Isaiah 36:11

Then 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 Hebrew in the hearing of the people on the wall."

Study Bible

Then Eliakim, Shebna, and Joah said to the Rabshakeh
Eliakim, Shebna, and Joah were officials in King Hezekiah's court. Eliakim was the palace administrator, Shebna was the secretary, and Joah was the recorder. Their roles indicate they were trusted advisors and held significant authority. The Rabshakeh was a high-ranking Assyrian military officer, likely a title rather than a personal name, sent by King Sennacherib of Assyria. This encounter occurs during the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem, a critical moment in Judah's history, highlighting the tension between the Assyrian empire and the kingdom of Judah.

“Please speak to your servants in Aramaic, since we understand it.
Aramaic was the diplomatic and trade language of the Near East at the time, understood by educated officials but not by the common people. The request to speak in Aramaic was an attempt to prevent panic among the people of Jerusalem who were listening. This reflects the political and social dynamics of the time, where language played a crucial role in communication and control. The use of Aramaic also underscores the cultural and linguistic diversity of the region.

Do not speak to us in Hebrew in the hearing of the people on the wall.”
Hebrew was the language of the people of Judah, and speaking in Hebrew would allow the common people to understand the conversation, potentially causing fear and unrest. The officials' request indicates their concern for maintaining morale and control over the populace during a time of crisis. This moment foreshadows the eventual spread of fear and the challenge of maintaining faith in God's protection, a recurring theme in the prophetic literature. The situation also highlights the importance of leadership and communication in times of national threat.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Eliakim
He was the son of Hilkiah and served as the palace administrator under King Hezekiah. Eliakim was a key figure in the negotiations with the Assyrian envoy.

2. Shebna
Initially the royal secretary, Shebna was later demoted to a scribe. He was involved in the discussions with the Assyrian representatives.

3. Joah
The son of Asaph, Joah served as the recorder. He was part of the delegation sent by King Hezekiah to meet with the Assyrian officials.

4. Rabshakeh
A high-ranking Assyrian military officer and spokesman for King Sennacherib. He was sent to Jerusalem to demand its surrender.

5. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, under siege by the Assyrian army during the reign of King Hezekiah.

Teaching Points

The Power of Language
The request to speak in Aramaic highlights the strategic use of language. Language can be a tool for unity or division. In our communication, we should be mindful of how our words affect others.

Leadership and Wisdom
Eliakim, Shebna, and Joah demonstrate wisdom in their request. Leaders today should seek wisdom in their decisions, especially in times of crisis.

Faith in Adversity
The situation in Jerusalem was dire, yet the leaders sought to protect the morale of the people. In our lives, we should trust God and seek His guidance when facing challenges.

Understanding and Clarity
Just as the leaders wanted clarity in communication, we should strive for understanding in our study of Scripture, seeking clarity through prayer and study.

Bible Study Questions

1. Why did Eliakim, Shebna, and Joah request that the Rabshakeh speak in Aramaic, and what does this reveal about their leadership qualities?

2. How does the situation in Isaiah 36:11 reflect the importance of clear communication in our personal and spiritual lives?

3. In what ways can we apply the wisdom of Eliakim, Shebna, and Joah in our own leadership roles, whether in the church, workplace, or home?

4. How does the response of the leaders in Isaiah 36:11 compare to other biblical instances where language and communication played a crucial role (e.g., Nehemiah 8:8)?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a challenging situation. How can the faith and wisdom demonstrated by the leaders in Isaiah 36:11 inspire you to handle future challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 18:26-27
This passage parallels Isaiah 36:11, providing additional context to the Assyrian siege and the request to speak in Aramaic.

Isaiah 37:6-7
God's response to the Assyrian threat through the prophet Isaiah, offering reassurance to King Hezekiah.

Nehemiah 8:8
Highlights the importance of understanding Scripture, as the Levites helped the people understand the Law by translating and explaining it.