2 Chronicles 32:22

So the LORD saved Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem from the hands of King Sennacherib of Assyria and all the others, and He gave them rest on every side.

Study Bible

So the LORD saved
The phrase begins with the divine intervention of the LORD, emphasizing His role as the ultimate deliverer. The Hebrew root for "saved" is "yasha," which conveys the idea of deliverance, rescue, and salvation. This word is often used in the Old Testament to describe God's saving acts for His people, highlighting His power and faithfulness. The LORD's salvation is not just a physical rescue but also a spiritual deliverance, pointing to His covenant relationship with Israel.

Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem
Hezekiah, the king of Judah, is noted for his faithfulness and reforms, which included the restoration of proper worship in the temple. The people of Jerusalem, under his leadership, experienced a miraculous deliverance. This phrase underscores the collective experience of both the leader and the people, illustrating the importance of godly leadership and communal faith in God's promises. Historically, Hezekiah's reign was marked by significant challenges, including the Assyrian threat, yet his reliance on God brought about divine intervention.

from the hand of Sennacherib king of Assyria
Sennacherib was a powerful Assyrian king known for his military campaigns and conquests. The "hand" symbolizes power and control, and being delivered from Sennacherib's hand signifies liberation from oppression and imminent destruction. Archaeological findings, such as the Taylor Prism, corroborate the biblical account of Sennacherib's invasion and his boastful claims, yet the Bible records his failure to capture Jerusalem, attributing it to God's intervention.

and from the hand of all others
This phrase extends the scope of deliverance beyond Sennacherib to include any other potential threats. It emphasizes God's comprehensive protection over His people, ensuring their safety from all adversaries. The inclusion of "all others" serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over all nations and powers, reinforcing the theme that no enemy is too great for God to overcome.

He gave them rest on every side
The concept of "rest" in the Hebrew context, derived from "nuach," implies peace, security, and cessation from conflict. This rest is a divine gift, reflecting the fulfillment of God's promises to His people. Historically, this period of rest allowed Judah to recover and strengthen after the Assyrian threat. The phrase "on every side" suggests a complete and encompassing peace, symbolizing God's total provision and care for His people. This rest foreshadows the ultimate rest found in Christ, who offers spiritual peace and reconciliation with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hezekiah
The King of Judah who trusted in the LORD during the Assyrian siege. His faith and leadership were pivotal in the deliverance of Jerusalem.

2. Sennacherib
The King of Assyria who invaded Judah and threatened Jerusalem. His defeat demonstrated God's power over earthly kings.

3. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, which was under siege by the Assyrian army. It was miraculously delivered by God's intervention.

4. The LORD
The God of Israel, who delivered Hezekiah and Jerusalem from their enemies, showcasing His sovereignty and faithfulness.

5. Assyria
A powerful empire during this period, known for its military might and conquests. Its defeat was a significant event in the history of Judah.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Deliverance
Hezekiah's reliance on God during a crisis is a model for believers. In times of trouble, we should turn to God in prayer and trust His power to save.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The defeat of Sennacherib illustrates that no earthly power can thwart God's plans. Believers can find peace knowing that God is in control of world events.

The Power of Prayer
Hezekiah's prayer was instrumental in the deliverance of Jerusalem. This underscores the importance of prayer in seeking God's intervention in our lives.

Rest in God's Provision
The rest given to Jerusalem after the siege is a reminder that God not only delivers but also provides peace. We can find rest in God's promises and faithfulness.

God's Faithfulness to His People
The deliverance of Jerusalem is a testament to God's covenant faithfulness. Believers can be assured that God remains faithful to His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat challenge us to respond to crises in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the account of Jerusalem's deliverance encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty over current world events?

3. How can we incorporate the power of prayer, as demonstrated by Hezekiah, into our daily lives?

4. What does the concept of "rest on every side" mean for us today, and how can we experience this rest in our spiritual journey?

5. How does God's faithfulness in delivering Jerusalem inspire us to remain faithful in our relationship with Him, even when facing overwhelming challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 19
This chapter provides a parallel account of the events, offering additional details about Hezekiah's prayer and God's response.

Isaiah 37
Isaiah's prophecy and involvement in the events surrounding the Assyrian siege are detailed here, emphasizing the role of prophetic guidance.

Psalm 46
Often associated with this event, it speaks of God as a refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble, reflecting the deliverance experienced by Jerusalem.

Exodus 14
The deliverance of Israel from Egypt parallels the deliverance of Jerusalem, highlighting God's consistent protection of His people.