2 Kings 20:12-19

7. The prophecy of Babylonian captivity 20:12-19

Merodach-baladan ruled as king of Babylon for two terms, 721-710 and 703-702 B.C. The event recorded in these verses evidently took place in 702 B.C. [Note: John Martin, "Isaiah," in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: Old Testament, p. 1090.] Hezekiah appears to have let his visitors know the extent of Judah’s financial strength because he favored Merodach-baladan and Chaldean affiliation. In pride, as a result of his healing, he evidently wished to impress them with his wealth and power (cf. 2 Chronicles 32:25; 2 Chronicles 32:31). Isaiah prophesied that Babylon would take Judah into captivity one day (2 Kings 20:17-18). While Hezekiah would have been sorry to hear this prophecy, he evidently accepted it as the Lord’s will for Judah and was glad it would not happen in his lifetime (2 Kings 20:19). Other interpretations are that he made a smug, self-serving comment, or that he took the message as a prayer that the disaster would be delayed as long as possible. [Note: Peter R. Ackroyd, "An Interpretation of the Babylonian Exile: A Study of 2 Kings 20, Isaiah 38-39," Scottish Journal of Theology 27:3 (August 1974):338-39.] The first interpretation seems most consistent with Hezekiah’s character. Babylon’s future invasion came primarily as a result of Judah’s sins. Hezekiah’s unwise exposure of Judah’s wealth on this occasion was not the major cause.