Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Tilgath-pilneser, also known as Tiglath-pileser III, was a prominent king of Assyria who reigned from approximately 745 to 727 BC. His reign marked a significant period in the history of the ancient Near East, characterized by military conquests and the expansion of the Assyrian Empire. In the biblical narrative, Tilgath-pilneser is noted for his interactions with the kingdoms of Israel and Judah, playing a crucial role in the geopolitical landscape of the region during the 8th century BC. Historical Context: Tilgath-pilneser III ascended to the Assyrian throne during a time of internal strife and external threats. He is credited with revitalizing the Assyrian Empire through a series of military campaigns and administrative reforms. His reign is marked by the consolidation of power, the reorganization of the Assyrian army, and the implementation of policies that strengthened the empire's control over its territories. Biblical References: Tilgath-pilneser is mentioned in several passages of the Old Testament, where his interactions with the kingdoms of Israel and Judah are documented. In 2 Kings 15:29 , it is recorded that "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 took the people to Assyria." This passage highlights his military campaign against the northern kingdom of Israel, resulting in the annexation of significant territories and the deportation of its inhabitants. In 2 Kings 16:7-9 , King Ahaz of Judah sought the assistance of Tilgath-pilneser against the threat posed by Rezin king of Aram and Pekah son of Remaliah, king of Israel. The text states, "So Ahaz sent messengers to Tiglath-pileser king of Assyria, saying, 'I am your servant and your vassal. Come up and save me out of the hand of the king of Aram and of the king of Israel, who are rising up against me.' And 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 he attacked Damascus and captured it. He deported its people to Kir and put Rezin to death." This alliance with Assyria, while providing temporary relief for Judah, also marked the beginning of Assyrian influence over the southern kingdom. Significance in Biblical History: Tilgath-pilneser's interactions with Israel and Judah had profound implications for the history of these kingdoms. His campaigns contributed to the weakening and eventual fall of the northern kingdom of Israel, which culminated in the Assyrian conquest of Samaria in 722 BC under his successor, Shalmaneser V. The deportation policies initiated by Tilgath-pilneser set a precedent for the Assyrian practice of relocating conquered peoples, which had lasting effects on the cultural and demographic landscape of the region. For Judah, the alliance with Assyria under King Ahaz marked a turning point, as it led to increased Assyrian influence and pressure on the kingdom. This period of Assyrian dominance is reflected in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament, where prophets such as Isaiah and Hosea address the political and spiritual challenges faced by the people of God during this tumultuous time. Conclusion: While Tilgath-pilneser III is primarily known for his military prowess and administrative reforms, his interactions with the biblical kingdoms of Israel and Judah underscore the complex interplay of political power and divine providence in the biblical narrative. His reign serves as a backdrop for understanding the historical and theological developments that shaped the destiny of God's people in the ancient Near East. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia TILGATH-PILNESERtil'-gath-pil-ne'-zer, til'-gath-pil-ne'-ser. Strong's Hebrew 8407. Tiglath Pileser -- an Assyrian king... Word Origin of foreign origin Definition an Assyr. king NASB Word Usage Tiglath-pileser (3), Tilgath-pilneser (3). ... King -- Tiglath-pileser, Tilgath- pilneser. ... /hebrew/8407.htm - 6k 8408. tagmul -- a benefit Thesaurus Tilgathpilneser (3 Occurrences)...TILGATH-PILNESER. til'-gath-pil-ne'-zer, til'-gath-pil-ne'-ser. See TIGLATH-PILESER. Multi-Version Concordance Tilgathpilneser (3 Occurrences). ... /t/tilgathpilneser.htm - 7k Tilgath-pilneser (3 Occurrences) Tilgath (3 Occurrences) Tillegath-pilneser (3 Occurrences) Pilneser (3 Occurrences) Reubenite (16 Occurrences) Reubenites (37 Occurrences) Exile (101 Occurrences) Asshur (133 Occurrences) Gadite (14 Occurrences) Resources Who were the Assyrians in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Tilgath-pilneser (3 Occurrences)1 Chronicles 5:6 1 Chronicles 5:26 2 Chronicles 28:20 Subtopics Related Terms |