The Literary Logic and Meaning of Isaiah 38

Abstract

This article seeks to show that the final two verses of Isaiah 38 (vv. 21–22) are not out of place but purposely put in their present climactic position within the chapter. The failure to describe Hezekiah's healing means that the king's question of 38.22 is by no means redundant. As well, the removal or relocation of 38.21–22 would seriously disturb the literary structuring and plot relations of the chapter. The narrative of Isaiah 38 concerns more than just the survival of Hezekiah and the question of the continuation of the house of David. Hezekiah's malady is one that prevents participation in the festivities of the temple, and this king's chief concern is participation in the praise of God as King that is central to the cultus of the house of Yhwh.