New International VersionYou say you have the counsel and the might for war—but you speak only empty words. On whom are you depending, that you rebel against me?
New Living TranslationDo you think that mere words can substitute for military skill and strength? Who are you counting on, that you have rebelled against me?
English Standard VersionDo you think that mere words are strategy and power for war? In whom do you now trust, that you have rebelled against me?
Berean Standard BibleYou claim to have a strategy and strength for war, but these are empty words. In whom are you now trusting, that you have rebelled against me?
King James BibleThou sayest, (but they are but vain words,) I have counsel and strength for the war. Now on whom dost thou trust, that thou rebellest against me?
New King James VersionYou speak of having plans and power for war; but they are mere words. And in whom do you trust, that you rebel against me?
New American Standard BibleYou say— but they are only empty words—‘ I have a plan and strength for the war.’ Now on whom have you relied, that you have revolted against me?
NASB 1995“You say (but they are only empty words), ‘I have counsel and strength for the war.’ Now on whom do you rely, that you have rebelled against me?
NASB 1977“You say (but they are only empty words), ‘ I have counsel and strength for the war.’ Now on whom do you rely, that you have rebelled against me?
Legacy Standard BibleYou say (but they are only empty words), ‘ I have counsel and might for the war.’ Now on whom do you trust, that you have rebelled against me?
Amplified BibleYou say (but they are only empty words) ‘ I have counsel and strength for the war.’ Now on whom do you rely, that you have rebelled against me?
Christian Standard BibleYou think mere words are strategy and strength for war. Who are you now relying on so that you have rebelled against me?
Holman Christian Standard BibleYou think mere words are strategy and strength for war. What are you now relying on so that you have rebelled against me?
American Standard VersionThou sayest (but they are but vain words), There is counsel and strength for the war. Now on whom dost thou trust, that thou hast rebelled against me?
Contemporary English VersionDoes he think he can plan and win a war with nothing but words? Who is going to help him, now that he has turned against the king of Assyria?
English Revised VersionThou sayest, but they are but vain words, There is counsel and strength for the war. Now on whom dost thou trust, that thou hast rebelled against me?
GOD'S WORD® TranslationYou give useless advice about getting ready for war. Whom, then, do you trust for support in your rebellion against me?
Good News TranslationHe demanded, "Do you think that words can take the place of military skill and might? Who do you think will help you rebel against Assyria?
International Standard VersionYou're saying—but they're only empty words—'I have enough advice and resources to conduct warfare!' '"Now who are you relying on, that you have rebelled against me?
NET BibleYour claim to have a strategy and military strength is just empty talk. In whom are you trusting that you would dare to rebel against me?
New Heart English BibleDo you think that empty words are strategy and power for war? Now on whom do you trust, that you have rebelled against me?
Webster's Bible TranslationThou sayest, but they are but vain words, I have counsel and strength for the war. Now in whom dost thou trust, that thou rebellest against me? Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleYou claim to have a strategy and strength for war, but these are empty words. In whom are you now trusting, that you have rebelled against me?
World English BibleYou say (but they are but vain words), ‘There is counsel and strength for war.’ Now on whom do you trust, that you have rebelled against me? Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionYou have said: Only a word of the lips! Counsel and might [are] for battle; now, on whom have you trusted that you have rebelled against me?
Young's Literal Translation Thou hast said: Only a word of the lips! counsel and might are for battle; now, on whom hast thou trusted that thou hast rebelled against me?
Smith's Literal TranslationThou saidst (but a word of the lips) Counsel and strength for war Now upon whom didst thou trust that thou rebelledst against me? Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BiblePerhaps thou hast taken counsel, to prepare thyself for battle. On whom dost thou trust, that thou darest to rebel?
Catholic Public Domain VersionPerhaps, you have taken counsel, so that you would prepare yourself for battle. In whom do you trust, so that you would dare to rebel?
New American BibleDo you think mere words substitute for strategy and might in war? In whom, then, do you place your trust, that you rebel against me?
