Asenappar, also known as Ashurbanipal, is a figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Ezra. He is identified as a king of Assyria, and his name appears in the context of the resettlement of peoples in the region of Samaria. The reference to Asenappar is found in Ezra 4:10, where it is noted that he deported various groups to the cities of Samaria and beyond the River (Euphrates).

Biblical Reference:
Ezra 4:10 states: "and the rest of the nations that the great and noble Asenappar deported and settled in the cities of Samaria and elsewhere beyond the River."

Historical Context:
Asenappar is widely identified with Ashurbanipal, one of the last great kings of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, who reigned from 668 to 627 BC. Ashurbanipal is known for his military campaigns, extensive library, and the expansion of the Assyrian Empire. His reign was marked by significant cultural and architectural achievements, as well as the consolidation of Assyrian power.

Role in Biblical Narrative:
In the biblical narrative, Asenappar's actions are part of the larger Assyrian policy of deportation and resettlement, which aimed to control conquered territories by displacing local populations and replacing them with people from other regions. This policy is significant in the history of Israel and Judah, as it contributed to the mixing of populations in Samaria, leading to the emergence of the Samaritans, a group with distinct religious practices and beliefs.

Theological Significance:
From a theological perspective, the mention of Asenappar in the Bible highlights the sovereignty of God over the nations and the fulfillment of His purposes through historical events. The Assyrian deportations, including those carried out by Asenappar, were part of the divine judgment on the Northern Kingdom of Israel for their idolatry and disobedience. This serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments and the importance of faithfulness to His covenant.

Cultural and Archaeological Insights:
Archaeological discoveries, such as the library of Ashurbanipal in Nineveh, provide valuable insights into the Assyrian Empire's culture, administration, and interactions with other nations. These findings corroborate the biblical account of Assyrian influence and the historical context of the events described in the book of Ezra.

In summary, Asenappar, or Ashurbanipal, is a significant historical figure whose actions had lasting impacts on the biblical lands and peoples. His mention in the Bible underscores the interplay between divine providence and human history, illustrating the unfolding of God's plan through the rise and fall of empires.620. Asenappar -- an Assyrian king
... 619, 620. Asenappar. 621 . an Assyrian king. Transliteration: Asenappar Phonetic
Spelling: (os-nap-par') Short Definition: Osnappar. ... Asenappar. 621 . ...
/hebrew/620.htm - 5kAsenappar (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Asenappar (1 Occurrence). Ezra 4:10 and the rest
of the nations whom the great and noble Osnappar brought ...
/a/asenappar.htm - 6k

Asenath (3 Occurrences)

/a/asenath.htm - 8k

Asebias

/a/asebias.htm - 6k

Sama'ria (102 Occurrences)
... Ezra 4:10 and the rest of the nations whom the great and noble Asenappar brought
over, and set in the city of Samaria, and the rest that are in the country ...
/s/sama'ria.htm - 34k

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