What does chapter 39 reveal about Hezekiah’s character?

• A. His humility and wisdom in leadership
• B. His strict governance and fairness
• C. His pride and naivety when he shows off his wealth to Babylon envoys
• D. His commitment to God’s service

Answer: (C)

Chapter 39 of Isaiah reveals Hezekiah's character through the lens of his interaction with the Babylonian envoys. When Hezekiah shows them all of his treasures and the wealth of his kingdom, it reflects a significant level of pride and naivety. He seems unaware of the implications of displaying such wealth to a foreign power that could potentially use this information to threaten his kingdom.

This moment highlights not only his misplaced sense of security but also an impulsiveness that contrasts with the wisdom and humility expected of a leader. The passage serves as a critical point in Hezekiah's narrative, indicating that despite his earlier acts of faithfulness to God, he is susceptible to prideful behavior when it comes to his achievements and possessions. This pride ultimately leads to a prophetic warning about the future of his kingdom, as Isaiah predicts that these very treasures will be taken away. Thus, this chapter serves to illustrate the duality of Hezekiah's character, focusing on the dangers of pride and the need for vigilance in leadership.