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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Isaiah 39:1 At that time Merodach-baladan son of Baladan king of Babylon sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah, for he had heard about Hezekiah's illness and recovery.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/isaiah/39-1.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/20/23_Isa_39_01.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Isaiah 39:1 - Hezekiah Shows His Treasures" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="At that time Merodach-baladan son of Baladan king of Babylon sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah, for he had heard about Hezekiah's illness and recovery." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/isaiah/39-1.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/isaiah/39-1.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/isaiah/">Isaiah</a> > <a href="/isaiah/39.htm">Chapter 39</a> > Verse 1</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad1.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/isaiah/38-22.htm" title="Isaiah 38:22">◄</a> Isaiah 39:1 <a href="/isaiah/39-2.htm" title="Isaiah 39:2">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/isaiah/39.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/isaiah/39.htm">New International Version</a> At that time Marduk-Baladan son of Baladan king of Babylon sent Hezekiah letters and a gift, because he had heard of his illness and recovery. <a href="/nlt/isaiah/39.htm">New Living Translation</a> Soon after this, Merodach-baladan son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent Hezekiah his best wishes and a gift. He had heard that Hezekiah had been very sick and that he had recovered. <a href="/esv/isaiah/39.htm">English Standard Version</a> At that time Merodach-baladan the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent envoys with letters and a present to Hezekiah, for he heard that he had been sick and had recovered. <a href="/bsb/isaiah/39.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> At that time Merodach-baladan son of Baladan king of Babylon sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah, for he had heard about Hezekiah’s illness and recovery. <a href="/kjv/isaiah/39.htm">King James Bible</a> At that time Merodachbaladan, the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present to Hezekiah: for he had heard that he had been sick, and was recovered. <a href="/nkjv/isaiah/39.htm">New King James Version</a> At that time Merodach-Baladan the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present to Hezekiah, for he heard that he had been sick and had recovered. <a href="/nasb_/isaiah/39.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> At that time Merodach-baladan son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah, for he heard that he had been sick and had recovered. <a href="/nasb/isaiah/39.htm">NASB 1995</a> At that time Merodach-baladan son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present to Hezekiah, for he heard that he had been sick and had recovered. <a href="/nasb77/isaiah/39.htm">NASB 1977 </a> At that time Merodach-baladan son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present to Hezekiah, for he heard that he had been sick and had recovered. <a href="/lsb/isaiah/39.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> At that time Merodach-baladan son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present to Hezekiah, for he heard that he had been sick and was growing stronger. <a href="/amp/isaiah/39.htm">Amplified Bible</a> At that time Merodach-baladan son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent [messengers with] letters and a present to Hezekiah, for he had heard that he had been sick and had recovered. <a href="/csb/isaiah/39.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> At that time Merodach-baladan son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah since he heard that he had been sick and had recovered. <a href="/hcsb/isaiah/39.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> At that time Merodach-baladan son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah since he heard that he had been sick and had recovered. <a href="/asv/isaiah/39.htm">American Standard Version</a> At that time Merodach-baladan the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present to Hezekiah; for he heard that he had been sick, and was recovered. <a href="/cev/isaiah/39.