2 Chronicles 32:11

Is not Hezekiah misleading you to give you over to death by famine and thirst when he says, 'The LORD our God will deliver us from the hand of the king of Assyria?'

Study Bible

Is not Hezekiah misleading you
This phrase introduces the accusation against King Hezekiah, suggesting deceit. The Hebrew root for "misleading" is "תָּעָה" (ta'ah), which means to wander or lead astray. Historically, this reflects the psychological warfare employed by the Assyrian officials to undermine the confidence of the people in their leader. Hezekiah, a king known for his faithfulness to God, is portrayed here as a deceiver, which is a tactic to sow doubt and fear among the people of Judah.

to give you over to death by famine and thirst
The threat of "death by famine and thirst" is a vivid depiction of siege warfare, common in ancient times. The Assyrians were known for their brutal military campaigns, and the fear of starvation was a real and terrifying prospect. The Hebrew words for "famine" (רָעָב, ra'av) and "thirst" (צָמָא, tsama) emphasize the desperation and helplessness that the people might feel. This phrase underscores the dire situation and the stakes involved in trusting Hezekiah's leadership and, by extension, God's deliverance.

when he says, ‘The LORD our God will deliver us
Here, the focus shifts to Hezekiah's faith in divine intervention. The name "LORD" (יהוה, Yahweh) is the covenant name of God, reminding the people of His past faithfulness and promises. The Hebrew word for "deliver" (יָשַׁע, yasha) is often used in the context of salvation and rescue, reinforcing the hope that God will act on behalf of His people. This phrase is central to the narrative, highlighting the contrast between human fear and divine assurance.

from the hand of the king of Assyria’
The "hand" (יָד, yad) symbolizes power and control, and the "king of Assyria" represents the formidable enemy threatening Judah. Historically, the Assyrian Empire was a dominant force, known for its military prowess and conquests. This phrase encapsulates the immediate threat facing Judah and the challenge to their faith. It serves as a reminder of the biblical theme that no earthly power is greater than God's ability to save His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hezekiah
The King of Judah, known for his faithfulness to God and religious reforms. He is central to this account as he leads his people in trusting God against the Assyrian threat.

2. The King of Assyria
At this time, Sennacherib is the Assyrian king, known for his military campaigns and attempts to conquer Judah.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, under siege by the Assyrian army. It is the focal point of the conflict and the place where Hezekiah's faith is tested.

4. The Assyrian Siege
A significant event where the Assyrian army surrounds Jerusalem, attempting to conquer it and demoralize its people.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, whom Hezekiah trusts to deliver Jerusalem from the Assyrian threat.

Teaching Points

Faith in Adversity
Hezekiah's trust in God during the siege teaches us the importance of relying on God in times of crisis. Despite overwhelming odds, faith can lead to divine intervention.

Discernment Against Deception
The Assyrian king's attempt to demoralize the people of Jerusalem highlights the need for discernment. Believers must be wary of voices that sow doubt and fear, especially when they contradict God's promises.

Leadership and Influence
Hezekiah's leadership is a model for how leaders can influence their followers' faith. His example encourages leaders to guide others toward trust in God.

God's Sovereignty
The account underscores God's control over nations and events. It reassures believers that no earthly power can thwart God's plans for His people.

Prayer and Deliverance
Hezekiah's response to the threat was prayer and seeking God's guidance. This teaches the power of prayer and the importance of seeking God in every situation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat challenge or inspire your own faith in difficult situations?

2. In what ways can we discern and resist voices that attempt to undermine our trust in God's promises today?

3. How can Hezekiah's leadership during the siege inform your approach to leading others, whether in a family, church, or community setting?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's deliverance in a seemingly impossible situation. How did that experience shape your understanding of God's sovereignty?

5. How can the account of Hezekiah and the Assyrian siege encourage you to prioritize prayer in your life, especially when facing challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 18-19
Provides a parallel account of Hezekiah's reign and the Assyrian siege, offering additional details about Hezekiah's prayer and God's deliverance.

Isaiah 36-37
Isaiah's account of the same events, emphasizing the prophetic perspective and God's promise of deliverance.

Psalm 46
Often associated with this event, it speaks of God as a refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble, reflecting the faith Hezekiah had during the siege.