◄ Isaiah 36 ►
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Sennacherib Threatens Jerusalem (2 Kings 18:13–37; 2 Chronicles 32:1–8) 1In the fourteenth year of Hezekiah’s reign, Sennacherib king of Assyria attacked and captured all the fortified cities of Judah. 2And the king of Assyria sent the Rabshakeh,a with a great army, from Lachish to King Hezekiah at Jerusalem. And he stopped by the aqueduct of the upper pool, on the road to the Launderer’s Field. 3Then Eliakim son of Hilkiah the palace administrator, Shebna the scribe, and Joah son of Asaph the recorder, went out to him. 4The 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? 5You claim to haveb a strategy and strength for war, but these are empty words. In whom are you now trusting, that you have rebelled against me? 6Look now, you are trusting in Egypt, that splintered reed of a staff that will pierce the hand of anyone who leans on it. Such is Pharaoh king of Egypt to all who trust in him. 7But if you say to me, ‘We trust in the LORD our God,’ is He not the One whose high places and altars Hezekiah has removed, saying to Judah and Jerusalem, ‘You must worship before this altar’? 8Now, therefore, make a bargain with my master, the king of Assyria. I will give you two thousand horses—if you can put riders on them! 9For how can you repel a single officer among the least of my master’s servants when you depend on Egypt for chariots and horsemen? 10So now, was it apart from the LORD that I have come up against this land to destroy it? The LORD Himself said to me, ‘Go up against this land and destroy it.’” 11Then Eliakim, Shebna, and Joah said to the Rabshakeh, “Please speak to your servants in Aramaic, since we understand it. Do not speak to us in Hebrewc in the hearing of the people on the wall.” 12But the Rabshakeh replied, “Has my master sent me to speak these words only to you and your master, and not to the men sitting on the wall, who are destined with you to eat their own dung and drink their own urine?” 13Then the Rabshakeh stood and called out loudly in Hebrew: “Hear the words of the great king, the king of Assyria! 14This is what the king says: Do not let Hezekiah deceive you, for he cannot deliver you. 15Do not let Hezekiah persuade you to trust in the LORD when he says, ‘The LORD will surely deliver us; this city will not be given into the hand of the king of Assyria.’ 16Do not listen to Hezekiah, for this is what the king of Assyria says: Make peace with med and come out to me. Then every one of you will eat from his own vine and his own fig tree, and drink water from his own cistern, 17until I come and take you away to a land like your own—a land of grain and new wine, a land of bread and vineyards. 18Do not let Hezekiah mislead you when he says, ‘The LORD will deliver us.’ Has the god of any nation ever delivered his land from the hand of the king of Assyria? 19Where are the gods of Hamath and Arpad? Where are the gods of Sepharvaim? Have they delivered Samaria from my hand? 20Who among all the gods of these lands has delivered his land from my hand? How then can the LORD deliver Jerusalem from my hand?” 21But the people remained silent and did not answer a word, for Hezekiah had commanded, “Do not answer him.” 22Then Hilkiah’s son Eliakim the palace administrator, Shebna the scribe, and Asaph’s son Joah the recorder came to Hezekiah with their clothes torn, and they relayed to him the words of the Rabshakeh. Footnotes: 2 a Hebrew Rabshakeh is the title of a high-ranking Assyrian military officer; here and throughout chapters 36 and 37, as well as 2 Kings 18 and 19 5 b Literally You speak; see DSS and 2 Kings 18:20; MT I speak. 11 c Or in the dialect of Judah; also in verse 13 16 d Or Make a blessing with me Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Isaiah 36 Summary Sennacherib Threatens Jerusalem Verses 1–3 – The Assyrian Threat Arrives In Hezekiah’s fourteenth year, Sennacherib storms through Judah, seizing every strong town. From freshly conquered Lachish he sends his field commander, the Rabshakeh, to Jerusalem. The emissary sets up at the aqueduct of the Upper Pool—right where Isaiah once met Hezekiah’s father, Ahaz—forcing three high-ranking officials (Eliakim, Shebna, and Joah) to appear. Verses 4–10 – Rabshakeh’s Challenge The Rabshakeh mocks Judah’s military weakness, ridicules its Egyptian alliance, and twists Hezekiah’s own reforms by claiming the king offended the LORD. He even insists, “I have come up against this land by the LORD’s approval” (v. 10). Verses 11–12 – The Loud Message to All Judah’s leaders beg the envoy to speak Aramaic—diplomatic language unknown to commoners—but he shouts louder in Hebrew so every soldier on the wall can hear the threat meant to break their spirits. Verses 13–17 – Appeals to Doubt Standing tall, the Rabshakeh urges the people to