Isaiah 36:19

Where are the gods of Hamath and Arpad? Where are the gods of Sepharvaim? Have they delivered Samaria from my hand?

Study Bible

Where are the gods of Hamath and Arpad?
The phrase "Where are the gods of Hamath and Arpad?" challenges the power and presence of the deities worshiped in these ancient cities. Hamath and Arpad were significant cities in Syria, often mentioned in the context of Assyrian conquests. The Hebrew word for "gods" here is "elohim," which can refer to divine beings or idols. Historically, these cities fell to the Assyrians, demonstrating the impotence of their gods against the might of the Assyrian empire. This rhetorical question underscores the futility of relying on false gods, contrasting them with the omnipotent God of Israel. It serves as a reminder of the sovereignty of the God of Israel, who is not limited by geography or political power.

Where are the gods of Sepharvaim?
Sepharvaim was another city-state that succumbed to Assyrian domination. The mention of its gods further emphasizes the theme of divine impotence in the face of Assyrian aggression. The historical context reveals that the Assyrians often relocated conquered peoples, including those from Sepharvaim, to prevent rebellion. This relocation included the introduction of their gods into new territories, yet these gods could not protect their own people. The rhetorical question highlights the contrast between the false security offered by these idols and the true security found in the God of Israel. It serves as a call to trust in the one true God, who is not bound by human limitations.

Have they delivered Samaria from my hand?
Samaria, the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, had already fallen to the Assyrians in 722 BC. The phrase "Have they delivered Samaria from my hand?" is a taunt by the Assyrian king, questioning the ability of any god to save a nation from Assyrian conquest. The historical fall of Samaria was a result of Israel's disobedience and idolatry, as recorded in 2 Kings 17. This rhetorical question serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God. It challenges the audience to consider the futility of relying on anything other than the God of Israel for deliverance. The verse as a whole calls believers to recognize the supremacy of God over all earthly powers and to place their trust solely in Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hamath
An ancient city located in modern-day Syria, known for its strategic importance and mentioned frequently in the Old Testament as a significant city-state.

2. Arpad
Another city in Syria, often associated with Hamath, and known for its resistance against Assyrian conquest.

3. Sepharvaim
A city whose exact location is uncertain, but it is believed to be in Mesopotamia. It is mentioned in the context of Assyrian conquests.

4. Samaria
The capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, which fell to the Assyrians in 722 BC. Its mention here highlights the Assyrian threat and their previous conquests.

5. Assyrian Siege of Jerusalem
The broader context of Isaiah 36 is the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem during the reign of King Hezekiah, where the Assyrian king Sennacherib challenges the power of the God of Israel.

Teaching Points

The Futility of Idolatry
The rhetorical questions in Isaiah 36:19 highlight the impotence of the gods of the nations. Unlike the living God of Israel, these idols could not save their people. This serves as a reminder to place our trust in God alone, who is sovereign and powerful.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
The Assyrian challenge underscores God's control over the affairs of nations. Despite the apparent power of Assyria, God demonstrates His ultimate authority, encouraging believers to trust in His plans and purposes.

Faith in Times of Crisis
King Hezekiah's response to the Assyrian threat, as seen in the broader account, is a model of faith and reliance on God. In our own crises, we are called to seek God earnestly and trust in His deliverance.

The Power of Prayer
Hezekiah's prayer in response to the Assyrian threat is a powerful example of turning to God in prayer. It encourages believers to bring their concerns to God, trusting in His ability to intervene.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the mention of the gods of Hamath, Arpad, and Sepharvaim in Isaiah 36:19 serve to contrast the God of Israel with the idols of the nations?

2. In what ways does the account of the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem in Isaiah 36-37 encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty over our own circumstances?

3. How can the account of Hezekiah's faith and prayer during the Assyrian threat inspire us to respond to challenges in our lives today?

4. What are some modern-day "idols" that people might trust in, and how can we ensure that our trust remains in God alone?

5. How does the broader account of Isaiah 36-37 connect with other biblical themes of God's deliverance and faithfulness, and how can these themes be applied to our personal walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 18-19
These chapters provide a parallel account of the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem, offering additional details about the events and the faith of King Hezekiah.

Isaiah 37
The continuation of the account where God delivers Jerusalem, demonstrating His power over the false gods of the nations.

Psalm 115
This Psalm contrasts the living God with the idols of the nations, emphasizing the futility of trusting in false gods.