New Revised Standard VersionDo you think that mere words are strategy and power for war? On whom do you now rely, that you have rebelled against me? Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleYou have said that you are a good speaker and that you have counsel and strength for war. Now on whom do you trust, that you have rebelled against me?
Peshitta Holy Bible TranslatedAnd you have said that speech of the lips is in you, and counsel and might for battle! Now, on whom is it you have trusted, that you have rebelled against me? OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917Sayest thou that a mere word of the lips is counsel and strength for the war? Now on whom dost thou trust, that thou hast rebelled against me?
Brenton Septuagint TranslationThou hast said, (but they are mere words,) I have counsel and strength for war. Now then in whom dost thou trust, that thou hast revolted from me?
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context Sennacherib Threatens Jerusalem… 19The Rabshakeh said to them, “Tell Hezekiah that this is what the great king, the king of Assyria, says: What is the basis of this confidence of yours? 20You claimto have a strategyand strengthfor war,butthese are emptywords.Inwhomare you nowtrusting,thatyou have rebelledagainst me?21Look now, you are trusting in Egypt, that splintered reed of a staff that will pierce the hand of anyone who leans on it. Such is Pharaoh king of Egypt to all who trust in him.…
Cross References Isaiah 36:5You claim to have a strategy and strength for war, but these are empty words. In whom are you now trusting, that you have rebelled against me?
2 Chronicles 32:10“This is what Sennacherib king of Assyria says: What is the basis of your confidence, that you remain in Jerusalem under siege?
Isaiah 30:1-2“Woe to the rebellious children,” declares the LORD, “to those who carry out a plan that is not Mine, who form an alliance, but against My will, heaping up sin upon sin. / They set out to go down to Egypt without asking My advice, to seek shelter under Pharaoh’s protection and take refuge in Egypt’s shade.
Jeremiah 2:37Moreover, you will leave that place with your hands on your head, for the LORD has rejected those you trust; you will not prosper by their help.”
Ezekiel 29:6-7Then all the people of Egypt will know that I am the LORD. For you were only a staff of reeds to the house of Israel. / When Israel took hold of you with their hands, you splintered, tearing all their shoulders; when they leaned on you, you broke, and their backs were wrenched.
Isaiah 31:1Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, who rely on horses, who trust in their abundance of chariots and in their multitude of horsemen. They do not look to the Holy One of Israel; they do not seek the LORD.
Jeremiah 17:5This is what the LORD says: “Cursed is the man who trusts in mankind, who makes mere flesh his strength and turns his heart from the LORD.
Psalm 118:8-9It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man. / It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in princes.
Isaiah 20:5-6Those who made Cush their hope and Egypt their boast will be dismayed and ashamed. / And on that day the dwellers of this coastland will say, ‘See what has happened to our source of hope, those to whom we fled for help and deliverance from the king of Assyria! How then can we escape?’”
Hosea 10:13You have plowed wickedness and reaped injustice; you have eaten the fruit of lies. Because you have trusted in your own way and in the multitude of your mighty men,
Isaiah 36:6Look now, you are trusting in Egypt, that splintered reed of a staff that will pierce the hand of anyone who leans on it. Such is Pharaoh king of Egypt to all who trust in him.
Isaiah 31:3But the Egyptians are men, not God; their horses are flesh, not spirit. When the LORD stretches out His hand, the helper will stumble, and the one he helps will fall; both will perish together.
Jeremiah 46:25-26The LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: “Behold, I am about to punish Amon god of Thebes, along with Pharaoh, Egypt with her gods and kings, and those who trust in Pharaoh. / I will deliver them into the hands of those who seek their lives—of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon and his officers. But after this, Egypt will be inhabited as in days of old, declares the LORD.
Matthew 23:37O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those sent to her, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were unwilling!
