You claim to have a strategy and strength for war, but these are empty words. In whom are you now trusting, that you have rebelled against me? You claim to have a strategy and strength for warThis phrase is a direct challenge to the confidence and military prowess of Hezekiah, the king of Judah. The Hebrew word for "strategy" (עֵצָה, 'etsah) often implies counsel or wisdom, suggesting that Hezekiah's plans are being scrutinized for their lack of divine guidance. The term "strength" (גְּבוּרָה, geburah) refers to might or power, often associated with human or military capability. Historically, this reflects the Assyrian perspective, as they were known for their formidable military force and often viewed other nations' defenses as inadequate. The phrase underscores the futility of relying solely on human wisdom and strength without seeking God's guidance. but these are empty words
The Hebrew term for "empty" (שְׂפָתַיִם, sephatayim) can also mean vain or idle, indicating that the Assyrian envoy perceives Hezekiah's declarations as lacking substance or truth. This reflects a common biblical theme where human boasts are contrasted with divine reality. The historical context here is crucial, as the Assyrians were known for their psychological warfare, aiming to demoralize their opponents by undermining their confidence. In whom are you now trusting
Trust (בָּטַח, batach) is a central theme in the Hebrew Bible, often associated with faith and reliance on God. This question challenges Hezekiah's faith and the object of his trust. In the broader scriptural context, trust in God is portrayed as the foundation of Israel's strength and security. The Assyrian envoy's question is rhetorical, intended to sow doubt and fear, yet it inadvertently highlights the critical issue of faith and dependence on God versus reliance on human alliances or resources. that you have rebelled against me?
The act of rebellion (מָרַד, marad) in the ancient Near Eastern context was a serious offense, often leading to severe consequences. Historically, vassal states like Judah were expected to remain loyal to their suzerain, in this case, Assyria. The rebellion mentioned here refers to Hezekiah's refusal to continue paying tribute to Assyria, an act of defiance that was both political and spiritual. Scripturally, rebellion against oppressive powers is sometimes depicted as an act of faithfulness to God, who is the ultimate authority. This phrase challenges the reader to consider the nature of true allegiance and the courage required to stand firm in one's convictions, even in the face of overwhelming opposition. Persons / Places / Events 1. HezekiahThe King of Judah who is known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to rid Judah of idolatry. He is the central figure in this chapter, facing the threat from Assyria. 2. SennacheribThe King of Assyria, who invades Judah and sends his officials to intimidate Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem. 3. RabshakehThe Assyrian field commander who delivers the message of intimidation to Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem, questioning their reliance on God. 4. JerusalemThe capital city of Judah, under siege by the Assyrian army during this event. 5. AssyriaA powerful empire during this time, known for its military strength and conquests, posing a significant threat to Judah. Teaching Points Trust in God Over Human StrengthHezekiah's situation reminds us that true strength and strategy come from reliance on God, not merely human efforts or alliances. The Power of Faithful LeadershipHezekiah's faithfulness to God sets an example for leaders today, showing the importance of leading with integrity and trust in divine guidance. Facing Intimidation with FaithThe Assyrian threats serve as a reminder that believers may face intimidation, but faith in God provides the courage to stand firm. God's Sovereignty in DeliveranceThe account underscores God's ability to deliver His people from seemingly insurmountable odds, encouraging believers to trust in His sovereignty. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat demonstrate his faith in God, and what can we learn from his example when facing our own challenges? 2. In what ways does the Assyrian commander's message attempt to undermine the faith of the people of Jerusalem, and how can we guard against similar attacks on our faith today? 3. How does the parallel account in Isaiah 36-37 enhance our understanding of Hezekiah's trust in God, and what additional insights does it provide? 4. Reflect on a time when you faced a situation that seemed overwhelming. How did your faith in God influence your response, and what was the outcome? 5. Considering Psalm 20:7, how can we apply the principle of trusting in God rather than human strength in our daily lives, especially in times of crisis? Connections to Other Scriptures Isaiah 36-37These chapters parallel the events of 2 Kings 18-19, providing additional details and insights into the Assyrian threat and Hezekiah's response. 2 Chronicles 32Offers another account of Hezekiah's reign and the Assyrian invasion, emphasizing Hezekiah's faith and God's deliverance. Psalm 20:7Highlights the theme of trusting in God rather than in military might or human strength, which is central to Hezekiah's situation. People Abi, Abijah, Ahaz, Asaph, David, Elah, Eliakim, Hezekiah, Hilkiah, Hoshea, Israelites, Joah, Pharaoh, Rabsaris, Rabshakeh, Sennacherib, Shalmaneser, Shebna, Tartan, Zachariah, ZechariahPlaces Arpad, Assyria, Egypt, Gaza, Gozan, Habor River, Halah, Hamath, Hena, Ivvah, Jerusalem, Lachish, Samaria, Sepharvaim, Washer's FieldTopics Authority, Battle, Counsel, Depending, Design, Empty, Hast, Lips, Mere, Military, Power, Rebel, Rebelled, Rebellest, Rely, Revolted, Sayest, Speak, Strategy, Strength, Support, Trust, Trusted, Vain, WarDictionary of Bible Themes 2 Kings 18:20 5845 emptiness 2 Kings 18:13-35 7240 Jerusalem, history 2 Kings 18:17-35 8833 threats 2 Kings 18:19-22 8787 opposition, to God 2 Kings 18:19-25 8027 faith, testing of 2 Kings 18:20-21 8224 dependence Library Hezekiah, a Pattern of Devout Life
