2 Chronicles 32:13

Do you not know what I and my fathers have done to all the peoples of the lands? Have the gods of these nations ever been able to deliver their land from my hand?

Study Bible

Do you not know
This phrase is a rhetorical question posed by Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, as he attempts to intimidate the people of Judah. The Hebrew root for "know" is "יָדַע" (yada), which implies not just awareness but an intimate understanding or recognition. Sennacherib is challenging the Israelites' understanding of their situation, suggesting that their knowledge of past events should lead them to fear and submission. This reflects a common tactic of psychological warfare, aiming to undermine confidence in divine protection.

what I and my fathers have done
Here, Sennacherib references the historical conquests of Assyria, emphasizing a legacy of dominance. The phrase underscores the continuity of Assyrian power, suggesting that the current generation is merely continuing the work of their ancestors. Historically, the Assyrian Empire was known for its military prowess and expansionist policies, often attributed to the divine favor of their gods. This statement is meant to instill a sense of inevitability regarding Assyrian victory.

to all the peoples of the other lands
This phrase highlights the widespread impact of Assyrian conquests. The term "peoples" (עַמִּים, amim) in Hebrew often refers to distinct ethnic groups or nations, emphasizing the diversity and number of those who have fallen before Assyria. The historical context here is crucial; Assyria was known for its vast empire, which included many different cultures and regions. This assertion is designed to make Judah feel isolated and vulnerable.

Were the gods of the nations of those lands
Sennacherib is drawing a comparison between the gods of conquered nations and the God of Israel. The Hebrew word for "gods" is "אֱלֹהִים" (elohim), which can refer to divine beings or deities. In the ancient Near East, it was common for each nation to have its own pantheon of gods, believed to protect and guide them. Sennacherib's question implies that these gods were powerless against Assyria, thus challenging the Israelites' faith in their own God.

ever able to deliver their land from my hand?
The phrase "deliver" (נָצַל, natsal) in Hebrew conveys the idea of rescue or salvation. Sennacherib is questioning the efficacy of other nations' gods in saving them from Assyrian conquest. The "hand" (יָד, yad) symbolizes power and control, a common biblical metaphor for dominion. This rhetorical question is meant to sow doubt in the minds of the Israelites about their God's ability to protect them, contrasting the perceived impotence of other deities with the might of Assyria.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Sennacherib
The Assyrian king who invaded Judah and laid siege to Jerusalem. He is known for his arrogance and blasphemy against the God of Israel.

2. Hezekiah
The king of Judah during Sennacherib's invasion. He is noted for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to reform the religious practices of Judah.

3. Assyria
A powerful empire during this period, known for its military conquests and attempts to dominate the region, including Judah.

4. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, which was under siege by Sennacherib's forces. It is a central location in the account of God's deliverance.

5. The gods of the nations
Refers to the deities worshiped by the peoples conquered by Assyria, which Sennacherib mocks as powerless.

Teaching Points

The Folly of Arrogance
Sennacherib's pride and blasphemy against God serve as a warning against arrogance and the assumption that human power can rival divine authority.

God's Sovereignty
The account underscores God's control over nations and history, reminding believers that no earthly power can thwart His purposes.

Faith in Crisis
Hezekiah's reliance on God during a time of national crisis exemplifies the importance of faith and prayer in the face of overwhelming challenges.

The Powerlessness of Idols
Sennacherib's mockery of the gods of other nations highlights the futility of idolatry and the truth that only the God of Israel is able to save.

Divine Deliverance
The eventual deliverance of Jerusalem illustrates God's faithfulness to His people and His ability to rescue them from seemingly impossible situations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Sennacherib's attitude in 2 Chronicles 32:13 reflect the dangers of pride and arrogance? Can you identify other biblical figures who exhibited similar traits?

2. In what ways does Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat demonstrate faith and reliance on God? How can we apply this to our own lives when facing difficulties?

3. How does the account of Sennacherib's invasion and the deliverance of Jerusalem connect with the themes of God's sovereignty and protection found in Psalm 46?

4. What lessons can we learn from the contrast between the powerless gods of the nations and the true God of Israel? How does this apply to modern forms of idolatry?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's deliverance in your life. How does this passage encourage you to trust in God's power and faithfulness in future challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 18-19
Provides a parallel account of Sennacherib's invasion and Hezekiah's response, offering additional details about the events and God's deliverance.

Isaiah 36-37
Another parallel account that includes the prophetic perspective of Isaiah, emphasizing God's sovereignty and the futility of trusting in false gods.

Psalm 46
A psalm of trust in God's protection, often associated with the deliverance of Jerusalem from Sennacherib's siege.