2 Kings 17:24

Then the king of Assyria brought people from Babylon, Cuthah, Avva, Hamath, and Sepharvaim and settled them in the towns of Samaria to replace the Israelites. They took possession of Samaria and lived in its towns.

Study Bible

Then the king of Assyria
The phrase refers to the Assyrian monarch, likely King Sargon II, who reigned during the late 8th century BC. The Assyrian Empire was known for its military prowess and expansionist policies. Historically, Assyria was a dominant force in the ancient Near East, and its kings were often seen as instruments of God's judgment against Israel for their disobedience.

brought people from Babylon, Cuthah, Avva, Hamath, and Sepharvaim
This action of relocating people was a common Assyrian practice known as population exchange or resettlement. It was intended to prevent rebellion by diluting national identities. Babylon, Cuthah, Avva, Hamath, and Sepharvaim were regions within the Assyrian Empire, each with its own distinct culture and religious practices. This mix of peoples would have brought a variety of pagan beliefs and customs into Samaria, further complicating the religious landscape.

and settled them in the towns of Samaria
Samaria was the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. By settling foreign peoples there, the Assyrians aimed to erase the distinct identity of the Israelites. This act fulfilled God's warnings through the prophets that Israel would be removed from the land due to their idolatry and covenant unfaithfulness.

to replace the Israelites
The replacement of the Israelites signifies the completion of God's judgment upon the Northern Kingdom. The Israelites had repeatedly turned away from God, and this displacement was a direct consequence of their actions. It serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of covenant faithfulness.

They took over Samaria and lived in its towns
The new inhabitants not only occupied the land but also assumed control over its cities and infrastructure. This occupation led to the syncretism of religious practices, as these settlers brought their gods and rituals with them. The resulting cultural and religious blend set the stage for the later tensions between Jews and Samaritans, as seen in the New Testament.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King of Assyria
The ruler responsible for the relocation of various peoples into Samaria, demonstrating the Assyrian policy of resettlement to maintain control over conquered territories.

2. Babylon
A significant city and region in Mesopotamia, known for its influence and power in the ancient world.

3. Cuthah
A city in Mesopotamia, associated with the worship of Nergal, a deity of the underworld.

4. Avva
A location whose exact historical and geographical details are less clear, but it is mentioned as a source of people resettled in Samaria.

5. Hamath and Sepharvaim
Cities in Syria, known for their own distinct cultures and religious practices, contributing to the diverse mix of peoples in Samaria.

6. Samaria
The capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, which fell to the Assyrians, leading to the resettlement described in this verse.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
The resettlement of foreign peoples in Samaria is a direct result of Israel's disobedience. This serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the consequences of turning away from His commandments.

Cultural and Religious Syncretism
The introduction of various peoples and their gods into Samaria led to a blending of religious practices, which can serve as a warning against compromising faith with worldly influences.

The Importance of Faithfulness
The Israelites' failure to remain faithful to God resulted in their displacement. This underscores the importance of steadfastness in our own spiritual walk.

God's Plan for Redemption
Despite the judgment, God's overarching plan includes redemption and restoration, as seen in the eventual coming of Christ, who breaks down barriers between peoples.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the resettlement of foreign peoples in Samaria illustrate the consequences of Israel's disobedience to God?

2. In what ways can the cultural and religious syncretism seen in Samaria serve as a warning for Christians today?

3. How does the animosity between Jews and Samaritans, as seen in the New Testament, trace back to the events of 2 Kings 17:24?

4. What does this passage teach us about God's sovereignty and justice, and how can we apply this understanding to our lives?

5. How can the account of Samaria's resettlement encourage us to remain faithful to God amidst a world of diverse beliefs and practices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 17:6
Provides context for the fall of Samaria and the exile of the Israelites, setting the stage for the events in verse 24.

Ezra 4:2
References the descendants of these resettled peoples, who later opposed the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem, showing the long-term impact of this resettlement.

John 4:9
Highlights the animosity between Jews and Samaritans, a tension rooted in the historical events of 2 Kings 17:24.