Jump to: Hitchcock's • Smith's • ATS • ISBE • Easton's • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Etymology: The term "Tartan" refers to a high-ranking Assyrian military title, equivalent to a commander or general. The word is derived from the Akkadian "turtānu," which signifies a chief officer or second-in-command to the king. In the biblical context, Tartan is not a personal name but a title held by an Assyrian official. Biblical References: The title "Tartan" appears in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of Assyrian military campaigns against Israel and Judah. The Berean Standard Bible mentions Tartan in two key passages: 1. 2 Kings 18:17 : "Then the king of Assyria sent the Tartan, the Rabsaris, and the Rabshakeh from Lachish with a great army to King Hezekiah at Jerusalem. They went up and arrived at Jerusalem, and they stood by the aqueduct of the upper pool, which is on the road to the Washerman's Field." 2. Isaiah 20:1 : "In the year that the Tartan came to Ashdod, sent by Sargon king of Assyria, and fought against Ashdod and captured it." Historical Context: The Tartan was a prominent figure in the Assyrian military hierarchy, often leading campaigns on behalf of the Assyrian king. The Assyrian Empire, known for its military prowess and expansionist policies, frequently engaged in campaigns against neighboring nations, including the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. In 2 Kings 18:17, the Tartan is mentioned as part of a delegation sent by the Assyrian king Sennacherib to demand the surrender of Jerusalem during the reign of King Hezekiah. This event is part of the larger Assyrian campaign against Judah, which is also detailed in the annals of Sennacherib. Isaiah 20:1 refers to a campaign led by the Tartan against the Philistine city of Ashdod, under the orders of King Sargon II of Assyria. This campaign is historically significant as it demonstrates the Assyrian strategy of subduing rebellious vassal states to maintain control over the region. Theological Significance: The presence of the Tartan in the biblical narrative underscores the geopolitical realities faced by the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. The Assyrian Empire, as a dominant force in the ancient Near East, posed a constant threat to the smaller, neighboring states. The biblical accounts of the Tartan's campaigns serve as a backdrop for the prophetic messages delivered by Isaiah and other prophets, who called the people of Israel and Judah to trust in God rather than in political alliances or military might. The encounters with the Assyrian Tartan highlight the themes of divine sovereignty and judgment. The prophets often interpreted Assyrian aggression as a tool of God's judgment against the unfaithfulness of His people, while also offering hope for deliverance and restoration for those who remained faithful. Cultural and Archaeological Insights: Archaeological findings, such as the Assyrian royal inscriptions and reliefs, provide additional context to the biblical references to the Tartan. These artifacts depict the might and organization of the Assyrian military, corroborating the biblical portrayal of Assyria as a formidable power. The title "Tartan" itself is attested in Assyrian records, confirming its role as a significant military position. In summary, the Tartan represents the military strength and administrative structure of the Assyrian Empire, playing a crucial role in the historical and theological narrative of the Old Testament. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary TartanSmith's Bible Dictionary Tartanwhich occurs only in (2 Kings 18:17) and Isai 20:1 Has been generally regarded as a proper name; like Rabsaris and Rabshakeh, it is more probably an official designation, and indicates the Assyrian commander-in-chief. ATS Bible Dictionary TartanAn Assyrian general, sent to Jerusalem with Rabshakeh, by Sennacherib, 2 Kings 18:17; and perhaps the same who captured Ashdod in the reign of Sargon, Isaiah 20:1. Easton's Bible Dictionary An Assyrian word, meaning "the commander-in-chief." (1.) One of Sennacherib's messengers to Hezekiah (2 Kings 18:17). (2.) One of Sargon's generals (Isaiah 20:1). Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) Woolen cloth, checkered or crossbarred with narrow bands of various colors, much worn in the Highlands of Scotland; hence, any pattern of tartan; also, other material of a similar pattern.2. (n.) A small coasting vessel, used in the Mediterranean, having one mast carrying large leteen sail, and a bowsprit with staysail or jib. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia TARTANtar'-tan (tartan): For a long time the word was interpreted as a proper name, but the Assyrian inscriptions have shown it to be the title of a high official. From the eponym lists it would seem that it was the title of the highest official next to the king, which in a military empire like Assyria would be the "commander-in-chief." The Assyrian form of the name is tartanu or turtanu. In both Old Testament passages the reference is to a military officer. In Isaiah 20:1 it is used of the officer sent by Sargon, king of Assyria, against Ashdod; according to 2 Kings 18:17, Sennacherib sent Tartan and RAB-SARIS (which see) and RABSHAKEH (which see) with a great host against Jerusalem. The names of the-two officials are not known. Strong's Hebrew 8661. Tartan -- general, commander (title of an Assyr. general)... 8660, 8661. Tartan. 8662 . general, commander (title of an Assyr. general). Transliteration: Tartan Phonetic Spelling: (tar-tawn') Short Definition: commander ... /hebrew/8661.htm - 6k Library On Certain Modern Writers and the Institution of the Family How Sennacherib Made an Expedition against Hezekiah; What Sennacherib (705-681 BC ) A Miracle of Grace Sargon of Assyria (722-705 BC ) The Rise of the Assyrian Empire The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal Babylonia and Assyria The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... Thesaurus Tartan (2 Occurrences)... Woolen cloth, checkered or crossbarred with narrow bands of various colors, much worn in the Highlands of Scotland; hence, any pattern of tartan; also, other ... /t/tartan.htm - 8k Rabshakeh (15 Occurrences) Rab-saris (3 Occurrences) Rabsaris (3 Occurrences) Sargon (1 Occurrence) Commander (111 Occurrences) Washerman's (3 Occurrences) Fighteth (23 Occurrences) Fullers (4 Occurrences) Fuller's (4 Occurrences) Resources Tartan: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Tartan (2 Occurrences)2 Kings 18:17 Isaiah 20:1 Subtopics Related Terms |
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