'Hezekiah trusted in the Lord God of Israel.... 6. He clave to the Lord, and departed not from following Him, but kept His commandments.'--2 KINGS xviii. 5,6. Devout people in all ages and stations are very much like each other. The elements of godliness are always the same. This king of Israel, something like two thousand six hundred years ago, and the humblest Christian to-day have the family likeness on their faces. These words, which are an outline sketch of the king's character, are really …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScriptureThe Woman of Samaria
(Twelfth Sunday after Trinity, 1856.) 2 Kings xviii. 9-12. And it came to pass in the fourth year of King Hezekiah, which was the seventh year of Hoshea son of Elah king of Israel, that Shalmaneser, king of Assyria, came up against Samaria, and besieged it. And at the end of three years they took it: even in the sixth year of Hezekiah, that is the ninth year of Hoshea king of Israel, Samaria was taken. And the king of Assyria did carry away Israel unto Assyria, and put them in Halah and in Habor …
Charles Kingsley—Town and Country Sermons A Living Book
[Illustration: (drop cap T) Symbol of "Asshur", the principal Assyrian idol.] There is only one Book that never grows old. For thousands of years men have been writing books. Most books are forgotten soon after they are written; a few of the best and wisest are remembered for a time. But all at last grow old; new discoveries are made; new ideas arise; the old books are out of date; their usefulness is at an end. Students are the only people who still care to read them. The nations to which the …
Mildred Duff—The Bible in its Making The Old Testament and Archeology
A century ago the student of the world's history found it exceedingly difficult, if not impossible, to paint for himself a clear picture of events antedating B.C. 400. Concerning earlier periods, he was, aside from the Old Testament, practically without records that could claim contemporaneousness with the events recorded. But, one hundred years ago, men had commenced to test every statement, be it historical, or scientific, or theological, by severe canons of criticism, and if it could not stand …
Frederick Carl Eiselen—The Christian View of the Old Testament Gihon, the Same with the Fountain of Siloam.
I. In 1 Kings 1:33,38, that which is, in the Hebrew, "Bring ye Solomon to Gihon: and they brought him to Gihon"; is rendered by the Chaldee, "Bring ye him to Siloam: and they brought him to Siloam." Where Kimchi thus; "Gihon is Siloam, and it is called by a double name. And David commanded, that they should anoint Solomon at Gihon for a good omen, to wit, that, as the waters of the fountain are everlasting, so might his kingdom be." So also the Jerusalem writers; "They do not anoint the king, but …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica Sargon of Assyria (722-705 B. C. )
SARGON AS A WARRIOR AND AS A BUILDER. The origin of Sargon II.: the revolt of Babylon, Merodach-baladan and Elam--The kingdom of Elam from the time of the first Babylonian empire; the conquest's of Shutruh-nalkunta I.; the princes of Malamir--The first encounter of Assyria and Elam, the battle of Durilu (721 B.C.)--Revolt of Syria, Iaubidi of Hamath and Hannon of Gaza--Bocchoris and the XXIVth Egyptian dynasty; the first encounter of Assyria with Egypt, the battle of Raphia (720 B.C.). Urartu …
G. Maspero—History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 7 General Principles of Interpretation. 1 Since the Bible Addresses Men in Human Language...
CHAPTER XXXIV. GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF INTERPRETATION. 1. Since the Bible addresses men in human language, and according to human modes of thinking and speaking, the interpreter's first work is to ascertain the meaning of the terms employed. Here he must proceed as in the case of other writings, seeking by the aid of grammars, lexicons, cognate languages, ancient versions, ancient interpreters, and whatever other outward helps are available, to gain a thorough knowledge of the language employed by …
E. P. Barrows—Companion to the Bible Sennacherib (705-681 B. C. )
The struggle of Sennacherib with Judaea and Egypt--Destruction of Babylon. Sennacherib either failed to inherit his father's good fortune, or lacked his ability.* He was not deficient in military genius, nor in the energy necessary to withstand the various enemies who rose against him at widely removed points of his frontier, but he had neither the adaptability of character nor the delicate tact required to manage successfully the heterogeneous elements combined under his sway. * The two principal …
G. Maspero—History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 8 The History Books
[Illustration: (drop cap T) Assyrian idol-god] Thus little by little the Book of God grew, and the people He had chosen to be its guardians took their place among the nations. A small place it was from one point of view! A narrow strip of land, but unique in its position as one of the highways of the world, on which a few tribes were banded together. All around great empires watched them with eager eyes; the powerful kings of Assyria, Egypt, and Babylonia, the learned Greeks, and, in later times, …
Mildred Duff—The Bible in its Making Kings
The book[1] of Kings is strikingly unlike any modern historical narrative. Its comparative brevity, its curious perspective, and-with some brilliant exceptions--its relative monotony, are obvious to the most cursory perusal, and to understand these things is, in large measure, to understand the book. It covers a period of no less than four centuries. Beginning with the death of David and the accession of Solomon (1 Kings i., ii.) it traverses his reign with considerable fulness (1 Kings iii.-xi.), …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links 2 Kings 18:20 NIV2 Kings 18:20 NLT2 Kings 18:20 ESV2 Kings 18:20 NASB2 Kings 18:20 KJV
2 Kings 18:20 Commentaries
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