Isaiah 36:21
Afrikaans Bible (ABA) 2007 (Bybel vir almal)
Eljakim en die ander twee manne het stilgebly, hulle het nie die hoof-offisier geantwoord nie, want koning Hiskia het gesê hulle moenie die hoof-offisier antwoord nie.
What Does This Mean?
This verse describes a situation where people remained silent and did not respond to someone because the king had ordered them not to answer. The king's command was clear and was followed strictly.
Explained for Children
Imagine if your teacher told the class not to talk to the substitute teacher. That's what happened here. The king told people not to answer back, so they stayed quiet, just like you would if your teacher said to be quiet.
Historical Background
Isaiah, a prophet, wrote this during the time of King Hezekiah around 701 BC. The audience was the people of Jerusalem, and the cultural setting was one of conflict with the Assyrians who were threatening their city.
Living It Out Today
In situations where you feel pressured to respond to someone in a way that could harm you or others, it can be wise to remain silent as a sign of respect and to avoid escalation, just as the people did here.
Topics
obediencesilenceauthorityconflictrespectwisdom
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the people remain silent?
The people remained silent because the king had commanded them not to answer, showing respect for authority and obedience to the king's instructions.
How does this relate to today's leadership?
It highlights the importance of following instructions from leaders, especially in critical situations, and the value of silence as a strategic response.
Can silence be a form of wisdom?
Yes, silence can often be a form of wisdom, especially when speaking could lead to negative consequences or when it's best to let someone else have the last word.
What can we learn about respect for authority from this verse?
This verse teaches us about the importance of respecting authority and following orders, even when they are difficult, to maintain order and potentially avoid conflict.