In the biblical narrative, making a covenant with Assyria is often depicted as an act of political expediency that reflects a lack of faith in God's provision and protection. The Assyrian Empire, known for its military prowess and expansionist policies, was a dominant force in the ancient Near East during the 8th and 7th centuries BC. The decision by Israelite and Judean kings to enter into alliances with Assyria is portrayed in the Scriptures as a significant spiritual and political misstep.

Historical Context

The Kingdoms of Israel and Judah faced constant threats from surrounding nations, including Aram (Syria), Moab, Ammon, and the Philistines. During the 8th century BC, Assyria emerged as a formidable power under kings such as Tiglath-Pileser III, Shalmaneser V, and Sennacherib. The Assyrian Empire's aggressive expansion and military campaigns posed a direct threat to the smaller kingdoms of Israel and Judah.

Biblical References

1. 2 Kings 16:7-9: King Ahaz of Judah sought Assyrian assistance against the combined forces of Aram and Israel. "So Ahaz sent messengers to Tiglath-Pileser king of Assyria, saying, 'I am your servant and your son. Come up and save me from the hand of the king of Aram and the king of Israel, who are rising up against me.'"

2. Hosea 5:13: The prophet Hosea criticizes Israel for turning to Assyria for help instead of relying on God. "When Ephraim saw his sickness and Judah his wound, then Ephraim went to Assyria and sent to the great king for help. But he is not able to cure you or heal your wound."

3. Isaiah 30:1-2: The prophet Isaiah warns against forming alliances with foreign powers, including Assyria, as a substitute for trusting in God. "Woe to the obstinate children, declares the LORD, who carry out plans that are not Mine, forming an alliance, but against My will, heaping sin upon sin; who proceed to go down to Egypt without consulting Me, to seek help from Pharaoh’s protection and to take refuge in the shadow of Egypt."

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, making a covenant with Assyria is seen as a failure to trust in God's sovereignty and promises. The prophets consistently admonished the Israelites for their reliance on foreign powers, emphasizing that true security and peace could only be found in obedience to God. The alliances with Assyria often led to negative consequences, including increased idolatry, political subjugation, and eventual exile.

Consequences of Alliances

The alliances with Assyria did not bring the desired security. Instead, they often resulted in greater instability and oppression. For instance, the Kingdom of Israel was eventually conquered by Assyria in 722 BC, leading to the exile of the ten northern tribes. Judah, although temporarily spared, also faced significant threats and incursions from Assyria, as seen in the siege of Jerusalem during King Hezekiah's reign (2 Kings 18-19).

Prophetic Critique

The prophets, including Isaiah, Hosea, and Micah, were vocal critics of these political alliances. They viewed such covenants as acts of unfaithfulness to God, who had called Israel to be a distinct and holy nation. The prophets warned that reliance on human power rather than divine guidance would lead to judgment and disaster.

In summary, making a covenant with Assyria is depicted in the Bible as a cautionary tale of misplaced trust and the consequences of forsaking divine guidance for political alliances. The narrative serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God and reliance on His provision.