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Merodach Baladan, the son of Baladan, was now king of Babylonia. And when he learned that Hezekiah was well, he sent messengers with letters and a gift for him. <a href="/erv/isaiah/39.htm">English Revised Version</a> At that time Merodach-baladan the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present to Hezekiah: for he heard that he had been sick, and was recovered. <a href="/gwt/isaiah/39.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> At that time Baladan's son, King Merodach Baladan of Babylon, sent letters and a present to Hezekiah. He had heard that Hezekiah had been sick and had recovered. <a href="/gnt/isaiah/39.htm">Good News Translation</a> About that same time the king of Babylonia, Merodach Baladan, son of Baladan, heard that King Hezekiah had been sick, so he sent him a letter and a present. <a href="/isv/isaiah/39.htm">International Standard Version</a> At that time Merodach-baladan, the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah, when he heard he had been sick and had survived. <a href="/msb/isaiah/39.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> At that time Merodach-baladan son of Baladan king of Babylon sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah, for he had heard about Hezekiah?s illness and recovery. <a href="/net/isaiah/39.htm">NET Bible</a> At that time Merodach-Baladan son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah, for he heard that Hezekiah had been ill and had recovered. <a href="/nheb/isaiah/39.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> At that time, Marduk-Baladan the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present to Hezekiah; for he heard that he had been sick, and had recovered. <a href="/wbt/isaiah/39.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> At that time Merodach-baladan, the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present to Hezekiah: for he had heard that he had been sick, and had recovered. <a href="/web/isaiah/39.htm">World English Bible</a> At that time, Merodach-baladan the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present to Hezekiah, for he heard that he had been sick, and had recovered. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/isaiah/39.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> At that time, Merodach-Baladan, son of Baladan, king of Babylon, has sent letters and a present to Hezekiah when he hears that he has been sick and has become strong. <a href="/ylt/isaiah/39.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> At that time hath Merodach-Baladan, son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present unto Hezekiah, when he heareth that he hath been sick, and is become strong. <a href="/slt/isaiah/39.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> In that time Merodach-Baladan, son of Baladan king of Babel, sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah: and he will hear that he was sick, and he will be strengthened.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/isaiah/39.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> AT that time Merodach Baladan, the son of Baladan king of Babylon, sent letters and presents to Ezechias: for he had heard that he had been sick and was recovered. <a href="/cpdv/isaiah/39.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> At that time, Merodach Baladan, the son of Baladan, the king of Babylon, sent letters and gifts to Hezekiah. For he had heard that he had fallen ill and had recovered. <a href="/nabre/isaiah/39.htm">New American Bible</a> At that time Merodach-baladan, son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and gifts to Hezekiah, when he heard that he had been sick and had recovered. <a href="/nrsvce/isaiah/39.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> At that time King Merodach-baladan son of Baladan of Babylon sent envoys with letters and a present to Hezekiah, for he heard that he had been sick and had recovered.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/isaiah/39.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> AT that time Merodach-baladan, the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and presents to Hezekiah; for he had heard that he had been sick and was healed. <a href="/hpbt/isaiah/39.