Isaiah 38:21
For Isaiah had said, Let them take a lumpe of figges, and lay it for a plaister vpon the boile, and he shall recouer. Isaiah 38:21 (KJV)
For Isaiah had said, Let them take a lump of figs, and lay it for a plaster upon the boil, and he shall recover.
Isaiah 38:21 records a pivotal moment in the historical account of King Hezekiah’s severe illness and subsequent recovery. Earlier in the chapter the prophet Isaiah delivers a grim message, telling Hezekiah to set his house in order because he will not recover. Hezekiah, however, responds with earnest prayer, pleading for the life the Lord has given him. God hears his prayer and sends Isaiah back with a message of healing and an unexpected extension of Hezekiah’s life by fifteen years.
Verse 21 specifically references Isaiah’s earlier instruction to apply a lump of figs as a plaster on the boil. The figs themselves are not presented as the source of the miracle; rather, they serve as a means through which God works. This detail illustrates a broader biblical principle: God may employ ordinary, natural means as instruments of His divine healing power. The passage underscores that while God can use such remedies, the ultimate recovery is a result of His sovereign grace, not merely the medicinal properties of the figs.
The narrative also highlights two key theological insights. First, it demonstrates God’s willingness to respond to sincere prayer. Hezekiah’s heartfelt petition moves the heart of the Almighty, prompting a gracious intervention that not only restores his health but also adds years to his life. Second, the account emphasizes the importance of faith and obedience. Hezekiah trusted the prophetic word, obeyed the instruction to use the fig poultice, and thereby positioned himself to receive the promised healing.
In sum, Isaiah 38:21 teaches that God can work through humble, everyday means, that He attentively answers the prayers of His people, and that faithful obedience is integral to experiencing His miraculous provision. Hezekiah’s story remains a powerful reminder that divine healing often involves both divine initiative and human response.
