Topical Bible: Armies: March in Ranks: Angel of the Lord Smites the Assyrians

◄ Armies: March in Ranks: Angel of the Lord Smites the Assyrians ►

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The concept of armies marching in ranks is a recurring theme in the Bible, symbolizing order, discipline, and divine intervention. One of the most striking instances of divine intervention in military affairs is the account of the Angel of the Lord smiting the Assyrian army, as recorded in the Old Testament.

Biblical Account

The event is primarily documented in 2 Kings 19:35 and Isaiah 37:36. The Assyrian army, under King Sennacherib, had laid siege to Jerusalem, threatening the kingdom of Judah during the reign of King Hezekiah. In response to this dire threat, Hezekiah sought the Lord's guidance and intervention through prayer and the counsel of the prophet Isaiah.

2 Kings 19:35 states: "And that very night the angel of the LORD went out and struck down 185,000 men in the camp of the Assyrians. When the people got up the next morning, there were all the dead bodies!"

This miraculous event underscores the power and sovereignty of God over the nations and their armies. The Angel of the Lord, a divine messenger, acts as an instrument of God's judgment, delivering His people from the hands of their enemies without the need for human military engagement.

Theological Significance

The smiting of the Assyrian army by the Angel of the Lord serves as a powerful testament to God's protection and deliverance of His chosen people. It highlights the futility of human arrogance and the ultimate authority of God over earthly powers. The Assyrians, despite their military might and strategic prowess, were rendered powerless by a single act of divine intervention.

This event also reinforces the biblical theme that God fights for His people. In Exodus 14:14 , it is written, "The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still." The destruction of the Assyrian army is a vivid illustration of this promise, demonstrating that God can achieve victory without human effort when His people place their trust in Him.

Historical Context

The Assyrian Empire was one of the most formidable military powers of the ancient Near East, known for its advanced warfare techniques and brutal conquests. Sennacherib's campaign against Judah was part of a larger strategy to expand Assyrian dominance. The miraculous defeat of his army at Jerusalem marked a significant turning point, preserving the Davidic line and the city of Jerusalem from destruction.

Symbolism and Imagery

The imagery of the Angel of the Lord smiting the Assyrians is rich with symbolism. The angel represents divine authority and the execution of God's will. The sudden and complete destruction of the Assyrian forces serves as a reminder of the transient nature of human power and the enduring strength of divine providence.

In the broader biblical narrative, this event foreshadows the ultimate victory of God over evil and the establishment of His kingdom. It serves as an assurance to believers that God is actively involved in the affairs of the world, working to fulfill His purposes and protect His people.

Conclusion

The account of the Angel of the Lord smiting the Assyrians is a profound example of God's intervention in history, demonstrating His power to save and His commitment to His covenant people. It remains a source of encouragement and faith for believers, affirming that God is sovereign over all nations and that His plans will prevail.

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2 Kings 19:35
And it came to pass that night, that the angel of the LORD went out, and smote in the camp of the Assyrians an hundred fourscore and five thousand: and when they arose early in the morning, behold, they were all dead corpses.
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