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> At that time Merudak Baladan, son of Baladan, King of Babel, sent a letter and an offering to Hezekiah, because he heard that he was ill and that it was severe and he was healed<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/isaiah/39.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> At that time Merodach-baladan the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent a letter and a present to Hezekiah; for he heard that he had been sick, and was recovered. <a href="/sep/isaiah/39.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> At that time Marodach Baladan, the son of Baladan, the king of Babylonia, sent letters and ambassadors and gifts to Ezekias: for he had heard that he had been sick even to death, and was recovered. <a href="/parallel/isaiah/39-1.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Xv9bHT-nr9s?start=8334" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/isaiah/39.htm">Hezekiah Shows His Treasures</a> 1<a href="/hebrew/1931.htm" title="1931: ha·hi·w (Art:: Pro-3fs) -- He, she, it. ">At that</a> <a href="/hebrew/6256.htm" title="6256: bā·‘êṯ (Prep-b, Art:: N-cs) -- Time. From ad; time, especially now, when, etc.">time</a> <a href="/hebrew/4757.htm" title="4757: bal·’ă·ḏān (N-proper-ms) -- A king of Bab. (the same as NH1255). Of foreign derivation; Merodak-Baladan, a Babylonian king.">Merodach-baladan</a> <a href="/hebrew/1121.htm" title="1121: ben- (N-msc) -- Son. From banah; a son, in the widest sense (like 'ab, 'ach, etc.).">son</a> <a href="/hebrew/1081.htm" title="1081: bal·’ă·ḏān (N-proper-ms) -- He has given a son, father of a Bab. king. From Bel and 'adown; Bel lord; Baladan, the name of a Babylonian prince.">of Baladan</a> <a href="/hebrew/4428.htm" title="4428: me·leḵ- (N-msc) -- King. From malak; a king.">king</a> <a href="/hebrew/894.htm" title="894: bā·ḇel (N-proper-fs) -- From balal; confusion; Babel, including Babylonia and the Babylonian empire.">of Babylon</a> <a href="/hebrew/7971.htm" title="7971: šā·laḥ (V-Qal-Perf-3ms) -- To send. A primitive root; to send away, for, or out.">sent</a> <a href="/hebrew/4757.htm" title="4757: mə·rō·ḏaḵ (Prep) -- A king of Bab. (the same as NH1255). Of foreign derivation; Merodak-Baladan, a Babylonian king."></a> <a href="/hebrew/5612.htm" title="5612: sə·p̄ā·rîm (N-mp) -- A missive, document, writing, book. Or ciphrah; from caphar; properly, writing; by implication, a book.">letters</a> <a href="/hebrew/4503.htm" title="4503: ū·min·ḥāh (Conj-w:: N-fs) -- From an unused root meaning to apportion, i.e. Bestow; a donation; euphemistically, tribute; specifically a sacrificial offering.">and a gift</a> <a href="/hebrew/413.htm" title="413: ’el- (Prep) -- To, into, towards. ">to</a> <a href="/hebrew/2396.htm" title="2396: ḥiz·qî·yā·hū (N-proper-ms) -- Yah has strengthened, a king of Judah, also several other Isr. ">Hezekiah,</a> <a href="/hebrew/8085.htm" title="8085: way·yiš·ma‘ (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms) -- To hear. A primitive root; to hear intelligently.">for he had heard</a> <a href="/hebrew/3588.htm" title="3588: kî (Conj) -- That, for, when. ">about</a> <a href="/hebrew/2470.htm" title="2470: ḥā·lāh (V-Qal-Perf-3ms) -- A primitive root; properly, to be rubbed or worn; hence to be weak, sick, afflicted; or to grieve, make sick; also to stroke, entreat.">Hezekiah’s illness</a> <a href="/hebrew/2388.htm" title="2388: way·ye·ḥĕ·zāq (Conj-w:: V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms) -- A primitive root; to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong, obstinate; to bind, restrain, conquer.">and recovery.</a> 2And Hezekiah welcomed the envoys gladly and showed them what was in his treasure house—the silver, the gold, the spices, and the precious oil, as well as his entire armory—all that was found in his storehouses. There was nothing in his palace or in all his dominion that Hezekiah did not show them.