Isaiah 36:4

The Rabshakeh said to them, "Tell Hezekiah that this is what the great king, the king of Assyria, says: What is the basis of this confidence of yours?

Study Bible

The Rabshakeh said to them
The Rabshakeh was a high-ranking Assyrian official, likely a chief cupbearer or military officer, sent by King Sennacherib to deliver a message to King Hezekiah of Judah. This encounter occurs during the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem around 701 BC. The Rabshakeh's role was to intimidate and persuade the people of Judah to surrender. His speech is a classic example of psychological warfare, aiming to undermine the morale of the defenders.

Tell Hezekiah
Hezekiah was the king of Judah, known for his religious reforms and efforts to centralize worship in Jerusalem. He is depicted in the Bible as a faithful king who trusted in the Lord, contrasting with the idolatrous practices of his predecessors. The Rabshakeh's direct address to Hezekiah highlights the personal nature of the confrontation and the Assyrian strategy to weaken Hezekiah's resolve.

that this is what the great king, the king of Assyria, says
The title "the great king" reflects the Assyrian monarch's view of himself as a powerful ruler over a vast empire. Assyria was the dominant military power in the Near East at the time, having conquered many nations. This phrase emphasizes the authority and might of the Assyrian king, Sennacherib, and serves to intimidate the people of Judah by reminding them of Assyria's previous conquests.

What is the basis of this confidence of yours?
The Rabshakeh questions the foundation of Hezekiah's trust and confidence, likely referring to both military and spiritual aspects. Historically, Hezekiah had sought alliances with Egypt and fortified Jerusalem, but his ultimate confidence was in the Lord. This challenge echoes the broader biblical theme of trusting in God rather than in human strength or alliances. The Rabshakeh's question is designed to sow doubt and fear, undermining the faith of the people in their king and their God. This moment foreshadows the deliverance of Jerusalem, as Hezekiah's reliance on God is ultimately vindicated.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rabshakeh
A high-ranking Assyrian official and spokesman for King Sennacherib, sent to deliver a message to King Hezekiah and the people of Judah.

2. Hezekiah
The King of Judah during the time of the Assyrian invasion. Known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to reform the religious practices of Judah.

3. Assyria
A powerful empire during the 8th century BC, known for its military might and conquests, including the siege of Jerusalem.

4. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, under threat from the Assyrian army during this event.

5. Sennacherib
The King of Assyria, who sought to conquer Jerusalem and expand his empire.

Teaching Points

Confidence in God vs. Human Power
The Rabshakeh's question challenges the basis of Judah's confidence. Believers today are similarly challenged to place their trust in God rather than in worldly powers or personal abilities.

Faith Under Pressure
Hezekiah's situation teaches us about maintaining faith when facing overwhelming odds. It encourages believers to seek God's guidance and strength in times of crisis.

The Power of Prayer
Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat includes prayer and seeking God's intervention, highlighting the importance of prayer in the believer's life.

God's Sovereignty
The account underscores God's control over nations and history, reminding believers that no earthly power can thwart His plans.

Spiritual Warfare
The psychological tactics used by the Rabshakeh reflect the spiritual battles believers face, where faith and truth are key defenses against doubt and fear.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the Rabshakeh's question reveal about the Assyrian perspective on power and confidence? How does this contrast with a biblical understanding of where true confidence should lie?

2. How does Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat serve as a model for dealing with crises in our own lives? What practical steps can we take to emulate his faith and reliance on God?

3. In what ways does the account of Hezekiah and the Assyrian siege illustrate the concept of spiritual warfare? How can Ephesians 6:10-18 help us prepare for similar battles?

4. How does the outcome of the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem demonstrate God's sovereignty and faithfulness? What other biblical accounts reinforce this theme?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a situation that seemed insurmountable. How did your faith influence your response, and what did you learn about God's power and provision through that experience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 18-19
Provides a parallel account of the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem and Hezekiah's response, offering additional details and context.

Isaiah 37
Continues the account, showing Hezekiah's prayer and God's deliverance of Jerusalem, emphasizing the power of faith and divine intervention.

Psalm 46
Often associated with this period, it reflects themes of God's protection and the futility of trusting in human power over divine strength.