Topical Bible: Assyria: Shalmaneser King of Was Conspired Against by Hoshea

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Historical Context

Assyria, a dominant Mesopotamian empire, played a significant role in the history of Israel and Judah during the 8th century BC. The Assyrian Empire was known for its military prowess, advanced administrative systems, and cultural achievements. It was during this period that Shalmaneser V ascended to the throne of Assyria, reigning from 727 to 722 BC. His reign is notably marked by his interactions with the northern kingdom of Israel, particularly with King Hoshea.

Shalmaneser V

Shalmaneser V was the son of Tiglath-Pileser III, one of Assyria's most powerful and influential kings. Upon his father's death, Shalmaneser inherited the throne and continued the expansionist policies that characterized Assyrian rule. His reign, though relatively short, was significant for its military campaigns and the subjugation of rebellious vassal states.

Hoshea's Rebellion

Hoshea, the last king of Israel, initially became a vassal to Assyria, paying tribute to Shalmaneser V. However, Hoshea's loyalty to Assyria was short-lived. In a bid to assert independence and possibly encouraged by Egypt, Hoshea conspired against Shalmaneser by withholding tribute and seeking an alliance with So, the king of Egypt. This act of rebellion is recorded in the biblical narrative, highlighting the political tensions of the time.

Biblical Account

The Bible provides a detailed account of these events in 2 Kings 17:3-4 : "Shalmaneser king of Assyria attacked him, and Hoshea became his vassal and paid him tribute. But the king of Assyria discovered that Hoshea had conspired, for he had sent envoys to So king of Egypt and had not paid tribute to the king of Assyria as in previous years. Therefore, the king of Assyria arrested him and put him in prison."

Consequences of the Conspiracy

Hoshea's conspiracy against Shalmaneser had dire consequences for the kingdom of Israel. In response to the rebellion, Shalmaneser launched a military campaign against Israel, leading to the siege of Samaria, the capital of the northern kingdom. The siege lasted for three years, culminating in the fall of Samaria in 722 BC. This event marked the end of the northern kingdom of Israel, as its people were exiled and dispersed throughout the Assyrian Empire, fulfilling the prophetic warnings of judgment due to Israel's persistent idolatry and disobedience to God.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the fall of Israel to Assyria is seen as a divine judgment for the nation's unfaithfulness. The biblical narrative emphasizes the consequences of turning away from God and relying on foreign alliances rather than trusting in the Lord. The Assyrian conquest serves as a somber reminder of the importance of covenant faithfulness and the sovereignty of God over the nations.

Legacy

The events surrounding Shalmaneser V and Hoshea's conspiracy are pivotal in understanding the historical and spiritual dynamics of the ancient Near East. The Assyrian Empire's interactions with Israel highlight the complex interplay of politics, religion, and divine providence that shaped the biblical narrative and the history of God's people.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Kings 17:4
And the king of Assyria found conspiracy in Hoshea: for he had sent messengers to So king of Egypt, and brought no present to the king of Assyria, as he had done year by year: therefore the king of Assyria shut him up, and bound him in prison.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Assyrian Captivity
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