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/2_kings/20-12.htm">2 Kings 20:12-19</a> At that time Merodach-baladan son of Baladan king of Babylon sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah, for he had heard about Hezekiah’s illness. / And Hezekiah received the envoys and showed them all that was in his treasure house—the silver, the gold, the spices, and the precious oil, as well as his armory—all that was found in his storehouses. There was nothing in his palace or in all his dominion that Hezekiah did not show them. / Then the prophet Isaiah went to King Hezekiah and asked, “Where did those men come from, and what did they say to you?” “They came from a distant land,” Hezekiah replied, “from Babylon.” ... <a href="/2_chronicles/32-31.htm">2 Chronicles 32:31</a> And so when ambassadors of the rulers of Babylon were sent to him to inquire about the wonder that had happened in the land, God left him alone to test him, that He might know all that was in Hezekiah’s heart. <a href="/isaiah/38-1.htm">Isaiah 38:1-8</a> 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.’” / 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. ... <a href="/jeremiah/50-1.htm">Jeremiah 50:1-3</a> This is the word that the LORD spoke through Jeremiah the prophet concerning Babylon and the land of the Chaldeans: / “Announce and declare to the nations; lift up a banner and proclaim it; hold nothing back when you say, ‘Babylon is captured; Bel is put to shame; Marduk is shattered, her images are disgraced, her idols are broken in pieces.’ / For a nation from the north will come against her; it will make her land a desolation. No one will live in it; both man and beast will flee.” <a href="/jeremiah/51-11.htm">Jeremiah 51:11</a> Sharpen the arrows! Fill the quivers! The LORD has aroused the spirit of the kings of the Medes, because His plan is aimed at Babylon to destroy her, for it is the vengeance of the LORD—vengeance for His temple. <a href="/daniel/1-1.htm">Daniel 1:1-2</a> In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. / And the Lord delivered into his hand Jehoiakim king of Judah, along with some of the articles from the house of God. He carried these off to the land of Shinar, to the house of his god, where he put them in the treasury of his god. <a href="/daniel/5-1.htm">Daniel 5:1-2</a> Later, King Belshazzar held a great feast for a thousand of his nobles, and he drank wine with them. / Under the influence of the wine, Belshazzar gave orders to bring in the gold and silver vessels that Nebuchadnezzar his father had taken from the temple in Jerusalem, so that the king could drink from them, along with his nobles, his wives, and his concubines. <a href="/matthew/2-1.htm">Matthew 2:1-2</a> After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, / asking, “Where is the One who has been born King of the Jews? We saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him.” <a href="/matthew/2-7.htm">Matthew 2:7-12</a> Then Herod called the Magi secretly and learned from them the exact time the star had appeared. / And sending them to Bethlehem, he said: “Go and search carefully for the Child, and when you find Him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship Him.” / After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen in the east went ahead of them until it stood over the place where the Child was. ... <a href="/luke/2-1.htm">Luke 2:1-2</a> Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that a census should be taken of the whole empire. / This was the first census to take place while Quirinius was governor of Syria. <a href="/acts/12-20.htm">Acts 12:20-23</a> Now Herod was in a furious dispute with the people of Tyre and Sidon, and they convened before him. Having secured the support of Blastus, the king’s chamberlain, they asked for peace, because their region depended on the king’s country for food. / On the appointed day, Herod donned his royal robes, sat on his throne, and addressed the people. / And they began to shout, “This is the voice of a god, not a man!” ... <a href="/acts/17-6.htm">Acts 17:6-7</a> But when they could not find them, they dragged Jason and some other brothers before the city officials, shouting, “These men who have turned the world upside down have now come here, / and Jason has welcomed them into his home. They are all defying Caesar’s decrees, saying that there is another king, named Jesus!” <a href="/romans/1-8.htm">Romans 1:8</a> First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being proclaimed all over the world. <a href="/romans/16-19.htm">Romans 16:19</a> Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice over you. But I want you to be wise about what is good and innocent about what is evil. <a href="/1_corinthians/1-5.htm">1 Corinthians 1:5-7</a> For in Him you have been enriched in every way, in all speech and all knowledge, / because our testimony about Christ was confirmed in you. / Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly await the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>At that time Merodachbaladan, the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present to Hezekiah: for he had heard that he had been sick, and was recovered.A.