Isaiah 36:17

until 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.

Study Bible

until I come
This phrase signifies a promise or a threat of impending action. In the historical context, this is part of the Assyrian king's message to the people of Judah, suggesting a forced relocation. The Hebrew root for "come" (בּוֹא, bo) often implies arrival with purpose, whether for blessing or judgment. Here, it reflects the Assyrian king's intention to control and relocate the people, a common practice in ancient conquests to prevent rebellion.

and take you away
The phrase indicates a forced removal, a common tactic used by empires like Assyria to weaken conquered peoples by displacing them. The Hebrew word for "take away" (לָקַח, laqach) can mean to seize or capture, emphasizing the lack of choice for the people of Judah. This reflects the historical reality of exile, a theme that resonates throughout the Bible as both a physical and spiritual consequence of turning away from God.

to a land like your own
This phrase is a deceptive promise of equivalence. The Assyrian king attempts to persuade the people by suggesting that the new land will be as good as their own. Historically, this was a tactic to minimize resistance by offering a semblance of normalcy. However, the underlying message is one of loss and displacement, as no land could truly replace the Promised Land given by God to the Israelites.

a land of grain and new wine
This description evokes images of abundance and prosperity. Grain and wine are staples of sustenance and joy in biblical times, often symbolizing God's provision and blessing. The Hebrew words for "grain" (דָּגָן, dagan) and "new wine" (תִּירוֹשׁ, tirosh) are frequently used in Scripture to denote fertility and divine favor. The Assyrian king's promise is thus a counterfeit of God's true blessings, highlighting the spiritual danger of seeking fulfillment outside of God's covenant.

a land of bread and vineyards
Bread and vineyards further emphasize sustenance and abundance. Bread (לֶחֶם, lechem) is a basic necessity, while vineyards (כֶּרֶם, kerem) represent wealth and celebration. In the biblical narrative, these elements are often associated with God's covenant blessings. The Assyrian king's offer is a reminder of the temptation to seek security and prosperity apart from God's provision, a recurring challenge for God's people throughout history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Hezekiah
The king of Judah during the time of the Assyrian threat. He is known for his faithfulness to God and his efforts to reform the religious practices of Judah.

2. Rabshakeh
The Assyrian field commander who delivered a message from King Sennacherib of Assyria to the people of Jerusalem, attempting to persuade them to surrender.

3. Assyria
A powerful empire during this period, known for its military conquests and attempts to expand its territory, including the siege of Jerusalem.

4. Jerusalem
The capital city of Judah, under threat from the Assyrian army during the events of Isaiah 36.

5. Sennacherib
The king of Assyria, who sought to conquer Jerusalem and expand his empire.

Teaching Points

Discernment in the Face of Deception
Rabshakeh's offer of a "land like your own" is a deceptive promise meant to lure the people away from trusting God. Believers must discern truth from deception, especially when faced with enticing offers that lead away from God's will.

Trust in God's Promises
The Assyrian promise of a land of abundance contrasts with God's true promises. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's provision and faithfulness, even when circumstances seem dire.

The Power of Faithful Leadership
King Hezekiah's leadership and faith in God serve as a model for believers. His reliance on God during a crisis demonstrates the importance of seeking divine guidance and strength.

The Importance of Community Support
The people of Jerusalem were encouraged to stand firm together against the Assyrian threat. In times of trial, the support and unity of a faith community can provide strength and encouragement.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Assyrian offer in Isaiah 36:17 compare to God's promises to His people, and what can we learn about discerning truth from deception?

2. In what ways does King Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat inspire us to trust in God during our own challenges?

3. How can we apply the lessons of community support and unity from this passage to our own faith communities today?

4. What are some modern-day "lands of grain and new wine" that might tempt us away from God's path, and how can we resist these temptations?

5. How does the account of Isaiah 36-37 encourage us to rely on prayer and God's intervention in seemingly impossible situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 18-19
These chapters provide a parallel account of the events in Isaiah 36, offering additional details about the Assyrian siege and Hezekiah's response.

Isaiah 37
This chapter continues the account, showing God's deliverance of Jerusalem from the Assyrian threat, emphasizing divine intervention and faith.

Deuteronomy 8:7-9
This passage describes the Promised Land as a place of abundance, similar to the description given by Rabshakeh, highlighting the contrast between God's promises and Assyrian deception.