Topical Encyclopedia Ararat is a region mentioned in the Bible, most notably associated with the mountains where Noah's Ark came to rest after the flood (Genesis 8:4). However, Ararat also plays a significant role in the historical narrative concerning the assassination of the Assyrian king Sennacherib.Biblical Context The account of Sennacherib's assassination is found in 2 Kings 19:37 and Isaiah 37:38. Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, had invaded Judah and laid siege to Jerusalem during the reign of King Hezekiah. Despite his military might, Sennacherib's campaign against Jerusalem was thwarted by divine intervention, as described in 2 Kings 19:35, where an angel of the Lord struck down 185,000 Assyrian soldiers. Following this defeat, Sennacherib returned to Nineveh, where he met his demise. The Bible records, "One day, while he was worshiping in the temple of his god Nisroch, his sons Adrammelech and Sharezer struck him down with the sword and escaped to the land of Ararat" (2 Kings 19:37). Historical and Geographical Significance Ararat, in this context, refers to a region located in the ancient kingdom of Urartu, which corresponds to parts of modern-day eastern Turkey, Armenia, and northwestern Iran. The land of Ararat was known for its mountainous terrain, providing a natural refuge for those seeking to escape pursuit. The choice of Ararat as a place of refuge for Sennacherib's assassins highlights its geographical significance as a remote and defensible location. The region's rugged landscape would have offered protection and concealment, making it an ideal destination for fugitives. Theological Implications The assassination of Sennacherib and the subsequent flight of his sons to Ararat underscore the theme of divine justice and retribution found throughout the Scriptures. Sennacherib's arrogance and blasphemy against the God of Israel (2 Kings 19:22-28) ultimately led to his downfall, fulfilling the prophetic word delivered by Isaiah (Isaiah 37:7). The narrative also illustrates the sovereignty of God over the affairs of nations and rulers. Despite Sennacherib's power and conquests, his life was cut short, and his kingdom was left in turmoil. The escape of his sons to Ararat serves as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly power and the ultimate authority of God in executing His will. Cultural and Historical Legacy The account of Sennacherib's assassination and the flight to Ararat has been preserved in various historical records outside the Bible, including Assyrian and Babylonian chronicles. These accounts corroborate the biblical narrative, providing additional historical context to the events described in Scripture. Ararat's mention in this context also contributes to its broader biblical significance, linking it to both the account of Noah and the unfolding history of God's people. The region's enduring presence in biblical history serves as a testament to its importance in the ancient Near East and its role in the divine narrative. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 37:38And it came to pass, as he was worshipping in the house of Nisroch his god, that Adrammelech and Sharezer his sons smote him with the sword; and they escaped into the land of Armenia: and Esarhaddon his son reigned in his stead. Nave's Topical Index Library The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria The Iranian Conquest Resources Would the discovery of Noah's Ark be important? | GotQuestions.orgWhere did Noah live? | GotQuestions.org Why did Noah release a raven? Why did he later release a dove (Genesis 8)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |