Isaiah 38:21Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Why did he instruct that a layer of figs be placed on the wound? Similar to Nehemiah, who sought a tangible sign of healing through the earth he wished to obtain, so too did he. And why does Scripture say, "The prayer of Hezekiah king of Judah, when he was sick, and recovered from the disease"? It is further stated, "Let them bring a cluster of figs, and cover the boil with them; and he shall recover." The prophets often reiterate what they have previously proclaimed. Healing does not come from human physicians alone but through the Lord, who can restore without any medicinal aid or sacrifice; and when something is needed, it is predominantly the faith of the afflicted. Consequently, Christ did not go to the centurion's home because of his strong faith (Matt.

In the fourth book of Kings, it is recorded that the affliction of Hezekiah was due to a grievous and incurable sore, far beyond the capabilities of even the most skilled physicians. However, when the Lord chose to grant the righteous man life and commanded the ailment to vanish, he was healed through the very means that should have led to a worse outcome and intensified his suffering. The hand of the Almighty consistently performs the remarkable; assistance arises from sources that seem entirely unlikely. It is evident that this aid comes from God. He instructs to remove the poultice, apply it to the sore, and you shall be restored. Logically, one might expect that the ulcer would suffer further harm or gain no benefit.

Isaiah instructed Hezekiah, "Take some figs... apply them to the sore, and you will recover." The One who finds nothing too challenging brings healing to the grievous ulcer, which surpassed all remedies, through the use of figs.

Isaiah instructed them to apply a plaster made of fresh figs to the wound so that he might be healed. Hezekiah then inquired what sign he would receive that he might enter the house of the Lord. This must be considered alongside the prayer or writing of Hezekiah, which we have just discussed. Before the plaster was placed on his ailment, and before he sought a sign of future healing, he expressed gratitude to the Lord, which is noted as occurring after his recovery. The Hebrews assert that the term "siin," overlooked by the LXX, signifies "vered," meaning not wound but rather the king's affliction, wherein anything sweet, whether ingested or applied, is deemed detrimental. Therefore, to showcase God’s might, healing is brought about through means generally seen as harmful or unfavorable.