stop trusting Hezekiah, promising comfortable exile if they surrender. He keeps repeating: “Do not let Hezekiah deceive you… Do not let Hezekiah make you trust in the LORD” (vv. 14–15). Verses 18–20 – Boasting Against the LORD He points to nations already crushed—Hamath, Arpad, Sepharvaim—and taunts, “Who of all the gods of these lands has delivered his land out of my hand?” (v. 20). His final boast sets the stage for direct conflict with the living God. Verses 21–22 – Judah’s Silence and Report Obeying Hezekiah’s order, the officials answer nothing. Clothes torn in grief, they return and relay every word to their king. Isaiah 36 chronicles a pivotal episode in the history of Judah, detailing the confrontation between Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, and Hezekiah, the king of Judah. This chapter serves as a profound exploration of faith, courage, and divine reliance amidst fear and intimidation. Historical Setting: The Fourteenth Year of King Hezekiah • Approx. 701 BC. Assyria, at the height of its power, has already deported the Northern Kingdom (2 Kings 17). Jerusalem stands alone. • Hezekiah’s sweeping reforms (2 Kings 18:3–6) have redirected worship solely to the LORD, dismantling high places once tolerated. • The chapter begins the four-chapter “Hezekiah narrative” (Isaiah 36–39) that shifts from prophetic poetry to historical prose, showing how faith plays out on the ground. Key People and Places • Sennacherib – ruthless king renowned for building projects and military skill. • Lachish – Judah’s second-most-important city, now Assyria’s forward base; its siege is immortalized on palace reliefs discovered in Nineveh. • The Upper Pool / Launderer’s Field – identical site to Isaiah 7:3, linking Ahaz’s fear then to Hezekiah’s test now. • Eliakim, Shebna, Joah – palace administrator, court secretary, and royal historian. Their presence underlines official gravity. The Rabshakeh’s Speeches and Ancient Diplomatic Customs • “Rabshakeh” is a title (“chief cupbearer” or “field commander”). Such envoys used public sermons to demoralize cities before assault. • Switching languages was common; using Hebrew aimed to sow panic and erode loyalty (cf. 2 Chronicles 32:18). • His three-part message: 1) You can’t rely on military strength. 2) You can’t rely on Egypt. 3) You can’t rely on the LORD. Each point is strategically designed to dismantle every pillar of confidence. Language and Literary Features • Repetition of “do not let Hezekiah deceive you” drives fear. • Mocking questions (“Where are the gods of Hamath and Arpad?”) contrast dead idols with the living LORD, preparing for chapter 37’s divine reply. • The scene is all dialogue and tension—no prophetic commentary yet—inviting readers to feel the suspense. Theology: Trust in the LORD vs. Trust in Man • Hezekiah’s silence mirrors Isaiah’s call: “In quietness and trust is your strength” (Isaiah 30:15). • The chapter illustrates Psalm 20:7—“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.” • The Rabshakeh unknowingly challenges God Himself; the following chapter shows whose word stands (cf. Isaiah 55:11). Archaeological Insights • Lachish Reliefs: Excavated panels depict Assyrian siege ramps, battering rams, and deportations—visually confirming Isaiah 36:1–2. • Sennacherib Prism (Taylor Prism): The king boasts of shutting Hezekiah “like a caged bird” in Jerusalem, matching the biblical account while omitting his failure to capture the city. • The broad wall in Jerusalem (over 20 ft/6 m thick) dates to Hezekiah’s time, consistent with his preparations for siege (2 Chronicles 32:5). • Hezekiah’s Tunnel diverts water from the Gihon Spring to the Pool of Siloam, giving context to the conversation near the aqueduct. Connections to the Broader Narrative of Isaiah • Chapters 7–12 warned Ahaz not to lean on Assyria; now Judah faces the fruit of earlier compromises. • The contrast between chapters 34–35 (judgment on the nations, promise of a highway of holiness) and 36–37 (real-time rescue) shows prophecy meeting history. • Isaiah 1:18 invited Judah, “Come now, let us reason together.” Rabshakeh offers a counterfeit reasoning session. Links to Other Scriptures • 2 Kings 18:13–37 and 2 Chronicles 32:1–19 run parallel, adding details such as Hezekiah’s earlier tribute payout. • Psalm 46 likely springs from this crisis: “God is our refuge and strength… therefore we will not fear.” • Micah 1:13 mentions Lachish as the “beginning of sin” to Zion, spotlighting why it falls first. Practical Application for Today • Loud voices still urge surrender—whether culture, fear, or doubt. The answer is not clever words but steadfast trust. • Silence can be faith in action: refusing to engage on the enemy’s terms and taking concerns straight to God (37:1,14). • God’s past faithfulness (recorded in archaeology, history, and