Overview:
Rezin was the last king of Aram-Damascus, a significant figure in the Old Testament narrative, particularly during the reign of King Ahaz of Judah. His interactions with the kingdoms of Israel and Judah are pivotal in understanding the geopolitical and spiritual climate of the region during the 8th century BC.

Historical Context:
Rezin's reign is noted for its involvement in the Syro-Ephraimite War, a conflict that had profound implications for the northern kingdom of Israel (Ephraim) and the southern kingdom of Judah. During this period, Rezin formed an alliance with Pekah, the son of Remaliah, king of Israel, to resist the expanding Assyrian Empire under Tiglath-Pileser III.

Biblical References:
Rezin is mentioned in several key passages in the Old Testament. In 2 Kings 15:37, it is recorded that "In those days the LORD began to send Rezin king of Aram and Pekah son of Remaliah against Judah." This alliance aimed to pressure Judah into joining their coalition against Assyria. However, King Ahaz of Judah, fearing the threat posed by Rezin and Pekah, sought assistance from Assyria, a decision that had lasting consequences for the region.

In 2 Kings 16:5-9, the narrative continues: "Then Rezin king of Aram and Pekah son of Remaliah king of Israel came up to wage war against Jerusalem; they besieged Ahaz but could not overcome him." In response, Ahaz sent messengers to Tiglath-Pileser III, offering silver and gold from the temple and royal treasury as tribute, pleading for help against the coalition. The Assyrian king obliged, attacking Damascus, capturing it, and killing Rezin.

Isaiah 7:1-9 provides a prophetic perspective on these events. The prophet Isaiah was sent to reassure Ahaz, encouraging him to trust in the LORD rather than in foreign alliances. Isaiah's message was clear: "Take heed and be quiet; do not fear or be fainthearted because of these two stubs of smoldering firebrands, because of the fierce anger of Rezin and Aram and of the son of Remaliah" (Isaiah 7:4). This passage highlights the divine sovereignty over the political machinations of the time.

Theological Significance:
Rezin's account is a testament to the recurring theme of reliance on God versus reliance on human alliances and power. The narrative underscores the futility of opposing God's plans and the ultimate downfall of those who do not acknowledge His sovereignty. The alliance between Rezin and Pekah, though formidable, was ultimately thwarted by divine intervention, as prophesied by Isaiah.

Legacy:
Rezin's defeat and the subsequent fall of Damascus marked a significant shift in the power dynamics of the ancient Near East. It paved the way for Assyrian dominance and set the stage for the eventual exile of the northern kingdom of Israel. Rezin's interactions with Judah and Israel serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of political alliances that disregard divine guidance and the importance of faithfulness to God's covenant.

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... Urartu in Syria: defeat of Sharduris, campaign around Arpad, and capture of that
city"Homage paid by the Syrian princes, by Menahem and Rezin II--- Second ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm

Rezin's (1 Occurrence)
...Rezin's (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 9:11 Therefore the LORD doth set upon high the
adversaries of Rezin against him, and spur his enemies; (See NIV). ...
/r/rezin's.htm - 6k

Rezon (3 Occurrences)

/r/rezon.htm - 9k

Rezin (11 Occurrences)
... to attack Damascus, and this caused Rezin to withdraw for the purpose of defending
his own kingdom. ... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. REZIN. ...
/r/rezin.htm - 13k

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