Topical Bible: Ambassadors: Sennacherib Through Rabshakeh to Hezekiah

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In the historical context of the Old Testament, ambassadors played a crucial role in diplomatic relations between kingdoms. One notable instance of such diplomatic engagement is found in the narrative of Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, and his interactions with Hezekiah, the king of Judah, through his envoy, Rabshakeh.

Historical Background

Sennacherib reigned as the king of Assyria from 705 to 681 BC, a period marked by Assyrian expansion and dominance in the Near East. His reign is documented in both biblical and extra-biblical sources, highlighting his military campaigns and administrative prowess. Hezekiah, on the other hand, was the king of Judah from approximately 715 to 686 BC, known for his religious reforms and efforts to fortify Jerusalem against external threats.

The Role of Rabshakeh

Rabshakeh served as a high-ranking official and spokesman for Sennacherib. His role as an ambassador is prominently featured in the biblical account of Sennacherib's campaign against Judah, as recorded in 2 Kings 18-19 and Isaiah 36-37. Rabshakeh's mission was to deliver a message from Sennacherib to Hezekiah, demanding the surrender of Jerusalem and attempting to undermine the morale of the Judean people.

Diplomatic Encounter

The encounter between Rabshakeh and Hezekiah's representatives is a vivid example of ancient Near Eastern diplomacy. Rabshakeh approached Jerusalem with a large Assyrian army and delivered his message in a public setting, speaking in Hebrew to ensure that the people of Jerusalem could understand his words. This tactic was intended to sow fear and doubt among the inhabitants of the city.

Rabshakeh's speech, as recorded in 2 Kings 18:19-25 , is a mixture of intimidation and persuasion. He questions Hezekiah's reliance on Egypt for military support and mocks the king's trust in the LORD, suggesting that the God of Israel is powerless against the might of Assyria. Rabshakeh further attempts to convince the people of Jerusalem to surrender by promising them favorable treatment under Assyrian rule.

Hezekiah's Response

Hezekiah's response to Rabshakeh's message is characterized by faith and reliance on divine intervention. Instead of capitulating to Assyrian demands, Hezekiah seeks the counsel of the prophet Isaiah and turns to prayer. In 2 Kings 19:1-4 , Hezekiah sends his officials to Isaiah, seeking a word from the LORD regarding the blasphemous threats of the Assyrians.

Isaiah's prophecy, as conveyed to Hezekiah, assures the king of God's protection and the eventual downfall of Sennacherib. The LORD promises to defend Jerusalem for His own sake and for the sake of His servant David (2 Kings 19:34).

Divine Intervention and Outcome

The biblical narrative culminates in a miraculous deliverance for Jerusalem. According to 2 Kings 19:35-36 , the angel of the LORD strikes down 185,000 Assyrian soldiers in their camp, forcing Sennacherib to withdraw and return to Nineveh. This divine intervention underscores the sovereignty of God over the affairs of nations and His ability to protect His people against seemingly insurmountable odds.

Significance

The account of Sennacherib's ambassadors, particularly Rabshakeh, and their encounter with Hezekiah serves as a powerful testament to the themes of faith, divine sovereignty, and the futility of human arrogance against the will of God. It highlights the role of ambassadors not only as political envoys but also as instruments in the unfolding of God's redemptive history.

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2 Kings 19:9
And when he heard say of Tirhakah king of Ethiopia, Behold, he is come out to fight against you: he sent messengers again to Hezekiah, saying,
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How Sennacherib Made an Expedition against Hezekiah; What
... the people, as well as the ambassadors, heard what ... and was resolved to march through
the desert ... directly upon the Assyrians, this king Sennacherib was disturbed ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 1 how sennacherib made.htm

The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal
... encouraged, he made straight for the scene of danger without passing through Nineveh,
so ... The vast army of Sargon and Sennacherib had been split up, and the two ...
/.../chapter iithe power of assyria 2.htm