Nevertheless, the king of Assyria sent the Tartan, the Rabsaris, and the Rabshakeh, along with a great army, from Lachish to King Hezekiah at Jerusalem. They advanced up to Jerusalem and stationed themselves by the aqueduct of the upper pool, on the road to the Launderer's Field. NeverthelessThis word serves as a transition, indicating a shift in the narrative. It suggests a contrast or continuation from previous events, emphasizing the persistence of the Assyrian threat despite any prior developments. In the Hebrew text, this word underscores the inevitability of the Assyrian advance, highlighting the relentless nature of the enemy's campaign against Judah. the king of Assyria
This refers to Sennacherib, the powerful ruler of the Assyrian Empire during this period. Historically, Assyria was known for its military prowess and expansionist policies. Sennacherib's reign is well-documented in both biblical and extra-biblical sources, including the annals of Assyrian kings, which provide corroborative details of his campaigns. sent the Tartan, the Rabsaris, and the Rabshakeh
These titles refer to high-ranking officials or military commanders in the Assyrian army. The Tartan was likely the commander-in-chief, the Rabsaris a chief officer or eunuch, and the Rabshakeh a chief cupbearer or spokesman. Their presence signifies the importance of the mission and the seriousness of the threat to Jerusalem. along with a great army
This phrase emphasizes the formidable military force accompanying the Assyrian envoys. The Assyrian army was known for its size, discipline, and advanced siege techniques, which instilled fear in the hearts of their adversaries. The mention of a "great army" underscores the overwhelming odds faced by Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem. from Lachish
Lachish was a significant city in Judah, strategically located and heavily fortified. Its capture by the Assyrians was a critical blow to Judah's defenses. Archaeological excavations at Lachish have uncovered evidence of the Assyrian siege, including siege ramps and reliefs depicting the conquest, which align with the biblical account. to King Hezekiah at Jerusalem
Hezekiah was the king of Judah, known for his faithfulness to God and efforts to reform the nation spiritually. His reign is marked by a reliance on divine intervention in the face of overwhelming threats. Jerusalem, the capital city, was the spiritual and political center of Judah, making it the ultimate target for the Assyrian campaign. They advanced and came to a stop
This phrase describes the movement and positioning of the Assyrian forces. The strategic halt indicates a calculated approach, allowing the envoys to deliver their message and assess the situation. It reflects the Assyrian strategy of psychological warfare, aiming to intimidate and demoralize their opponents. at the aqueduct of the upper pool
The location is significant, as it was near a water source crucial for the city's survival during a siege. The aqueduct, part of Jerusalem's water supply system, symbolizes the city's vulnerability and the Assyrians' intent to cut off essential resources. This setting also recalls earlier biblical events, such as Isaiah's prophecy to King Ahaz at the same location (Isaiah 7:3). by the road to the Launderer’s Field
This specific location provides a geographical marker, situating the events in a real and tangible context. The Launderer's Field was likely an area used for washing and drying clothes, situated outside the city walls. Its mention adds authenticity to the narrative, grounding the account in the everyday life of ancient Jerusalem. Persons / Places / Events 1. King of AssyriaThe ruler of the Assyrian Empire, a dominant power in the ancient Near East, known for its military prowess and expansionist policies. 2. Tartan, Rabsaris, and RabshakehHigh-ranking Assyrian officials or military commanders sent by the king of Assyria. Each title represents a specific role within the Assyrian hierarchy, with Rabshakeh often acting as a spokesperson. 3. LachishA significant city in Judah, previously captured by the Assyrians, serving as a strategic military base for their operations against Jerusalem. 4. King HezekiahThe king of Judah, known for his faithfulness to God and efforts to reform the religious practices of his people, including the removal of idolatry. 5. Aqueduct of the Upper PoolA water source near Jerusalem, significant for its strategic importance in the city's defense and survival during a siege. Teaching Points Trust in God's SovereigntyDespite overwhelming odds, Hezekiah's account reminds us to trust in God's control over all circumstances, even when facing powerful adversaries. The Power of Prayer and FaithHezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat involved seeking God's guidance and intervention, illustrating the importance of prayer and faith in challenging times. Spiritual Leadership in CrisisHezekiah's leadership during the Assyrian siege serves as a model for spiritual leaders to guide their people with wisdom and reliance on God. The Importance of PreparationHezekiah's efforts to fortify Jerusalem and secure its water supply demonstrate the need for practical preparation alongside spiritual readiness. