Isaiah 38:4Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

I have heard your prayer and seen your tears. Behold, I will restore your health." Hezekiah then asked Isaiah, "What will be the sign that the Lord will heal me?" The prophet replied, "This will serve as a confirmation from the Lord that He will fulfill His promise: Do you want the shadow to advance ten steps or recede?" Hezekiah replied, "It is simple for the shadow to move forward ten degrees; instead, let it move back ten steps." After Isaiah prayed earnestly, the requested sign was granted. He then ordered fresh figs to be brought, and when they were placed upon Hezekiah’s wound, he was healed. At the command of the Lord, the prophet returned to the king, that he might be healed by the One who had afflicted him. Hezekiah was recognized as the leader of his people and the son of David, imitating his father's righteous deeds. His prayer was heard, and his tears were acknowledged because he walked sincerely before the Lord, with a loyal heart. He lamented deeply and acted in accordance with God's will. He received fifteen additional years of life, a gift he had not sought, along with the assurance of his kingdom's safety during his reign. Yet, some argue that life in the flesh is a burden, as suggested in the verses: "Turn my soul into Your rest" (Psalms 114:6) and "Bring my soul out of prison" (Psalms 141:8). If this were the case, why would the Lord grant fifteen more years to someone who should have been freed from such imprisonment? This favor was manifested through the sign of the sun reverting ten steps, which we interpret as degrees or hours according to Symmachus, who aimed to clarify his message. The steps may have been designed mechanically so that the shadow marked the divisions of time accurately. This miraculous sign symbolizes both the current and future realities—just as the sun returned to its original position, so too did Hezekiah’s years revert, resembling the everlasting life that is available through the resurrection of Christ for those of us living in the rhythms of time. In this region, those identifying holy sites often point to the steps associated with Hezekiah or Ahaz within the temple boundaries, suggesting that it seems as though the sun shone upon them. However, I find it hard to believe that the residence of Ahaz, a notoriously wicked king, or any righteous king would be situated at the temple of God, especially since it is recorded that Solomon displeased God by constructing high places, observing the tower of his palace from them, overlooking the temple courtyard (3 Kings 11).

Thus, this act was a profound demonstration of divine mercy and humble kindness from God, serving as a reward for Hezekiah's faith and righteousness; for other believers, who may struggle in their faith, it stands as an encouragement for stronger belief and trust in the Lord.