Yeshayahu 38 | "Blessed be He, Sought to Designate King Chizkiyahu as the Messiah"

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January 24 2025
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In the story that appears in Yeshayahu, unlike the version in the Book of Melakhim, Chizkiyahu composes a psalm in the style of Tehillim after his recovery from illness, thanking and praising God for his healing. This personal song of gratitude highlights the absence of a song following the national miracle in which Jerusalem was saved. Chazal taught that Chizkiyahu was destined to be the Messiah, but because he did not sing a song of praise, the plan was not fulfilled (Sanhedrin 94a). This Midrash finds significant support in the verses themselves.

During Chizkiyahu's reign, and even prior to it, Yeshayahu prophesied about the great redemption that would come with the revelation of God. He spoke of peace, justice, righteousness, and a strong kingdom that would be established. Clearly, the hope was that these prophecies would be realized through the righteous king Chizkiyahu. However, one recurring theme in Yeshayahu's prophecies is the greatness of God and the humility of humanity, alongside the recognition of this truth by Israel and the entire world. Central to this recognition in Yeshayahu’s vision is the song that Israel would sing after their salvation: “Sing out to the Lord: He has performed grandeur; all across the world this thing is known” (Yeshayahu 12:4–5), or “How You will sing as on the night when the festival begins” (Yeshayahu 30:29).

Yet, when the miracle actually occurred — when the angel of God struck down the Assyrian camp, and Jerusalem was saved — Chizkiyahu failed to use the moment to magnify God's name in the world. He did not sing a song of praise, and the redemption did not leave the profound impression it could have. It was only when Chizkiyahu himself was hurt, falling ill and recovering, that he finally expressed his gratitude in song.

All of Yeshayahu's prophecies were recorded because they were meant to serve future generations. Though originally directed to Chizkiyahu's time, their ultimate fulfillment was postponed and now awaits a generation that will bring them to fruition in their entirety.

Series: Nach Yomi

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Collections: Sefi Eliash Sefer Yeshayahu

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