Scripture) undergirds present confidence. Outline of the Larger Siege Narrative (Isaiah 36–39) 1. Assyrian Threat & Rabshakeh’s Speech (36) 2. Hezekiah Seeks the LORD, Assyria Overthrown (37) 3. Hezekiah’s Illness and Recovery (38) 4. Visit of Babylonian Envoys & Future Exile Foretold (39) Isaiah 36 opens the drama by placing trust on trial, setting the stage for God’s decisive answer in the chapters that follow. Connections to Additional Scriptures 2 Kings 18:13-37 Provides a parallel account of the events in Isaiah 36, offering additional insights into the historical context. Psalm 46:1-3 A reminder of God as our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Ephesians 6:10-18 Encourages believers to put on the full armor of God to stand against the schemes of the devil. 2 Chronicles 32:7-8 Hezekiah’s encouragement to the people to be strong and courageous, trusting that God is greater than any earthly army. Teaching Points Historical Context Isaiah 36 occurs during the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah, when the Assyrian king Sennacherib invades Judah. This chapter is a historical narrative that parallels 2 Kings 18:13-37. The Assyrian Threat The Assyrian field commander, the Rabshakeh, delivers a message to Jerusalem, attempting to undermine their confidence in God and King Hezekiah. He questions their reliance on Egypt and their trust in the Lord (Isaiah 36:4-7). Psychological Warfare The Rabshakeh uses psychological tactics, speaking in Hebrew to ensure that all the people of Jerusalem hear his threats and promises, aiming to sow doubt and fear (Isaiah 36:11-12). Challenge to Faith The Rabshakeh challenges the people’s faith directly, claiming that the Lord Himself has commanded the destruction of Jerusalem (Isaiah 36:10). This is a direct attack on their belief in God's protection. Response of Hezekiah’s Officials The officials, Eliakim, Shebna, and Joah, remain silent and do not respond to the Rabshakeh’s provocations, following King Hezekiah’s command (Isaiah 36:21). Practical Applications Trust in God’s Sovereignty When faced with threats or intimidation, remember that God is in control. Earthly powers may seem overwhelming, but God’s plans will prevail. Guard Your Heart and Mind Be aware of the tactics used to instill fear and doubt. Stand firm in your faith and do not be swayed by voices that contradict God’s promises. Seek Godly Counsel Like Hezekiah’s officials, seek guidance from spiritual leaders and remain steadfast in obedience to God’s instructions. Silence in the Face of Provocation Sometimes, the best response to provocation is silence and prayer, trusting God to fight the battle. People 1. King Hezekiah Hezekiah is the king of Judah during the time of the Assyrian invasion. He is known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to reform the religious practices in Judah. In Isaiah 36, he is faced with the threat from the Assyrian king and seeks guidance from the prophet Isaiah. 2. Sennacherib Sennacherib is the king of Assyria who invades Judah. He is known for his military campaigns and attempts to conquer Jerusalem. In Isaiah 36, he sends his officials to demand the surrender of Jerusalem. 3. Rabshakeh Rabshakeh is the chief cupbearer or high-ranking official sent by Sennacherib to deliver a message to King Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem. He speaks in Hebrew to intimidate the people and persuade them to surrender. The term "Rabshakeh" is derived from the Akkadian title for a high-ranking Assyrian official. 4. Eliakim son of Hilkiah Eliakim is the palace administrator or steward under King Hezekiah. He is one of the officials who meets with Rabshakeh to hear the Assyrian demands. His role indicates his high position in Hezekiah's court. 5. Shebna Shebna is the scribe or secretary under King Hezekiah. He is present during the meeting with Rabshakeh and is responsible for recording the events and communications. His position suggests he is an important advisor to the king. 6. Joah son of Asaph Joah is the recorder or chronicler under King Hezekiah. He is also present during the meeting with Rabshakeh. His role involves documenting the official records and events of the kingdom. Places 1. Jerusalem Jerusalem is the central city in this chapter, where King Hezekiah reigns. It is the capital of Judah and a significant location in biblical history, often symbolizing the heart of the Jewish faith and God's presence among His people. 2. Lachish Lachish is a city in Judah that was an important military and administrative center. In Isaiah 36, the Assyrian king Sennacherib is depicted as having his army stationed there while sending his officials to Jerusalem. The Hebrew root for Lachish (לָכִישׁ) suggests a fortified city, which aligns with its historical role as a stronghold. 