2 Kings 17:27

Then the king of Assyria commanded: "Send back one of the priests you carried off from Samaria, and have him go back to live there and teach the requirements of the God of the land."

Study Bible

Then the king of Assyria
This phrase introduces the central figure of authority in this narrative, the king of Assyria. Historically, the Assyrian Empire was a dominant force in the ancient Near East, known for its military prowess and expansive conquests. The king of Assyria at this time was likely Shalmaneser V or Sargon II, who played pivotal roles in the conquest and exile of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. The Assyrian kings were seen as instruments of God's judgment against Israel due to their persistent idolatry and disobedience.

commanded
The Hebrew root for "commanded" is צָוָה (tsavah), which implies a directive given with authority and expectation of obedience. This reflects the absolute power wielded by the Assyrian king over his subjects and territories. In a broader theological context, it also serves as a reminder of God's sovereign control over the nations, using even foreign rulers to accomplish His divine purposes.

Send back one of the priests
This phrase indicates a specific action taken by the Assyrian king to address a problem in the newly conquered land. The sending back of a priest suggests an attempt to restore religious order and appease the local deity, which in this context is the God of Israel. It highlights the ancient practice of syncretism, where conquering powers would often incorporate local religious practices to maintain peace and stability.

you deported
The term "deported" refers to the forced relocation of the Israelites by the Assyrians, a common practice used to prevent rebellion and assimilate conquered peoples. This action fulfilled the prophetic warnings given to Israel about the consequences of their unfaithfulness. The deportation was not just a physical removal but also a spiritual and cultural dislocation, emphasizing the severity of Israel's judgment.

from Samaria
Samaria was the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel and a significant cultural and religious center. Its mention here underscores the loss of national identity and autonomy for the Israelites. Samaria's fall was a pivotal moment in Israel's history, marking the end of the Northern Kingdom and serving as a cautionary tale of the dangers of turning away from God.

to live there
The phrase "to live there" implies a return to the land with the purpose of dwelling and establishing a presence. This action was intended to reintroduce the worship of the God of Israel in the land, which had been disrupted by the Assyrian conquest. It reflects the enduring connection between the people of Israel and their God, despite their physical displacement.

and teach them
The act of teaching here is crucial, as it involves instructing the new inhabitants of the land in the ways and laws of the God of Israel. The Hebrew root for "teach" is לָמַד (lamad), which conveys the idea of learning through instruction and practice. This highlights the importance of knowledge and understanding in maintaining a covenant relationship with God.

the requirements of the God of the land
This phrase emphasizes the necessity of adhering to the specific religious and moral obligations associated with the worship of the God of Israel. The "requirements" refer to the laws and commandments given by God, which were meant to guide the Israelites in their daily lives and ensure their distinctiveness as His chosen people. The acknowledgment of God as "the God of the land" underscores His sovereignty over all creation and His rightful claim to worship and obedience from all who dwell in the land.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King of Assyria
The ruler who conquered the Northern Kingdom of Israel and deported its people. He is responsible for the resettlement of foreign peoples in Samaria.

2. Samaria
The capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, which fell to the Assyrians. It became a melting pot of different cultures and religions after the Assyrian conquest.

3. Priests
Religious leaders from Israel who were taken captive. One was sent back to teach the new inhabitants about the God of Israel.

4. God of the Land
Refers to Yahweh, the God of Israel, whose laws and requirements were to be taught to the new inhabitants of Samaria.

5. Assyrian Resettlement Policy
A strategy used by the Assyrians to control conquered territories by relocating different peoples, which led to a mix of religious practices.

Teaching Points

The Importance of True Worship
Understanding and following God's requirements is crucial for true worship. The priest's role was to teach the new inhabitants about Yahweh, emphasizing the need for correct worship practices.

Consequences of Disobedience
The fall of Samaria serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from God. It reminds us to remain faithful and obedient to God's commands.

Cultural and Religious Syncretism
The mixing of different religious practices in Samaria illustrates the dangers of syncretism. Believers are called to maintain the purity of their faith amidst diverse cultural influences.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The events in 2 Kings 17 demonstrate God's control over nations and history. Despite human actions, God's purposes prevail, and He uses even foreign rulers to accomplish His will.

The Role of Spiritual Leaders
The priest's mission to teach God's requirements highlights the responsibility of spiritual leaders to guide others in understanding and living out their faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Assyrian resettlement policy in Samaria illustrate the challenges of maintaining religious purity in a multicultural society?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship remains true to God's requirements, avoiding the pitfalls of syncretism?

3. Reflect on a time when you faced consequences for disobedience. How does this passage encourage you to remain faithful to God's commands?

4. How can spiritual leaders today effectively teach and guide their communities in understanding God's requirements?

5. Considering God's sovereignty over nations, how can we trust in His control over current world events and our personal lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 17:24-41
Provides context for the events, describing how the Assyrians resettled people in Samaria and the resulting syncretism in religious practices.

Leviticus 18:26-30
Highlights the importance of following God's statutes and the consequences of failing to do so, which is relevant to the teaching of God's requirements to the new inhabitants.

Ezra 4:1-2
Shows the long-term effects of the Assyrian resettlement, as the mixed population of Samaria later opposed the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem.