What does 2 Chronicles 32:3 mean?
"He took counsel with his princes and his mighty men to stop the waters of the fountains which were without the city: and they did help him." - 2 Chronicles 32:3

2 Chronicles 32:3 (KJV) - "He took counsel with his princes and his mighty men to stop the waters of the fountains which were without the city: and they did help him."
This verse comes from the Old Testament book of 2 Chronicles, which chronicles the history of the kings of Judah. In this particular chapter, we read about Hezekiah, one of Judah’s righteous and faithful kings, and how he successfully defended Jerusalem against the Assyrian king Sennacherib.
In 2 Chronicles 32:1-8, we see Hezekiah preparing for the impending attack from the Assyrian army. He realizes that in order to survive, he needs to make preparations to protect the water supply for his people. The Assyrian army was known for its siege warfare, so the fountains and water sources outside the city were crucial for the survival of the people of Jerusalem.
The verse begins by stating that Hezekiah sought counsel with his princes and mighty men. This illustrates Hezekiah’s wise leadership and his ability to consult with trustworthy advisors. He understood the importance of seeking input from those who were experienced and knowledgeable in matters of defense and strategy.
The verse then describes how together, they worked to stop the waters of the fountains outside the city. This was a vital strategic move, as it would prevent the Assyrian army from easily accessing the water supply, thus weakening their ability to carry out a prolonged siege. The phrase "they did help him" highlights the unity and collaboration among Hezekiah, his council, and the people, as they all combined their efforts to thwart the impending threat.
This verse highlights several important themes. First, it emphasizes the importance of seeking counsel and wisdom from experienced individuals in times of crisis. Hezekiah’s willingness to seek the advice of his trusted advisors showcases his humility and recognition of the need for collective wisdom in times of difficulty.
Another theme present in this verse is the idea of strategic planning and preparation. Hezekiah's decision to stop the waters was a strategic move aimed at protecting the welfare of his people. This demonstrates foresight, forethought, and prudent decision-making, all of which are essential qualities of good leadership.
The verse also symbolizes the importance of unity and collaboration in overcoming challenges. Hezekiah did not face the Assyrian threat alone. He relied on the support and cooperation of his princes, mighty men, and the people to carry out the plan to protect the water supply. This unity of purpose and action was critical in the successful defense of Jerusalem.
In the broader context of the book of 2 Chronicles, this verse is part of a larger narrative that highlights the faithfulness of God in delivering His people from their enemies. Hezekiah’s trust in God and his willingness to seek divine guidance in the face of adversity are central themes in this historical account. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of relying on God and seeking His wisdom as we navigate the challenges of life.
Overall, 2 Chronicles 32:3 presents a powerful message about the value of seeking counsel, strategic planning, unity, and reliance on God’s guidance in times of crisis. It serves as a source of inspiration and encouragement for believers to approach their own challenges with wisdom, unity, and faith.
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2 Chronicles 32:3 - "He took counsel with his princes and his mighty men to stop the waters of the fountains which were without the city: and they did help him."
"He took counsel with his princes and his mighty men to stop the waters of the fountains which were without the city: and they did help him." - 2 Chronicles 32:3
2 Chronicles 32:2 - "And when Hezekiah saw that Sennacherib was come, and that he was purposed to fight against Jerusalem,"
2 Chronicles 32:32 - "Now the rest of the acts of Hezekiah, and his goodness, behold, they are written in the vision of Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, and in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel."
2 Chronicles 32:20 - "And for this cause Hezekiah the king, and the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz, prayed and cried to heaven."
1 Chronicles 2:32 - "And the sons of Jada the brother of Shammai; Jether, and Jonathan: and Jether died without children."
2 Chronicles 32:16 - "And his servants spake yet more against the LORD God, and against his servant Hezekiah."
2 Chronicles 32:28 - "Storehouses also for the increase of corn, and wine, and oil; and stalls for all manner of beasts, and cotes for flocks."
2 Chronicles 20:32 - "And he walked in the way of Asa his father, and departed not from it, doing that which was right in the sight of the LORD."
2 Chronicles 32:10 - "Thus saith Sennacherib king of Assyria, Whereon do ye trust, that ye abide in the siege in Jerusalem?"
2 Chronicles 32:19 - "And they spake against the God of Jerusalem, as against the gods of the people of the earth, which were the work of the hands of man."
2 Chronicles 18:32 - "For it came to pass, that, when the captains of the chariots perceived that it was not the king of Israel, they turned back again from pursuing him."
2 Chronicles 32:7 - "Be strong and courageous, be not afraid nor dismayed for the king of Assyria, nor for all the multitude that is with him: for there be more with us than with him:"
2 Chronicles 34:32 - "And he caused all that were present in Jerusalem and Benjamin to stand to it. And the inhabitants of Jerusalem did according to the covenant of God, the God of their fathers."
2 Chronicles 32:29 - "Moreover he provided him cities, and possessions of flocks and herds in abundance: for God had given him substance very much."
2 Chronicles 32:24 - "¶ In those days Hezekiah was sick to the death, and prayed unto the LORD: and he spake unto him, and he gave him a sign."
2 Chronicles 28:3
2 Chronicles 32:6 - "And he set captains of war over the people, and gathered them together to him in the street of the gate of the city, and spake comfortably to them, saying,"
2 Chronicles 32:18 - "Then they cried with a loud voice in the Jews' speech unto the people of Jerusalem that were on the wall, to affright them, and to trouble them; that they might take the city."
2 Chronicles 32:1 - "After these things, and the establishment thereof, Sennacherib king of Assyria came, and entered into Judah, and encamped against the fenced cities, and thought to win them for himself."
2 Chronicles 32:23 - "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."
"And when Hezekiah saw that Sennacherib was come, and that he was purposed to fight against Jerusalem," - 2 Chronicles 32:2
2 Chronicles 29:32 - "And the number of the burnt offerings, which the congregation brought, was threescore and ten bullocks, an hundred rams, and two hundred lambs: all these were for a burnt offering to the LORD."
2 Chronicles 32:25 - "But Hezekiah rendered not again according to the benefit done unto him; for his heart was lifted up: therefore there was wrath upon him, and upon Judah and Jerusalem."
2 Chronicles 32:22 - "Thus the LORD saved Hezekiah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem from the hand of Sennacherib the king of Assyria, and from the hand of all other, and guided them on every side."
2 Chronicles 32:30 - "This same Hezekiah also stopped the upper watercourse of Gihon, and brought it straight down to the west side of the city of David. And Hezekiah prospered in all his works."
isaiah 32:2-3 emphasis on Jesus Christ being unnatractive
2 Chronicles 32:27 - "¶ And Hezekiah had exceeding much riches and honour: and he made himself treasuries for silver, and for gold, and for precious stones, and for spices, and for shields, and for all manner of pleasant jewels;"
2 Chronicles 32:8 - "With him is an arm of flesh; but with us is the LORD our God to help us, and to fight our battles. And the people rested themselves upon the words of Hezekiah king of Judah."
2 Samuel 3:32 - "And they buried Abner in Hebron: and the king lifted up his voice, and wept at the grave of Abner; and all the people wept."