Assyria, a dominant empire in the ancient Near East, is frequently mentioned in the Bible as an instrument of God's judgment against various nations, including Israel and Judah. The prophetic literature of the Old Testament contains several predictions concerning Assyria's role in the divine plan, including its conquest of the Kenites.

The Kenites were a nomadic tribe with historical ties to the Midianites and were known for their metalworking skills. They are mentioned in the context of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness and their settlement in the Promised Land. The Kenites had a complex relationship with Israel, at times being allies and at other times maintaining a distinct identity.

In the prophetic oracle of Balaam, found in the Book of Numbers, there is a specific prediction concerning the fate of the Kenites. Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet, was summoned by Balak, the king of Moab, to curse Israel. However, under divine compulsion, Balaam instead pronounced blessings upon Israel and delivered a series of oracles concerning the future of various nations.

In Numbers 24:21-22 , Balaam prophesies concerning the Kenites: "Then he saw the Kenites and lifted up his oracle, saying: 'Your dwelling place is secure, and your nest is set in the rock. Yet Kain will be destroyed when Asshur takes you captive.'"

This prophecy indicates that despite the Kenites' secure and seemingly impregnable position, they would ultimately fall to the Assyrians. The reference to "Asshur" is understood to be a reference to Assyria, the powerful empire that would later rise to prominence and exert its influence over the region.

The fulfillment of this prophecy is not explicitly detailed in the biblical narrative, but it aligns with the historical expansion of the Assyrian Empire, which reached its zenith in the 8th and 7th centuries BC. During this period, Assyria conquered numerous territories and subdued various peoples, including those in the regions surrounding Israel and Judah.

The prediction of the Kenites' conquest by Assyria serves as a testament to the overarching theme of divine sovereignty in the biblical text. It underscores the belief that God orchestrates the rise and fall of nations according to His purposes, using empires like Assyria as instruments of His will. This perspective is consistent with the broader biblical narrative, which often portrays historical events as unfolding according to divine prophecy and purpose.Numbers 24:22
Nevertheless the Kenite shall be wasted, until Asshur shall carry you away captive.
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