Isaiah 36:4

The Rabshakeh said to them, "Tell Hezekiah that this is what the great king, the king of Assyria, says: What is the basis of this confidence of yours?

Study Bible

The Rabshakeh said to them
The term "Rabshakeh" refers to a high-ranking Assyrian official, likely a chief cupbearer or a military commander. In the context of ancient Near Eastern politics, such officials were often entrusted with significant diplomatic and military responsibilities. The Rabshakeh's role here is to serve as the voice of the Assyrian king, bringing a message intended to intimidate and demoralize. Historically, the Assyrian Empire was known for its military prowess and psychological warfare, often using fear as a tool to subdue nations. This introduction sets the stage for a confrontation not just between armies, but between ideologies and faiths.

Tell Hezekiah
Hezekiah was the king of Judah, known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to reform the religious practices of his people. His reign is marked by a return to the worship of Yahweh and the removal of idolatrous practices. The mention of Hezekiah by name is significant, as it personalizes the message and directly challenges his leadership and faith. In the biblical narrative, Hezekiah represents a godly leader who trusts in the Lord, contrasting with the arrogance and blasphemy of the Assyrian empire.

This is what the great king, the king of Assyria, says
The phrase "the great king, the king of Assyria" is a self-aggrandizing title that reflects the Assyrian monarch's view of himself as the supreme ruler of the known world. Historically, Assyrian kings like Sennacherib were known for their expansive conquests and their belief in their divine right to rule. This title is meant to assert dominance and instill fear, positioning the Assyrian king as an almost god-like figure. In contrast, the biblical narrative consistently emphasizes that true greatness and authority belong to God alone.

On what are you basing this confidence of yours?
This question is a direct challenge to the faith and resolve of Hezekiah and the people of Judah. The Hebrew root for "confidence" (בִּטָּחוֹן, "bittachon") implies trust and reliance, often used in the context of faith in God. The Rabshakeh's question is rhetorical, intended to undermine the confidence of Judah by suggesting that their trust is misplaced. From a scriptural perspective, this moment is a test of faith, highlighting the tension between reliance on worldly power and trust in divine providence. The challenge posed by the Rabshakeh invites reflection on the source of true security and the nature of faith in the face of overwhelming odds.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rabshakeh
A high-ranking Assyrian official and spokesman for King Sennacherib, sent to deliver a message to King Hezekiah and the people of Judah.

2. Hezekiah
The King of Judah during the time of the Assyrian invasion. Known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to reform the religious practices of Judah.

3. Assyria
A powerful empire during the 8th century BC, known for its military might and conquests, including the siege of Jerusalem.

4. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, under threat from the Assyrian army during this event.

5. Sennacherib
The King of Assyria, who sought to conquer Jerusalem and expand his empire.

Teaching Points

Confidence in God vs. Human Power
The Rabshakeh's question challenges the basis of Judah's confidence. Believers today are similarly challenged to place their trust in God rather than in worldly powers or personal abilities.

Faith Under Pressure
Hezekiah's situation teaches us about maintaining faith when facing overwhelming odds. It encourages believers to seek God's guidance and strength in times of crisis.

The Power of Prayer
Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat includes prayer and seeking God's intervention, highlighting the importance of prayer in the believer's life.

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

Spiritual Warfare
The psychological tactics used by the Rabshakeh reflect the spiritual battles believers face, where faith and truth are key defenses against doubt and fear.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the Rabshakeh's question reveal about the Assyrian perspective on power and confidence? How does this contrast with a biblical understanding of where true confidence should lie?

2. How does Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat serve as a model for dealing with crises in our own lives? What practical steps can we take to emulate his faith and reliance on God?

3. In what ways does the account of Hezekiah and the Assyrian siege illustrate the concept of spiritual warfare? How can Ephesians 6:10-18 help us prepare for similar battles?

4. How does the outcome of the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem demonstrate God's sovereignty and faithfulness? What other biblical accounts reinforce this theme?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a situation that seemed insurmountable. How did your faith influence your response, and what did you learn about God's power and provision through that experience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 18-19
Provides a parallel account of the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem and Hezekiah's response, offering additional details and context.

Isaiah 37
Continues the account, showing Hezekiah's prayer and God's deliverance of Jerusalem, emphasizing the power of faith and divine intervention.

Psalm 46
Often associated with this period, it reflects themes of God's protection and the futility of trusting in human power over divine strength.