<a href="/2_kings/20-12.htm">2 Kings 20:12</a> At that time Berodachbaladan, the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a present unto Hezekiah: for he had heard that Hezekiah had been sick.king<a href="/isaiah/13-1.htm">Isaiah 13:1,19</a> The burden of Babylon, which Isaiah the son of Amoz did see… <a href="/isaiah/14-4.htm">Isaiah 14:4</a> That thou shalt take up this proverb against the king of Babylon, and say, How hath the oppressor ceased! the golden city ceased!<a href="/isaiah/23-13.htm">Isaiah 23:13</a> Behold the land of the Chaldeans; this people was not, till the Assyrian founded it for them that dwell in the wilderness: they set up the towers thereof, they raised up the palaces thereof; and he brought it to ruin.sent letters<a href="/2_samuel/8-10.htm">2 Samuel 8:10</a> Then Toi sent Joram his son unto king David, to salute him, and to bless him, because he had fought against Hadadezer, and smitten him: for Hadadezer had wars with Toi. And Joram brought with him vessels of silver, and vessels of gold, and vessels of brass:<a href="/2_samuel/10-2.htm">2 Samuel 10:2</a> Then said David, I will shew kindness unto Hanun the son of Nahash, as his father shewed kindness unto me. And David sent to comfort him by the hand of his servants for his father. And David's servants came into the land of the children of Ammon.<a href="/2_chronicles/32-23.htm">2 Chronicles 32:23</a> And many brought gifts unto the LORD to Jerusalem, and presents to Hezekiah king of Judah: so that he was magnified in the sight of all nations from thenceforth.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/isaiah/21-9.htm">Babylon</a> <a href="/2_kings/20-12.htm">Baladan</a> <a href="/isaiah/33-7.htm">Envoys</a> <a href="/isaiah/23-17.htm">Gift</a> <a href="/isaiah/38-5.htm">Heard</a> <a href="/isaiah/37-9.htm">Heareth</a> <a href="/isaiah/38-22.htm">Hezekiah</a> <a href="/isaiah/38-22.htm">Hezeki'ah</a> <a href="/isaiah/38-9.htm">Ill</a> <a href="/isaiah/38-9.htm">Illness</a> <a href="/isaiah/8-1.htm">Letters</a> <a href="/jeremiah/50-2.htm">Merodach</a> <a href="/2_kings/20-12.htm">Merodach-Baladan</a> <a href="/isaiah/37-9.htm">News</a> <a href="/isaiah/24-2.htm">Offering</a> <a href="/isaiah/36-16.htm">Present</a> <a href="/isaiah/38-16.htm">Recovered</a> <a href="/isaiah/38-9.htm">Recovery</a> <a href="/isaiah/38-9.htm">Sick</a> <a href="/isaiah/37-26.htm">Strong</a> <a href="/isaiah/38-15.htm">Time</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/isaiah/39-3.htm">Babylon</a> <a href="/2_kings/20-12.htm">Baladan</a> <a href="/isaiah/57-9.htm">Envoys</a> <a href="/ezekiel/45-13.htm">Gift</a> <a href="/isaiah/40-21.htm">Heard</a> <a href="/isaiah/41-26.htm">Heareth</a> <a href="/isaiah/39-2.htm">Hezekiah</a> <a href="/isaiah/39-2.htm">Hezeki'ah</a> <a href="/jeremiah/40-4.htm">Ill</a> <a href="/luke/4-41.htm">Illness</a> <a href="/jeremiah/29-25.htm">Letters</a> <a href="/jeremiah/50-2.htm">Merodach</a> <a href="/2_kings/20-12.htm">Merodach-Baladan</a> <a href="/isaiah/40-9.htm">News</a> <a href="/isaiah/40-16.htm">Offering</a> <a href="/isaiah/40-20.htm">Present</a> <a href="/jeremiah/8-22.htm">Recovered</a> <a href="/isaiah/58-8.htm">Recovery</a> <a href="/isaiah/57-10.htm">Sick</a> <a href="/isaiah/40-10.htm">Strong</a> <a href="/isaiah/39-6.htm">Time</a><div class="vheading2">Isaiah 39</div>1. <a href="/isaiah/39-1.htm">Merodach-baladan, sending to visit Hezekiah, has notice of his treasures.</a> 3. <a href="/isaiah/39-3.htm">Isaiah, understanding thereof, foretells the Babylonian captivity.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/isaiah/39.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/isaiah/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/isaiah/39.