3. Assyria Although not a specific city, Assyria is the empire from which King Sennacherib hails. It represents the dominant power threatening Judah during this period. The Assyrian Empire was known for its military prowess and expansive conquests. Events 1. Sennacherib Invades Judah In the fourteenth year of King Hezekiah's reign, Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, invades Judah and captures its fortified cities. This event sets the stage for the confrontation between Assyria and Jerusalem. The Hebrew root for "invade" (בּוֹא, bo) implies a forceful entry or coming into a place. 2. The Assyrian Army at Jerusalem Sennacherib sends his field commander, the Rabshakeh, with a large army to Jerusalem. They position themselves by the aqueduct of the Upper Pool, on the road to the Launderer’s Field. This strategic location underscores the threat to Jerusalem's water supply, a critical resource during a siege. 3. Hezekiah's Officials Meet the Rabshakeh Eliakim, Shebna, and Joah, officials of King Hezekiah, go out to meet the Rabshakeh. This meeting represents a diplomatic encounter, where the Assyrian envoy delivers a message intended to intimidate and demoralize the people of Jerusalem. 4. The Rabshakeh's Speech The Rabshakeh questions the confidence of Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem, mocking their reliance on Egypt and their faith in the LORD. He challenges their trust, saying, "On what are you basing this confidence of yours?" (Isaiah 36:4). The Hebrew word for "confidence" (בִּטָּחוֹן, bitachon) conveys a sense of security or trust. 5. The Rabshakeh's Offer The Rabshakeh offers terms of surrender, promising that if they submit to Assyria, they will be taken to a land of plenty. This offer is a psychological tactic to weaken the resolve of Jerusalem's inhabitants. 6. The Rabshakeh's Blasphemy The Rabshakeh blasphemes the LORD, claiming that Hezekiah's reforms have angered God and that the LORD Himself has commanded the Assyrian invasion. This blasphemy is a direct challenge to the faith of the people and their understanding of God's sovereignty. 7. Hezekiah's Officials Request Silence Hezekiah's officials ask the Rabshakeh to speak in Aramaic rather than Hebrew, so the people on the wall will not understand. The Rabshakeh refuses, intending to spread fear among the populace by speaking in their language. 8. The Rabshakeh's Final Warning The Rabshakeh warns the people not to trust Hezekiah, claiming that no god of any nation has been able to deliver their land from the king of Assyria. This warning is meant to undermine the people's faith in the LORD's ability to save them. 9. The People's Silence Despite the Rabshakeh's provocations, the people remain silent, obeying King Hezekiah's command not to answer him. This silence reflects their obedience and perhaps their hope in divine intervention. 10. Hezekiah's Officials Report Back Eliakim, Shebna, and Joah return to Hezekiah with their clothes torn, a sign of distress and mourning, and report the words of the Rabshakeh. This act of tearing garments is rooted in Hebrew tradition as an expression of grief and despair. Lessons from Isaiah 36 1. Trust in the Lord, Not in Human Strength In Isaiah 36, we see the Assyrian king's representative, the Rabshakeh, trying to intimidate the people of Jerusalem by boasting about Assyria's military might. He questions their reliance on Egypt and their own strength. This is a powerful reminder that our ultimate trust should be in the Lord, not in human alliances or abilities. As Isaiah 36:5 says, "You claim to have a strategy and strength for war, but these are empty words." Our true strength comes from God, who is our refuge and fortress. 2. The Power of Faith Over Fear The Rabshakeh attempts to instill fear in the hearts of the Israelites by highlighting their seemingly hopeless situation. However, faith in God can overcome any fear. Isaiah 36:15 encourages us, "Do not let Hezekiah persuade you to trust in the LORD." This is a call to stand firm in faith, knowing that God is greater than any challenge we face. 3. The Importance of Wise Leadership King Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat is a testament to wise leadership. Instead of panicking, he seeks the counsel of the prophet Isaiah and turns to God in prayer. This teaches us the value of seeking godly wisdom and guidance in times of crisis. Proverbs 11:14 reminds us, "Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety." 4. The Futility of Idolatry The Rabshakeh mocks the Israelites for relying on their God, comparing Him to the powerless idols of other nations. This highlights the futility of idolatry and the superiority of the one true God. Isaiah 36:18 warns, "Do not let Hezekiah mislead you when he says, ‘The LORD will deliver us.’" Yet, we know that God is not like the idols of wood and stone; He is the living God who hears and saves. 