Isaiah 37:38 Meaning and Explanation
“And it came to pass, as he was worshipping in the house of Nisroch his god, that Adrammelech and Sharezer his sons smote him with the sword; and they escaped into the land of Armenia: and Esarhaddon his son reigned in his stead.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Sennacherib is assassinated by his own sons while worshipping his god in Assyria.
The Context of Isaiah 37:38
Sennacherib is killed by his sons in Assyria, completing God's judgment on him.
What Does Isaiah 37:38 Mean?
God's judgment on Sennacherib is completed in his home country. While worshipping in the temple of his god Nisroch, Sennacherib is struck down by his own sons, Adrammelech and Sharezer. The irony is complete: the man who mocked the living God while claiming divine favor dies in the act of worshipping a false god. The gods he trusted prove powerless to protect him, even in his own temple.
Sennacherib's death at the hands of his own family adds shame to his defeat. He returns from military failure only to face assassination. His sons escape to Armenia, and another son, Esarhaddon, takes the throne. The proud king who claimed divine destiny and mastery over all nations dies a violent death, displaced in his rule, his family scattered. God's word through Isaiah has been fulfilled completely: Sennacherib fell by the sword in his own land.
Frequently Asked Questions About Isaiah 37:38
What does Isaiah 37:38 mean?
Sennacherib is assassinated by his own sons while worshipping his god in Assyria.
What is the context of Isaiah 37:38?
Sennacherib is killed by his sons in Assyria, completing God's judgment on him.