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>At that time This phrase situates the events within a specific historical context. The events of <a href="/isaiah/39.htm">Isaiah 39</a> occur after Hezekiah's illness and miraculous recovery, which are detailed in the preceding chapter. This period is during the late 8th century BC, a time of significant political upheaval in the Near East.Merodach-baladan son of Baladan king of Babylon Merodach-baladan was a historical figure known for his opposition to Assyrian dominance. He ruled Babylon intermittently and is noted for his attempts to assert Babylonian independence. His name, which includes the Babylonian god Marduk, reflects the religious and cultural milieu of Babylon. His interactions with Hezekiah highlight the geopolitical tensions of the era, as Babylon sought allies against Assyria.sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah The sending of letters and gifts was a common diplomatic practice in the ancient Near East, often used to establish alliances or express goodwill. This act by Merodach-baladan can be seen as an attempt to court Hezekiah's favor and possibly secure an alliance against their common enemy, Assyria. The gifts may have been intended to flatter Hezekiah and gain his trust.for he had heard about Hezekiah’s illness and recovery Hezekiah's illness and subsequent recovery were significant events, not only for Judah but also for surrounding nations. The miraculous nature of his recovery, as described in <a href="/isaiah/38.htm">Isaiah 38</a>, would have been seen as a sign of divine favor. This would have made Hezekiah an attractive ally for Merodach-baladan, who was seeking to strengthen his position against Assyria. The news of Hezekiah's recovery would have traveled quickly, given the interconnected nature of the ancient Near Eastern political landscape.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/m/merodach-baladan.htm">Merodach-baladan</a> He was the son of Baladan and the king of Babylon. Known for his ambition and political maneuvering, Merodach-baladan sought alliances to strengthen his position against Assyria. 2. <a href="/topical/h/hezekiah.htm">Hezekiah</a> The king of Judah, known for his faithfulness to God and his reforms to restore proper worship. Hezekiah's illness and miraculous recovery were significant events in his reign. 3. <a href="/topical/b/babylon.htm">Babylon</a> A major city and kingdom in ancient Mesopotamia, known for its wealth and power. At this time, Babylon was a rising power seeking to assert itself against Assyria. 4. <a href="/topical/l/letters_and_a_gift.htm">Letters and a Gift</a> These were sent by Merodach-baladan to Hezekiah, ostensibly to congratulate him on his recovery, but likely with political motives to form an alliance. 5. <a href="/topical/h/hezekiah's_illness_and_recovery.htm">Hezekiah's Illness and Recovery</a> A pivotal event in Hezekiah's life, where he was miraculously healed by God after a severe illness, as recorded in previous chapters of Isaiah.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_dangers_of_pride.htm">The Dangers of Pride</a> Hezekiah's openness to the Babylonian envoys reveals a moment of pride and lack of discernment. Believers must guard against pride, especially after experiencing God's blessings. <a href="/topical/d/discernment_in_alliances.htm">Discernment in Alliances</a> The political context of Hezekiah's interaction with Babylon highlights the need for discernment in forming alliances. Christians should seek God's guidance in their relationships and partnerships. <a href="/topical/g/god's_sovereignty_in_world_affairs.htm">God's Sovereignty in World Affairs</a> The rise of Babylon and the interactions with Judah remind us of God's sovereignty over nations and history. Trust in God's plan, even when geopolitical situations seem uncertain. <a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_gratitude_and_humility.htm">The Importance of Gratitude and Humility</a> Hezekiah's failure to acknowledge God fully after his recovery serves as a warning. Believers should cultivate gratitude and humility, recognizing God's hand in their lives.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_isaiah_39.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Isaiah 39</a> <a href="/q/evidence_of_merodach-baladan's_visit.htm">Isaiah 39:1–2: Is there credible historical or archaeological evidence verifying Merodach-Baladan’s visit to Hezekiah in Jerusalem? </a> <a href="/q/why_did_babylon_send_envoys_to_judah.htm">Isaiah 39:1: Why would Babylon, a major power, send envoys to a comparatively minor kingdom, and do extrabiblical records confirm such an exchange? </a> <a href="/q/why_is_hezekiah_unconcerned_in_isaiah_39_8.htm">Isaiah 39:8: Why does Hezekiah seem untroubled by the future judgment pronounced on his descendants, and what does this imply about his character or leadership?