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the presence of the Assyrian officials at the aqueduct of the upper pool symbolize the threat to Jerusalem, and what can we learn about facing our own "sieges" in life? 2. In what ways does Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat reflect his faith in God, and how can we apply similar faith in our personal challenges? 3. How do the roles of the Tartan, Rabsaris, and Rabshakeh illustrate the organized nature of opposition we might face, and what biblical strategies can we employ to counteract such challenges? 4. How does the account of Hezekiah's leadership during the Assyrian siege inspire us to lead with integrity and faith in our communities or families? 5. Reflecting on the connections to Isaiah 36 and 2 Chronicles 32, how does the consistency of these accounts strengthen our understanding of God's faithfulness and deliverance? Connections to Other Scriptures Isaiah 36This chapter parallels the events of 2 Kings 18, providing additional details about the Assyrian threat and Hezekiah's response, emphasizing the role of faith and divine intervention. 2 Chronicles 32Offers another account of Hezekiah's reign, highlighting his preparations for the Assyrian siege and his reliance on God for deliverance. Psalm 46Often associated with God's protection of Jerusalem, this psalm reflects the themes of divine refuge and strength in times of trouble, relevant to Hezekiah's situation. People Abi, Abijah, Ahaz, Asaph, David, Elah, Eliakim, Hezekiah, Hilkiah, Hoshea, Israelites, Joah, Pharaoh, Rabsaris, Rabshakeh, Sennacherib, Shalmaneser, Shebna, Tartan, Zachariah, ZechariahPlaces Arpad, Assyria, Egypt, Gaza, Gozan, Habor River, Halah, Hamath, Hena, Ivvah, Jerusalem, Lachish, Samaria, Sepharvaim, Washer's FieldTopics Aqueduct, Army, Arrived, Asshur, Assyria, Butlers, Chief, Commander, Conduit, Eunuchs, Field, Force, Fullers, Fuller's, Heavy, Hezekiah, Hezeki'ah, Higher, Highway, Host, Jerusalem, Lachish, Large, Officer, Pool, Position, Rabsaris, Rab'saris, Rab-saris, Rabshakeh, Rab'shakeh, Rab-shakeh, Road, Stand, Stood, Stopped, Stream, Strong, Supreme, Tartan, Upper, Washerman'sDictionary of Bible Themes 2 Kings 18:17 4831 largeness
5261 commander
5433 occupations
5529 sieges
7342 cleanliness 2 Kings 18:13-35 7240 Jerusalem, history 2 Kings 18:17-35 8833 threats Library Hezekiah, a Pattern of Devout Life
'Hezekiah trusted in the Lord God of Israel.... 6. He clave to the Lord, and departed not from following Him, but kept His commandments.'--2 KINGS xviii. 5,6. Devout people in all ages and stations are very much like each other. The elements of godliness are always the same. This king of Israel, something like two thousand six hundred years ago, and the humblest Christian to-day have the family likeness on their faces. These words, which are an outline sketch of the king's character, are really …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScriptureThe Woman of Samaria
(Twelfth Sunday after Trinity, 1856.) 2 Kings xviii. 9-12. And it came to pass in the fourth year of King Hezekiah, which was the seventh year of Hoshea son of Elah king of Israel, that Shalmaneser, king of Assyria, came up against Samaria, and besieged it. And at the end of three years they took it: even in the sixth year of Hezekiah, that is the ninth year of Hoshea king of Israel, Samaria was taken. And the king of Assyria did carry away Israel unto Assyria, and put them in Halah and in Habor …
Charles Kingsley—Town and Country Sermons A Living Book
[Illustration: (drop cap T) Symbol of "Asshur", the principal Assyrian idol.] There is only one Book that never grows old. For thousands of years men have been writing books. Most books are forgotten soon after they are written; a few of the best and wisest are remembered for a time. But all at last grow old; new discoveries are made; new ideas arise; the old books are out of date; their usefulness is at an end. Students are the only people who still care to read them. The nations to which the …
Mildred Duff—The Bible in its Making The Old Testament and Archeology
A century ago the student of the world's history found it exceedingly difficult, if not impossible, to paint for himself a clear picture of events antedating B.C. 400. Concerning earlier periods, he was, aside from the Old Testament, practically without records that could claim contemporaneousness with the events recorded. But, one hundred years ago, men had commenced to test every statement, be it historical, or scientific, or theological, by severe canons of criticism, and if it could not stand …
Frederick Carl Eiselen—The Christian View of the Old Testament Gihon, the Same with the Fountain of Siloam.