Luke 14:31-32Or what king on his way to war with another king will not first sit down and consider whether he can engage with ten thousand men the one coming against him with twenty thousand? / And if he is unable, he will send a delegation while the other king is still far off, to ask for terms of peace.
Treasury of Scripture You say, (but they are but vain words,) I have counsel and strength for the war. Now on whom do you trust, that you rebel against me? sayest. Proverbs 21:30,31There is no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against the LORD… rebellest. 2 Kings 18:14 And Hezekiah king of Judah sent to the king of Assyria to Lachish, saying, I have offended; return from me: that which thou puttest on me will I bear. And the king of Assyria appointed unto Hezekiah king of Judah three hundred talents of silver and thirty talents of gold. Jump to Previous AuthorityBattleCounselDependingDesignEmptyLipsMereMilitaryRebelRebelledRebellestRelySpeakStrategyStrengthSupportThinkTrustTrustedVainWarWordWordsJump to Next AuthorityBattleCounselDependingDesignEmptyLipsMereMilitaryRebelRebelledRebellestRelySpeakStrategyStrengthSupportThinkTrustTrustedVainWarWordWords2 Kings 18 1.Hezekiah's good reign4.He destroys idolatry, and prospers9.The inhabitants of Samaria are carried captive for their sins13.Sennacherib invading Judah, is pacified by a tribute17.Rabshakeh, by blasphemous persuasions, solicits the people to revoltYou claim to have a strategy and strength for warThis phrase is part of a taunt from the Assyrian field commander, the Rabshakeh, directed at King Hezekiah of Judah. The Assyrians were known for their military prowess and psychological warfare, often using intimidation to weaken their enemies' resolve. The claim of having a strategy and strength for war is challenged here, suggesting that Judah's military capabilities are insufficient against the might of Assyria. Historically, Assyria was a dominant empire during this period, known for its advanced military tactics and formidable army. This phrase highlights the futility of relying solely on human strength and strategy without divine support, a recurring theme in the Old Testament. but these are empty words
The Rabshakeh dismisses Judah's confidence as baseless, implying that their plans and preparations are ineffective. This reflects a common biblical theme where human boasting and self-reliance are contrasted with the need for dependence on God. In the broader biblical narrative, empty words often signify promises or boasts that lack substance or divine backing. This can be seen in other scriptures, such asProverbs 21:30, which states, "There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the LORD." In whom are you now trusting
This question challenges the foundation of Judah's confidence. Trust is a central theme in the Bible, often associated with faith in God rather than in human alliances or resources. The Assyrian envoy is questioning whether Hezekiah's trust is in Egypt, a common but unreliable ally, or in the LORD, the God of Israel. This echoes the biblical principle found inPsalm 20:7, "Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God." that you have rebelled against me?
The rebellion mentioned here refers to Hezekiah's refusal to continue paying tribute to Assyria, an act of defiance against the empire's authority. Historically, this rebellion was a significant political and military risk, as Assyria was known for its brutal suppression of insubordination. Theologically, this rebellion can be seen as an act of faith, as Hezekiah sought to rely on God's deliverance rather than submit to foreign oppression. This mirrors the broader biblical narrative of God's people being called to trust in Him rather than in oppressive powers, as seen in the Exodus story where God delivers Israel from Egypt. Persons / Places / Events 1. HezekiahThe King of Judah who is known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to rid Judah of idolatry. He is the central figure in this chapter, facing the threat from Assyria. 2. SennacheribThe King of Assyria, who invades Judah and sends his officials to intimidate Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem. 3. RabshakehThe Assyrian field commander who delivers the message of intimidation to Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem, questioning their reliance on God. 4. JerusalemThe capital city of Judah, under siege by the Assyrian army during this event. 5. AssyriaA powerful empire during this time, known for its military strength and conquests, posing a significant threat to Judah. Teaching Points Trust in God Over Human StrengthHezekiah's situation reminds us that true strength and strategy come from reliance on God, not merely human efforts or alliances. The Power of Faithful LeadershipHezekiah's faithfulness to God sets an example for leaders today, showing the importance of leading with integrity and trust in divine guidance. Facing Intimidation with FaithThe Assyrian threats serve as a reminder that believers may face intimidation, but faith in God provides the courage to stand firm. God's Sovereignty in DeliveranceThe account underscores God's ability to deliver His people from seemingly insurmountable odds, encouraging believers to trust in His sovereignty. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of 2 Kings 18:20?