</a> <a href="/q/why_no_extra-biblical_proof_of_his_visit.htm">2 Kings 20:12-18: If Merodach-Baladan's visit is historically accurate, why don't extra-biblical sources confirm these events?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/isaiah/39.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>XXXIX.(1) Merodach-baladan.--The name is conspicuous in the Assyrian inscriptions of Sargon (Records of the Past, ix. 13), as having rebelled against him and set up an independent monarchy. He is described in them as son of Yakin, but this is, probably, a dynastic appellative, just as Jehu is described in the Assyrian records (Records of the Past, v. 41) as "the son of Khumri" (i.e., Omri). The mission had two ostensible objects: (1) congratulation on Hezekiah's recovery; (2) to inquire and report as to the phenomenon of the sun-dial (<a href="/2_chronicles/32-31.htm" title="However, in the business of the ambassadors of the princes of Babylon, who sent to him to inquire of the wonder that was done in the land, God left him, to try him, that he might know all that was in his heart.">2Chronicles 32:31</a>). Really, we may believe the object of Merodach-baladan was to open negotiations for an alliance with Judah. The "present," interpreted after the manner of the East, would seem almost like an acknowledgment of Hezekiah's hegemony, or even suzerainty, in such a confederacy.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/isaiah/39.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 1. - At that time (comp. <a href="/2_chronicles/32-31.htm">2 Chronicles 32:31</a>, where it appears that a part of the business of the ambassadors was to inquire concerning the astronomical marvel which had recently occurred in the land). The embassy probably followed the illness of Hezekiah within a year. Merodach-Baladan. This is a more correct form than the "Berodach-Baladan" of <a href="/2_kings/20-12.htm">2 Kings 20:12</a>. The name is one common to several Babylonian kings, as to one who reigned about B.C. 1325, to a second who is placed about B.C. 900, and to a third who was contemporary with the Assyrian kings Sargon and Sennacherib. It is this last of whom we have a notice in the present passage. He appears first in the Assyrian inscriptions as a petty prince, ruling a small tract upon the seacoast, about the mouths of the Tigris and Euphrates. Tiglath-Pileser takes tribute front him about B.C. 744. In B.C. 721 we find him advanced to a more prominent position. Taking advantage of the troubles of the time, he shakes off the Assyrians yoke, and makes himself King of Babylon, where he has a reign of twelve years - from B.C. 721 to B.C. 709. This reign is recognized by Sargon in his inscriptions ('Records of the Past,' vol. 9. p. 14), and by the Greek chronologist, Ptolemy, in his 'Canon.' In B.C. 709 Sargon leads an expedition against him, and drives him out of Babylonia into the coast-tract, Chaldea, where he besieges him in his ancestral town Bit-Yakin, takes the city, and makes him prisoner (ibid., p. 15). On the death of Sargon, in B.C. 705, Merodach-Baladan escapes from confinement, and hastens once more to Babylon, where he is acknowledged as king, and has a second reign, which lasts six months (Alex. Polyhist. ap. Euseb., 'Chronicles Can.,' 1. 5. § 1). He is then driven from the country by Sennacherib, and, after various vicissitudes, obliged to become a refugee in Elam (G. Smith, 'Hist. of Babylonia,' pp. 125-128). The name of Merodach-Baladau is composed of the three elements, Merodach (equivalent to "Mar-duk"), the god, bal or pal, "son," and iddina, "has given," and thus signifies "Merodach has given (me) a son." The son of Baladan. "Baladan" is scarcely a possible Babylonian name. "Beladan" would, however, be quite possible, being a name formed on the model of Ishtardddin ('Eponym Canon,' p. 30), Ninip-iddin (p. 35), Ilu-iddin (p. 57), etc. And the corruption of Beladan into Baladan would be easy. Merodach-Baladan III. is called by Sargon "the son of Yakin;" but this is perhaps a tribal or local rather than a personal name. Compare Jehu's appellation of "son of Omri" (ibid., p. 114). Sent letters and a present to Hezekiah. Hezekiah's fourteenth year was B.C. 714. Merodach-Baladan had then been King of Babylon for eight years, and, knowing that he might at any time be attacked by Sargon, was naturally looking out for alliances with other powers, which Assyria equally threatened. He had recently concluded a treaty with Khumbanigas, King of Elam ('Records of the Past,' vol. 9. p. 14), and had obtained the support of several of the Aramaean tribes on the Euphrates. He now apparently thought that Judaea, which Sargon was also threatening (ch. 38:6), might be induced to join him. Hezekiah's illness and "the wonder done in the land" (<a href="/2_chronicles/32-31.htm">2 Chronicles 32:31</a>) furnished him with pretexts for an embassy, which probably had more serious objects than either congratulation or scientific inquiry. <a href="/commentaries/isaiah/39-1.