Greatness and Extent

Assyria, a dominant empire in the ancient Near East, is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a significant power that played a crucial role in the history of Israel and Judah. The Assyrian Empire, known for its military prowess and advanced civilization, reached its zenith between the 9th and 7th centuries BC. The capital city, Nineveh, was a center of wealth and culture, as described in the book of Jonah, where it is referred to as "an exceedingly great city" (Jonah 3:3).

The Assyrians were renowned for their military innovations, including the use of iron weapons, siege tactics, and a well-organized army. Their conquests extended over a vast region, encompassing modern-day Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, and parts of Turkey and Iran. The Bible records the Assyrian campaigns against the Northern Kingdom of Israel, culminating in the capture of Samaria in 722 BC, as noted in 2 Kings 17:6 : "In the ninth year of Hoshea, the king of Assyria captured Samaria and deported the Israelites to Assyria."

Duration

The Assyrian Empire's rise began in the early 2nd millennium BC, but it was during the Neo-Assyrian period (911–609 BC) that it became a formidable empire. The Bible provides insight into the duration of Assyrian dominance, particularly during the reigns of kings such as Tiglath-Pileser III, Shalmaneser V, Sargon II, Sennacherib, and Esarhaddon. These rulers expanded Assyrian control and influence, often clashing with the kingdoms of Israel and Judah.

The prophet Isaiah prophesied during the time of Assyrian ascendancy, warning of the impending judgment and destruction that Assyria would bring upon the nations, including Israel and Judah. Isaiah 10:5-6 states, "Woe to Assyria, the rod of My anger; the staff in their hands is My wrath. I will send him against a godless nation; I will dispatch him against a people destined for My rage, to seize the spoil and snatch the plunder, and to trample them down like clay in the streets."

Fall

Despite its might, the Assyrian Empire eventually fell, as prophesied by the biblical prophets. The fall of Assyria is attributed to a combination of internal strife, overextension, and the rise of new powers such as the Babylonians and Medes. The prophet Nahum vividly describes the impending doom of Nineveh, the Assyrian capital, in Nahum 3:7 : "And it will come to pass that all who see you will flee from you, saying, 'Nineveh is devastated! Who will mourn for her?' Where can I find anyone to comfort you?"

The decisive blow came in 612 BC when a coalition of Babylonians, Medes, and Scythians besieged and destroyed Nineveh, marking the end of Assyrian supremacy. This event fulfilled the prophetic declarations of Nahum and Zephaniah, who foretold the complete desolation of the once-great city. Zephaniah 2:13 states, "And He will stretch out His hand against the north and destroy Assyria, leaving Nineveh utterly desolate and dry as the desert."

The fall of Assyria serves as a testament to the biblical theme of divine justice and the rise and fall of empires according to God's sovereign plan. The Assyrian Empire, once a symbol of power and terror, became a historical example of the transient nature of human achievements in the face of divine will.Ezekiel 31:3-17
Behold, the Assyrian was a cedar in Lebanon with fair branches, and with a shadowing shroud, and of an high stature; and his top was among the thick boughs.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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thirst for happiness is never assuaged by the present, they fall back upon ...
/.../chapter iii -the legendary history of.htm

The Desire of the Righteous Granted;
... But presently betake themselves to the law of works, and fall to work there for
the performing of a righteousness, that they may be accepted of God for the same ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the desire of the righteous.htm

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