The resettlement of Samaria is a significant event in biblical history, occurring after the fall of the Northern Kingdom of Israel to the Assyrian Empire in 722 B.C. This event is documented in the Old Testament, primarily in the books of 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles, and it marks a pivotal moment in the history of the Israelites and the region of Samaria.

Historical Context

The Northern Kingdom of Israel, with its capital in Samaria, had persistently engaged in idolatry and disobedience to God, despite the warnings of prophets. As a result, God allowed the Assyrian Empire, under King Shalmaneser V and later Sargon II, to conquer Israel. The Assyrians employed a strategy of deportation and resettlement to prevent rebellion and assimilate conquered peoples into their empire.

Biblical Account

The Bible records the resettlement of Samaria in 2 Kings 17:24-41. After the Assyrians captured Samaria, they deported many Israelites to Assyria and replaced them with people from various regions, including Babylon, Cuthah, Avva, Hamath, and Sepharvaim. This resettlement policy aimed to dilute the national identity of the conquered peoples and integrate them into the Assyrian Empire.

2 Kings 17:24 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."

Religious Syncretism

The new inhabitants of Samaria brought with them their own gods and religious practices, leading to a syncretistic form of worship. Initially, they did not fear the LORD, which resulted in God sending lions among them as a form of judgment (2 Kings 17:25). In response, the Assyrian king sent back one of the exiled Israelite priests to teach the new settlers how to worship the LORD.

Despite this, the people continued to worship both the LORD and their own gods, creating a mixed religious practice. 2 Kings 17:33 notes: "They worshiped the LORD, but they also served their own gods according to the customs of the nations from which they had been carried away."

Impact on Jewish-Samaritan Relations

The resettlement of Samaria and the resulting syncretism had long-lasting effects on Jewish-Samaritan relations. The mixed population and religious practices of Samaria were viewed with suspicion and disdain by the Jews of the Southern Kingdom of Judah. This animosity persisted into the New Testament era, as evidenced by the interactions between Jews and Samaritans in the Gospels.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the resettlement of Samaria serves as a testament to God's sovereignty and justice. The fall of the Northern Kingdom and the subsequent resettlement were consequences of Israel's persistent idolatry and covenant unfaithfulness. Yet, even in judgment, God provided an opportunity for the new inhabitants to learn about Him, highlighting His desire for all nations to know and worship Him.

The resettlement of Samaria is a complex event that underscores the themes of judgment, mercy, and the challenges of maintaining faithfulness to God amidst cultural and religious pluralism.