Overview:
Tiglath-pileser III, also known as Pul in some biblical references, was a prominent king of Assyria who reigned from approximately 745 to 727 BC. His reign marked a significant period in Assyrian history, characterized by military expansion and administrative reforms. Tiglath-pileser is notably mentioned in the Bible for his interactions with the kingdoms of Israel and Judah, playing a crucial role in the geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East during the 8th century BC.

Biblical References:
Tiglath-pileser is mentioned in several passages within the Old Testament, primarily in the context of his military campaigns and interactions with the Israelite and Judean kings.

1. 2 Kings 15:19-20 : "Then Pul king of Assyria invaded the land, and Menahem gave Pul a thousand talents of silver to gain his support and strengthen his own grip on the kingdom. Menahem exacted this money from each of the wealthy men of Israel—fifty shekels of silver from each man—to give to the king of Assyria. So the king of Assyria withdrew and did not remain in the land."

In this passage, Tiglath-pileser, referred to as Pul, is depicted as a powerful force to whom Menahem, king of Israel, paid tribute to secure his reign. This tribute was a significant financial burden on the people of Israel, indicating the influence and threat posed by Assyria.

2. 2 Kings 15:29 : "In the days of Pekah king of Israel, Tiglath-pileser king of Assyria came and captured Ijon, Abel-beth-maacah, Janoah, Kedesh, Hazor, Gilead, and Galilee—all the land of Naphtali—and he deported the people to Assyria."

Here, Tiglath-pileser's military prowess is evident as he captures several territories in the northern kingdom of Israel, leading to the deportation of its inhabitants. This event marks a significant loss for Israel and demonstrates Assyria's expanding influence.

3. 2 Kings 16:7-9 : "So Ahaz sent messengers to Tiglath-pileser king of Assyria, saying, 'I am your servant and your vassal. Come up and save me from the hand of the king of Aram and the king of Israel, who are rising up against me.' Ahaz took the silver and gold found in the house of the LORD and in the treasuries of the royal palace and sent it as a gift to the king of Assyria. So the king of Assyria complied and attacked Damascus, capturing it and deporting its people to Kir. Then he put Rezin to death."

King Ahaz of Judah sought Tiglath-pileser's assistance against the coalition of Aram and Israel. By offering tribute, Ahaz secured Assyrian intervention, which resulted in the defeat of Damascus and the death of Rezin, king of Aram. This alliance with Assyria, however, had long-term implications for Judah's autonomy and spiritual fidelity.

Historical Context:
Tiglath-pileser III is credited with significant military and administrative reforms that strengthened the Assyrian Empire. He reorganized the army, introduced a standing army, and implemented provincial governance, which allowed for more efficient control over conquered territories. His campaigns extended Assyrian dominance over much of the Near East, including parts of modern-day Iran, Syria, and Israel.

Theological Significance:
From a theological perspective, Tiglath-pileser's interactions with Israel and Judah are seen as part of God's sovereign plan, using foreign powers to execute judgment and fulfill prophetic warnings. The Assyrian threat served as a catalyst for the Israelites to reflect on their covenant relationship with God, highlighting themes of reliance on divine protection versus political alliances.

Legacy:
Tiglath-pileser's reign set the stage for the eventual fall of the northern kingdom of Israel and the rise of Assyria as a dominant power in the region. His policies and military campaigns had lasting impacts on the political and social structures of the ancient Near East, influencing subsequent biblical narratives and prophecies.Tig'lath-pile'ser (3 Occurrences)

2 Kings 15:29
In the days of Pekah king of Israel came Tiglath-pileser king of Assyria, and took Ijon, and Abel-beth-maacah, and Janoah, and Kedesh, and Hazor, and Gilead, and Galilee, all the land of Naphtali; and he carried them captive to Assyria.
(See RSV)

2 Kings 16:7
So Ahaz sent messengers to Tiglath-pileser king of Assyria, saying: 'I am thy servant and thy son; come up, and save me out of the hand of the king of Aram, and out of the hand of the king of Israel, who rise up against me.'
(See RSV)

2 Kings 16:10
And king Ahaz went to Damascus to meet Tiglath-pileser king of Assyria, and saw the altar that was at Damascus; and king Ahaz sent to Urijah the priest the fashion of the altar, and the pattern of it, according to all the workmanship thereof.
(See RSV)

Tig'lath-pile'ser (3 Occurrences)
Tig'lath-pile'ser. Tiglath-pileser, Tig'lath-pile'ser. Tigris . Multi-Version
Concordance Tig'lath-pile'ser (3 Occurrences). 2 Kings ...
/t/tig'lath-pile'ser.htm - 7k

Tiglath-pileser (6 Occurrences)
Tiglath-pileser. Tiglathpileser, Tiglath-pileser. Tig'lath-pile'ser .
Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia TIGLATH-PILESER. tig-lath ...
/t/tiglath-pileser.htm - 12k

Tigris (2 Occurrences)

/t/tigris.htm - 9k

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