The Assyrian Army's campaign against Jerusalem is a significant event recorded in the Hebrew Scriptures, primarily in the books of 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles, and Isaiah. This event is a pivotal moment in the history of Judah, showcasing the power of God in delivering His people from seemingly insurmountable odds.

Historical Context

The Assyrian Empire, under the rule of King Sennacherib, was a dominant force in the ancient Near East during the late 8th century BC. Known for their military prowess and brutal tactics, the Assyrians had already conquered the northern kingdom of Israel and many other nations. In 701 BC, Sennacherib turned his attention to the southern kingdom of Judah, capturing several fortified cities and eventually setting his sights on Jerusalem.

Biblical Account

The biblical narrative of the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem is detailed in 2 Kings 18-19, 2 Chronicles 32, and Isaiah 36-37. King Hezekiah of Judah, a righteous king who had instituted religious reforms and sought to restore the worship of Yahweh, faced the threat of the Assyrian army with faith and determination.

In 2 Kings 18:17-19:37, the Assyrian king sent his field commander, the Rabshakeh, to Jerusalem with a message of intimidation and blasphemy against the God of Israel. The Rabshakeh mocked Hezekiah's trust in the Lord, claiming that no god of any nation had been able to withstand the might of Assyria. He urged the people of Jerusalem to surrender, promising them peace and prosperity if they submitted to Sennacherib.

Hezekiah's response was one of humility and reliance on God. He sought the counsel of the prophet Isaiah, who assured him that the Lord would defend the city. Isaiah 37:6-7 records the prophet's words: "Do not be afraid of the words you have heard, with which the servants of the king of Assyria have blasphemed Me. Behold, I will put a spirit in him so that he will hear a rumor and return to his own land, where I will cause him to fall by the sword."

Divine Intervention

In a dramatic turn of events, the Lord intervened to save Jerusalem. According to 2 Kings 19:35, "That 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 deliverance demonstrated God's sovereignty and power, affirming His protection over His covenant people.

Sennacherib, humiliated and defeated, withdrew to Nineveh, where he was later assassinated by his own sons, as prophesied by Isaiah (Isaiah 37:38).

Theological Significance

The Assyrian siege of Jerusalem serves as a powerful testament to God's faithfulness and His ability to protect and deliver His people against overwhelming odds. It underscores the importance of trusting in the Lord rather than relying on human strength or alliances. Hezekiah's reliance on prayer and prophetic guidance exemplifies the proper response to crisis, highlighting the centrality of faith and obedience in the life of God's people.

This event also foreshadows the ultimate deliverance that God would provide through Jesus Christ, who, like Hezekiah, faced insurmountable opposition yet triumphed through divine intervention. The narrative of the Assyrian army at Jerusalem remains a profound reminder of God's unchanging nature and His commitment to His promises.