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>At that הַהִ֡וא (ha·hi·w) Article | Pronoun - third person feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1931.htm">Strong's 1931: </a> He, self, the same, this, that, as, are time בָּעֵ֣ת (bā·‘êṯ) Preposition-b, Article | Noun - common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_6256.htm">Strong's 6256: </a> Time, now, when Merodach-baladan בַּ֠לְאֲדָן (bal·’ă·ḏān) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4757.htm">Strong's 4757: </a> Merodach-baladan -- a king of Babylon son בֶּֽן־ (ben-) Noun - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1121.htm">Strong's 1121: </a> A son of Baladan בַּלְאֲדָ֧ן (bal·’ă·ḏān) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1081.htm">Strong's 1081: </a> Baladan -- 'he has given a son', father of a Babylonian king king מֶֽלֶךְ־ (me·leḵ-) Noun - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4428.htm">Strong's 4428: </a> A king of Babylon בָּבֶ֛ל (bā·ḇel) Noun - proper - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_894.htm">Strong's 894: </a> Babylon -- an eastern Mediterranean empire and its capital city sent שָׁלַ֡ח (šā·laḥ) Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7971.htm">Strong's 7971: </a> To send away, for, out letters סְפָרִ֥ים (sə·p̄ā·rîm) Noun - masculine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5612.htm">Strong's 5612: </a> A missive, document, writing, book and a gift וּמִנְחָ֖ה (ū·min·ḥāh) Conjunctive waw | Noun - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4503.htm">Strong's 4503: </a> A donation, tribute, a sacrificial offering to אֶל־ (’el-) Preposition <a href="/hebrew/strongs_413.htm">Strong's 413: </a> Near, with, among, to Hezekiah, חִזְקִיָּ֑הוּ (ḥiz·qî·yā·hū) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2396.htm">Strong's 2396: </a> Hezekiah -- 'Yah has strengthened', a king of Judah, also several other Israelites for he had heard וַיִּשְׁמַ֕ע (way·yiš·ma‘) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8085.htm">Strong's 8085: </a> To hear intelligently about כִּ֥י (kî) Conjunction <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> A relative conjunction [Hezekiah’s] illness חָלָ֖ה (ḥā·lāh) Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2470.htm">Strong's 2470: </a> To be weak or sick and recovery. וַֽיֶּחֱזָֽק׃ (way·ye·ḥĕ·zāq) Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2388.htm">Strong's 2388: </a> To fasten upon, to seize, be strong, obstinate, to bind, restrain, conquer <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/isaiah/39-1.htm">Isaiah 39:1 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/isaiah/39-1.htm">Isaiah 39:1 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/isaiah/39-1.htm">Isaiah 39:1 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/isaiah/39-1.htm">Isaiah 39:1 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/isaiah/39-1.htm">Isaiah 39:1 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/isaiah/39-1.htm">Isaiah 39:1 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/isaiah/39-1.htm">Isaiah 39:1 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/isaiah/39-1.htm">Isaiah 39:1 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/isaiah/39-1.htm">Isaiah 39:1 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/isaiah/39-1.htm">Isaiah 39:1 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/isaiah/39-1.htm">OT Prophets: Isaiah 39:1 At that time Merodach Baladan the son (Isa Isi Is)</a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/isaiah/38-22.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Isaiah 38:22"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Isaiah 38:22" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/isaiah/39-2.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Isaiah 39:2"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Isaiah 39:2" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>