2 Kings 18:36
Arabic Bible AVD 1999 (الكتاب المقدس)
What Does This Mean?
In this verse, the people remain silent when spoken to because the king commanded them not to answer. The speaker is likely a foreign envoy, and the people comply with the king's command, showing obedience to authority.
Explained for Children
Imagine you're playing a game where your friend is the king and you have to follow his rules. He tells you not to talk to a stranger, and even though the stranger is talking to you, you stay quiet because you're following the rules. That's what's happening here, the people are being very good and following the king's command not to answer.
Historical Background
This verse is part of the book of 2 Kings, written by the ancient prophets, possibly Jeremiah or a contemporary, around 560 BCE. The audience was the Israelites, and the cultural setting was the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem, where the Israelites were under threat and had to show obedience to their leaders to maintain order.
Living It Out Today
Imagine you're at work and your boss instructs you not to engage with a difficult client. Following this instruction can help maintain a peaceful environment and avoid unnecessary conflict, much like the people in this verse stayed silent to avoid stirring up trouble.