I. In 1 Kings 1:33,38, that which is, in the Hebrew, "Bring ye Solomon to Gihon: and they brought him to Gihon"; is rendered by the Chaldee, "Bring ye him to Siloam: and they brought him to Siloam." Where Kimchi thus; "Gihon is Siloam, and it is called by a double name. And David commanded, that they should anoint Solomon at Gihon for a good omen, to wit, that, as the waters of the fountain are everlasting, so might his kingdom be." So also the Jerusalem writers; "They do not anoint the king, but …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica Sargon of Assyria (722-705 B. C. )
SARGON AS A WARRIOR AND AS A BUILDER. The origin of Sargon II.: the revolt of Babylon, Merodach-baladan and Elam--The kingdom of Elam from the time of the first Babylonian empire; the conquest's of Shutruh-nalkunta I.; the princes of Malamir--The first encounter of Assyria and Elam, the battle of Durilu (721 B.C.)--Revolt of Syria, Iaubidi of Hamath and Hannon of Gaza--Bocchoris and the XXIVth Egyptian dynasty; the first encounter of Assyria with Egypt, the battle of Raphia (720 B.C.). Urartu …
G. Maspero—History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 7 General Principles of Interpretation. 1 Since the Bible Addresses Men in Human Language...
CHAPTER XXXIV. GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF INTERPRETATION. 1. Since the Bible addresses men in human language, and according to human modes of thinking and speaking, the interpreter's first work is to ascertain the meaning of the terms employed. Here he must proceed as in the case of other writings, seeking by the aid of grammars, lexicons, cognate languages, ancient versions, ancient interpreters, and whatever other outward helps are available, to gain a thorough knowledge of the language employed by …
E. P. Barrows—Companion to the Bible Sennacherib (705-681 B. C. )
The struggle of Sennacherib with Judaea and Egypt--Destruction of Babylon. Sennacherib either failed to inherit his father's good fortune, or lacked his ability.* He was not deficient in military genius, nor in the energy necessary to withstand the various enemies who rose against him at widely removed points of his frontier, but he had neither the adaptability of character nor the delicate tact required to manage successfully the heterogeneous elements combined under his sway. * The two principal …
G. Maspero—History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 8 The History Books
[Illustration: (drop cap T) Assyrian idol-god] Thus little by little the Book of God grew, and the people He had chosen to be its guardians took their place among the nations. A small place it was from one point of view! A narrow strip of land, but unique in its position as one of the highways of the world, on which a few tribes were banded together. All around great empires watched them with eager eyes; the powerful kings of Assyria, Egypt, and Babylonia, the learned Greeks, and, in later times, …
Mildred Duff—The Bible in its Making Kings
The book[1] of Kings is strikingly unlike any modern historical narrative. Its comparative brevity, its curious perspective, and-with some brilliant exceptions--its relative monotony, are obvious to the most cursory perusal, and to understand these things is, in large measure, to understand the book. It covers a period of no less than four centuries. Beginning with the death of David and the accession of Solomon (1 Kings i., ii.) it traverses his reign with considerable fulness (1 Kings iii.-xi.), …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links 2 Kings 18:17 NIV2 Kings 18:17 NLT2 Kings 18:17 ESV2 Kings 18:17 NASB2 Kings 18:17 KJV
2 Kings 18:17 Commentaries
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