5. God's Sovereignty Over Nations The Assyrian envoy boasts of their conquests, claiming that no god has been able to withstand them. However, this narrative sets the stage for demonstrating God's sovereignty over all nations. Isaiah 36:20 asks, "Who among all the gods of these lands has delivered his land out of my hand, that the LORD should deliver Jerusalem out of my hand?" This rhetorical question is answered by God's ultimate deliverance, proving His supreme authority. 6. The Danger of Deception The Rabshakeh uses deception to try to sway the people of Jerusalem, promising them peace and prosperity if they surrender. This is a reminder of the danger of being led astray by false promises. Isaiah 36:16-17 says, "Do not listen to Hezekiah. For this is what the king of Assyria says: Make peace with me and come out to me." We must be discerning and hold fast to God's truth. 7. The Role of Prophetic Voices Isaiah's role as a prophet is crucial in this chapter. He provides guidance and reassurance to King Hezekiah and the people. This underscores the importance of listening to prophetic voices that align with God's Word. As 2 Peter 1:21 states, "For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit." 8. The Assurance of God's Deliverance Despite the overwhelming odds, God promises deliverance to His people. This assurance is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, reminding us that God is faithful to save those who trust in Him. Isaiah 36 sets the stage for the miraculous deliverance that follows, reinforcing the truth of Psalm 34:17, "The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; He delivers them from all their troubles." 9. The Call to Stand Firm in Faith The people of Jerusalem are called to stand firm in their faith, even when faced with threats and intimidation. This is a call for us today to remain steadfast in our beliefs, trusting in God's promises. Ephesians 6:13 encourages us, "Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm." 10. The Ultimate Victory Belongs to God Isaiah 36 is a prelude to God's ultimate victory over the Assyrians, demonstrating that no earthly power can thwart His plans. This chapter reminds us that, in the end, God will triumph over all opposition. As Romans 8:31 declares, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" This is the hope and assurance we have in Christ, our victorious Savior. Topics 1. The Assyrian Threat The chapter opens with the Assyrian king, Sennacherib, sending his army to lay siege to the fortified cities of Judah, eventually arriving at Jerusalem. This sets the stage for the confrontation between Assyria and Judah. The historical context is crucial, as it highlights the political and military pressures faced by Judah. 2. The Rabshakeh's Speech The Rabshakeh, a high-ranking Assyrian official, delivers a speech to the people of Jerusalem, attempting to undermine their confidence in King Hezekiah and their faith in God. He questions Hezekiah's reliance on Egypt and mocks the idea of trusting in the LORD for deliverance. The speech is a psychological tactic aimed at demoralizing the inhabitants of Jerusalem. 3. Challenge to Hezekiah's Faith The Rabshakeh challenges Hezekiah's faith by pointing out the futility of relying on God, given the Assyrian conquests of other nations and their gods. This is a direct affront to the covenant relationship between God and Israel, emphasizing the spiritual battle alongside the physical siege. 4. The Offer of Surrender The Rabshakeh offers terms of surrender, promising the people of Jerusalem a peaceful relocation to a land similar to their own if they submit to Assyrian rule. This offer is a strategic move to avoid a prolonged siege and to weaken the resolve of the city's defenders. 5. The People's Silence In response to the Rabshakeh's speech, the people remain silent, as instructed by King Hezekiah. This silence reflects obedience to their king and a refusal to engage with the enemy's provocations, demonstrating a measure of faith and discipline. 6. Hezekiah's Officials Report The chapter concludes with Hezekiah's officials, Eliakim, Shebna, and Joah, tearing their clothes in distress and reporting the Rabshakeh's words to King Hezekiah. This act of tearing clothes is a traditional expression of mourning and distress in Hebrew culture, indicating the gravity of the situation. Themes 1. Assyrian Threat and Intimidation In Isaiah 36, the Assyrian king Sennacherib sends his field commander to Jerusalem to intimidate King Hezekiah and the people of Judah. The commander questions their reliance on Egypt and their faith in God, attempting to sow doubt and fear. This theme highlights the external threats faced by God's people and the psychological warfare used by their enemies. The Hebrew root for "trust" (בָּטַח, batach) is significant here, as the Assyrian commander challenges the trust Judah places in God. 2. Challenge to Faith in God The Assyrian envoy mocks the faith of the Israelites, questioning whether their God can deliver them from the might of Assyria. This theme underscores the testing of faith and the challenge of remaining steadfast in the face of overwhelming odds. The Hebrew word for "deliver" (יָשַׁע, yasha) is central, as it relates to God's ability to save His people. 