2.How does 2 Kings 18:20 challenge reliance on human strength over God's power?
3.What does "mere words" in 2 Kings 18:20 reveal about empty promises?
4.How can we apply 2 Kings 18:20 to trust God in difficult situations?
5.What other scriptures emphasize trusting God over human alliances or strength?
6.How does 2 Kings 18:20 encourage faithfulness in God's promises today?
7.What does 2 Kings 18:20 reveal about relying on human strength versus divine support?
8.How does 2 Kings 18:20 challenge the concept of self-reliance in faith?
9.What historical context surrounds the events in 2 Kings 18:20?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from 2 Kings 18?
11.What does 'Be Still and Know I Am God' mean?
12.Can the claim that 'God is our refuge and strength' (Psalm 46:1) be historically validated via archeological or extra-biblical evidence?
13.Why does Judges 7 seemingly contradict other biblical passages that emphasize the need for adequate numbers in battle (e.g., 1 Chronicles 21:1-5)?
14.What does Jehovah-Nissi mean?What Does 2 Kings 18:20 Mean You claim to have a strategyAssyria’s field commander scoffs at Judah’s tactical planning. From his vantage point, political maneuvering, alliances, and military preparations are laughably inadequate. Yet Scripture consistently shows that any plan devised apart from God collapses. •2 Kings 18:7 already told us “the LORD was with Hezekiah and he prospered,” reminding us Who truly authors success. •Proverbs 21:30 echoes, “There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the LORD.” •Psalm 33:10-11 sets the contrast: God thwarts nations’ counsel but establishes His own forever. Judah’s “strategy” is not really human ingenuity; it is repentance and renewed faith (2 Kings 18:3-6). That is what the Assyrian cannot see.
and strength for warThe taunt continues: “and strength for war.” Assyria was the super-power; Judah’s troops looked pitiful beside the vast Assyrian host (2 Chronicles 32:9). But: •2 Chronicles 32:7-8 records Hezekiah’s rallying cry, “With us is the LORD our God to help us and to fight our battles.” •Deuteronomy 20:1 assured Israel that God went with them into battle. •Psalm 20:7 reminds us, “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.” Real “strength for war” is spiritual, not numerical.
but these are empty wordsThe commander labels Judah’s confidence “empty words.” Ironically, his own boast is empty, for no earthly power can overrule God’s promise. •Job 35:16 describes speech “without knowledge” that multiplies words in vain. •Jeremiah 23:16 warns of “visions from their own mind, not from the mouth of the LORD.” •Isaiah 55:11 assures us that only God’s word never returns void. What appears “empty” to unbelievers is actually anchored in the unfailing covenant.
In whom are you now trustingThis is the heart of the matter. The Assyrian misunderstands the nature of Judah’s trust, assuming it must rest on Egypt or some fragile alliance (2 Kings 18:21). He doesn’t grasp that Hezekiah has torn down idolatrous high places (18:4) and is leaning wholly on the LORD. •2 Kings 18:5 praises Hezekiah: “He trusted in the LORD, the God of Israel.” •Isaiah 26:3-4 promises perfect peace to the one whose mind is stayed on God. •Proverbs 3:5 calls us to “trust in the LORD with all your heart.” •Jeremiah 17:7 pronounces blessing on the man who trusts the LORD. Faith may be invisible, yet it is the most solid foundation.
