Topical Bible: Homicide: Felonious of Sennacherib

◄ Homicide: Felonious of Sennacherib ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Introduction

The term "homicide" refers to the deliberate and unlawful killing of one person by another. In the context of biblical history, the felonious acts of certain individuals are recorded as cautionary tales and moral lessons. One such figure is Sennacherib, the Assyrian king whose reign is marked by acts of aggression and violence, including the murder of his own kin. This entry explores the biblical account of Sennacherib's felonious homicide, as recorded in the Scriptures.

Biblical Account

Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, is a prominent figure in the Old Testament, known for his military campaigns and his siege of Jerusalem during the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah. The Bible provides a detailed account of Sennacherib's actions and his eventual demise at the hands of his own sons.

In 2 Kings 19:36-37 , the narrative describes the end of Sennacherib's life: "So Sennacherib king of Assyria broke camp and withdrew. He returned to Nineveh and stayed there. 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. And his son Esarhaddon reigned in his place."

Similarly, Isaiah 37:37-38 recounts the same event: "So Sennacherib king of Assyria broke camp and withdrew. He returned to Nineveh and stayed there. 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. And his son Esarhaddon reigned in his place."

Historical and Theological Context

Sennacherib's assassination is a significant event in biblical history, illustrating the themes of divine justice and retribution. The Assyrian king's aggressive campaigns against Judah and his blasphemous defiance of the God of Israel set the stage for his downfall. The Bible portrays his murder as a direct consequence of his hubris and impiety.

The act of homicide committed by Sennacherib's sons is depicted as a fulfillment of divine prophecy. Earlier in the narrative, the prophet Isaiah had foretold the downfall of the Assyrian king as a result of his arrogance and defiance against the Lord (Isaiah 37:6-7). The murder of Sennacherib by his own offspring serves as a stark reminder of the biblical principle that those who exalt themselves against God will ultimately face judgment.

Moral and Ethical Implications

From a moral and ethical standpoint, the felonious homicide of Sennacherib underscores the destructive nature of sin and the inevitable consequences of living in defiance of God's commandments. The Bible consistently teaches that murder is a grave sin, violating the sanctity of human life created in the image of God (Genesis 9:6).

The account of Sennacherib's assassination also highlights the internal strife and moral decay that can arise within a family or nation when leaders forsake righteousness and justice. The murder by his sons reflects a breakdown of familial bonds and the tragic outcomes of unchecked ambition and treachery.

Conclusion

The biblical narrative of Sennacherib's felonious homicide serves as a powerful illustration of the themes of divine justice, the consequences of sin, and the moral decay that can result from a life lived in opposition to God's will. Through this account, the Scriptures provide a sobering reminder of the importance of humility, righteousness, and reverence for the Lord.

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2 Kings 19:37
And 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.
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Isaiah 37:38
And 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.
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