is what the LORD, the God of your father David, says: I have heard your prayer; I have seen your tears. Behold, I will heal you. On the third day from now you will go up to the house of the LORD.'"

The Sign of the Sundial

To confirm His promise of healing, God provides Hezekiah with a miraculous sign. In 2 Kings 20:8-11 , Hezekiah asks for a sign, and Isaiah offers a choice: the shadow on the sundial can either advance ten steps or retreat ten steps. Hezekiah chooses the latter, and the LORD causes the shadow to move backward, a supernatural event that affirms God's power and the certainty of His word.

Hezekiah's Recovery and Aftermath

Hezekiah's recovery is not only a testament to God's compassion but also serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and gratitude. 2 Chronicles 32:25-26 notes that Hezekiah's heart was initially proud, but he later humbled himself, averting God's wrath from falling upon him and Jerusalem during his reign.

Theological Implications

The event of Hezekiah's illness and subsequent healing illustrates the efficacy of prayer and the importance of faithfulness to God. It also highlights God's sovereignty and willingness to intervene in human affairs, altering the course of events in response to sincere supplication. This narrative serves as an enduring reminder of the power of repentance and the grace available to those who earnestly seek the Lord.