The Sepharvites were an ancient people mentioned in the Bible, specifically in the context of the Assyrian resettlement policies during the reign of King Sargon II. They are associated with the city of Sepharvaim, which is referenced in the Old Testament as part of the Assyrian Empire's territorial conquests and subsequent population relocations.

Biblical References

The primary biblical mention of the Sepharvites occurs in 2 Kings 17:24, which states: "Then the king of Assyria brought people from Babylon, Cuthah, Avva, Hamath, and Sepharvaim and settled them in the towns of Samaria to replace the Israelites. They took over Samaria and lived in its towns." . This passage highlights the Assyrian strategy of deporting conquered peoples and resettling them in different regions to prevent rebellion and assimilate them into the empire.

Further mention of Sepharvaim is found in 2 Kings 18:34 and 19:13, as well as Isaiah 37:13, where the city is listed among those whose gods were unable to save them from Assyrian conquest: "Where are the gods of Hamath and Arpad? Where are the gods of Sepharvaim, Hena, and Ivvah? Have they rescued Samaria from my hand?" (2 Kings 18:34). These rhetorical questions posed by the Assyrian officials emphasize the futility of resisting Assyrian power and the ineffectiveness of the local deities.

Historical and Cultural Context

Sepharvaim is believed to have been a city located in Mesopotamia, although its exact location remains uncertain. Some scholars suggest it may have been situated near the Euphrates River, possibly identified with the ancient city of Sippar. The name "Sepharvaim" itself is thought to mean "the two Sippars," referring to the twin cities of Sippar-Yahrurum and Sippar-Amnanum.

The Sepharvites, as part of the Assyrian resettlement, were likely polytheistic, worshiping a pantheon of gods typical of Mesopotamian culture. This is supported by the biblical account in 2 Kings 17:31, which notes their religious practices: "The Sepharvites burned their children in the fire as sacrifices to Adrammelech and Anammelech, the gods of Sepharvaim." . Such practices were abhorred by the Israelites and are indicative of the cultural and religious differences between the two groups.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, the mention of the Sepharvites and their gods serves as a contrast to the monotheistic worship of Yahweh by the Israelites. The biblical narrative underscores the sovereignty of the God of Israel over all nations and their deities, as demonstrated by the eventual downfall of these foreign gods and their inability to protect their worshipers from Assyrian domination.

The resettlement of the Sepharvites in Samaria also plays a role in the broader narrative of the Northern Kingdom's spiritual decline. The introduction of foreign peoples and their religious practices contributed to the syncretism and idolatry that characterized the region, ultimately leading to divine judgment and the fall of Samaria.

Conclusion

The Sepharvites, as depicted in the Bible, are emblematic of the Assyrian Empire's expansive reach and the cultural exchanges that occurred through its policies of conquest and resettlement. Their presence in the biblical narrative serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the Israelites in maintaining their distinct identity and faith amidst a diverse and often hostile world.2 Kings 17:31
And the Avites made Nibhaz and Tartak, and the Sepharvites burnt their children in fire to Adrammelech and Anammelech, the gods of Sepharvaim.
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Mongrel Religion
... of Jehovah; but, still, they were known to others as his people, and their land
was Jehovah's land. If the Sepharvites had stopped at Sepharvaim they would ...
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