that you have rebelled against me?Assyria interprets Judah’s refusal to submit as rebellion against the empire, but heaven views it as allegiance to God. •2 Kings 18:7 states plainly that Hezekiah “rebelled against the king of Assyria and would not serve him,” a direct outcome of his loyalty to the LORD. •Acts 4:19 shows the apostles choosing to obey God rather than men. •Daniel 3:16-18 portrays similar “rebellion” when the three Hebrew men refuse to bow. When earthly authority contradicts divine command, obedience to God is non-negotiable. The world may brand it defiance; Scripture calls it faithfulness.
summary2 Kings 18:20 captures a pagan official’s derision, yet every phrase he utters highlights the contrast between human pride and divine reliability. Judah’s strategy is submission to God; its strength is the LORD’s might; its words are anything but empty because they rest on eternal truth; its trust is fixed on the covenant-keeping God; and its so-called rebellion is loyal obedience to the only rightful King. The verse challenges us to ground every plan, every source of confidence, and every act of courage in the living Word that never fails. (20) Thou sayest (but they are but vain Words).--Literally, thou hast said-- a mere lip-word it was-- i.e., insincere language, an utterance which thou knewest to be false. (Comp. our expression, "lip-service.") I have counsel. . .--The margin is wrong. Verse 20. - Thou sayest (but they are but vain words); literally, words of lips; i.e. words which the lips speak, without the heart having any conviction of their truth. We must suppose that Sennacherib has either heard from his spies that Hezekiah is speaking to the people as he represents him to be speaking, or conjectures what he is likely to say. According to the writer of Chronicles ( 2 Chronicles 32:7, 8), what he did say was very different. He neither boasted of "counsel" nor of material "strength;" but simply said, "There be more with us than with him: with him is an arm of flesh; but with us is the Lord our God to help us and to fight our battles." I have counsel and strength for the war. Sennacherib imagines that Hezekiah's real trust is in the "fleshly arm" of Egypt, and in the counselors who have advised and brought about the alliance. And perhaps he is not far wrong. Hezekiah, it would seem, "halted between two opinions." He hoped for aid from Egypt; but, if it failed, then he hoped for the Divine help promised by Isaiah. Now on whom dost thou trust, that thou rebellest against me?
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew You claimאָמַ֙רְתָּ֙(’ā·mar·tā)Verb - Qal - Perfect - second person masculine singular
Strong's 559:To utter, say[to have] a strategyעֵצָ֥ה(‘ê·ṣāh)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 6098:Advice, plan, prudenceand strengthוּגְבוּרָ֖ה(ū·ḡə·ḇū·rāh)Conjunctive waw | Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 1369:Force, valor, victoryfor war,לַמִּלְחָמָ֑ה(lam·mil·ḥā·māh)Preposition-l, Article | Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 4421:A battle, warbutאַךְ־(’aḵ-)Adverb
Strong's 389:A particle of affirmation, surely[these are] emptyשְׂפָתַ֔יִם(śə·p̄ā·ṯa·yim)Noun - fd
Strong's 8193:The lip, language, a marginwords.דְּבַר־(də·ḇar-)Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 1697:A word, a matter, thing, a causeOnעַל־(‘al-)Preposition
Strong's 5921:Above, over, upon, againstwhomמִ֣י(mî)Interrogative
Strong's 4310:Who?, whoever, in oblique construction with prefix, suffixare you nowעַתָּה֙(‘at·tāh)Adverb
Strong's 6258:At this timerelying,בָטַ֔חְתָּ(ḇā·ṭaḥ·tā)Verb - Qal - Perfect - second person masculine singular
Strong's 982:To trust, be confident, surethatכִּ֥י(kî)Conjunction
Strong's 3588:A relative conjunctionyou have rebelledמָרַ֖דְתָּ(mā·raḏ·tā)Verb - Qal - Perfect - second person masculine singular
Strong's 4775:To rebelagainst me?בִּֽי׃(bî)Preposition | first person common singular
Strong's Hebrew
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OT History: 2 Kings 18:20 You say but they are but vain (2Ki iiKi ii ki 2 kg 2kg) |