3. Reliance on Human Alliances The Assyrian commander criticizes Judah's reliance on Egypt, portraying it as a weak and unreliable ally. This theme emphasizes the futility of depending on human alliances instead of trusting in God's power and provision. The Hebrew term for "rely" (שָׁעַן, sha'an) is pertinent, as it contrasts human support with divine support. 4. Divine Sovereignty and Authority Despite the Assyrian threats, the narrative implicitly affirms God's sovereignty over the nations. The Assyrian's claims of divine mandate to attack Judah are false, highlighting the theme of God's ultimate authority over human affairs. The Hebrew word for "sovereign" (מֶלֶךְ, melech) is relevant, as it denotes God's kingship and control. 5. Call to Repentance and Obedience The Assyrian commander's speech serves as a backdrop for the need for Judah to repent and obey God fully. This theme is about the call to return to God and trust in His promises, rather than succumbing to fear and intimidation. The Hebrew root for "repent" (שׁוּב, shuv) is significant, as it involves turning back to God. Prayer Points Pray for Strength and Courage Ask God to strengthen your faith and give you courage in the face of challenges and threats. Pray for Discernment Seek God’s wisdom to discern truth from lies and to recognize the tactics of the enemy. Pray for God’s Protection Request God’s protection over your life, family, and community, trusting in His sovereign power. Pray for Leaders Lift up spiritual and governmental leaders, asking God to guide them with wisdom and integrity in times of crisis. Answering Tough Questions 1. Isaiah 36:1: How do we reconcile the biblical account of Sennacherib’s invasion in Hezekiah’s fourteenth year with Assyrian records that date this campaign differently? 2. Isaiah 36:2: Is there archaeological evidence confirming the Rabshakeh’s confrontation at the upper pool near the Launderers’ Field? 3. Isaiah 36:4–6: Does the text accurately represent the complexity of alliances with Egypt, which many historians dispute or find unclear? 4. Isaiah 36:7: Why is removing high places presented by the Rabshakeh as a sign of God’s disfavor if Hezekiah’s reforms were meant to honor God? 5. Isaiah 36:18–20: How do we reconcile the Rabshakeh’s claim that no god has saved any nation from Assyria with the biblical assertion that the Lord ultimately delivered Judah? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Sennacherib's strategy of psychological warfare reflect tactics used in today's world? 2. Discuss the role of faith and trust in God during times of adversity, as depicted in Isaiah 36. 3. In what ways does Rabshakeh’s speech aim to cause division and fear? How does this relate to modern forms of propaganda? 4. What is the significance of Hezekiah's men remaining silent despite Rabshakeh's taunts? 5. Why does Rabshakeh insist on speaking in Hebrew, despite Eliakim's plea to converse in Aramaic? 6. How might the promise of land and life affect the faith of the people of Judah? 7. How does this chapter illustrate the concept of "faith versus worldly alliances"? 8. In our current society, what could be some "Assyrian threats" that challenge your faith? 9. How do you maintain trust in God when facing overwhelming challenges, as Hezekiah did? 10. What lessons can modern leaders learn from Sennacherib's tactics and Hezekiah's response? 11. How does the tearing of clothes symbolize the emotional turmoil faced by the people of Judah? 12. Discuss the irony of Rabshakeh claiming that the Lord has commissioned him to destroy the land. 13. How does the context of this chapter shape its message about resilience and faith? 14. How does this chapter demonstrate the power of fear and intimidation? 15. Discuss the role of silence as a tool of resistance in Isaiah 36. 16. Compare Rabshakeh's speech to ways in which misinformation is spread in today's society. 17. How does Isaiah 36 influence your perspective on handling fear and intimidation? 18. How would you respond to someone challenging your faith as Rabshakeh did with the people of Judah? 19. How can you apply the lessons learned from Hezekiah's silence to conflicts in your own life? 20. How might you handle a situation where your faith or belief is being ridiculed or publicly doubted? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions