The miraculous destruction of Sennacherib's army is a significant event recorded in the Bible, illustrating God's divine intervention on behalf of His people. This event is documented in the books of 2 Kings, 2 Chronicles, and Isaiah, providing a powerful testament to God's sovereignty and protection over Israel.

Historical Context

The Assyrian king Sennacherib, known for his military prowess and expansionist campaigns, laid siege to Jerusalem during the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah. Sennacherib's campaign is historically dated to around 701 BC. The Assyrian empire, at the height of its power, had already conquered many fortified cities in Judah, and Jerusalem was next in line.

Biblical Account

The account of the destruction of Sennacherib's army is primarily found in 2 Kings 18-19, 2 Chronicles 32, and Isaiah 36-37. Sennacherib sent his field commander, the Rabshakeh, to Jerusalem to deliver a message of intimidation, mocking Hezekiah's trust in the LORD and urging the people to surrender. Hezekiah, in response, sought the counsel of the prophet Isaiah and turned to God in prayer.

In 2 Kings 19:35 , the miraculous event is described: "That night the angel of the LORD went out and struck down 185,000 men in the camp of the Assyrians. When the people got up the next morning, there were all the dead bodies!" This divine intervention led to the withdrawal of Sennacherib's forces and the preservation of Jerusalem.

Theological Significance

The destruction of Sennacherib's army serves as a profound demonstration of God's power and faithfulness. It underscores the biblical theme that God is the ultimate protector of His people, capable of delivering them from seemingly insurmountable threats. The event also highlights the importance of faith and reliance on God, as exemplified by Hezekiah's prayerful response to the crisis.

Prophetic Fulfillment

The event fulfilled the prophetic words spoken by Isaiah, who assured Hezekiah that Sennacherib would not enter Jerusalem. Isaiah 37:33-34 states, "Therefore this is what the LORD says about the king of Assyria: 'He will not enter this city or shoot an arrow here. He will not come before it with a shield or build up a siege ramp against it. By the way that he came, he will return; he will not enter this city,' declares the LORD."

Archaeological Corroboration

The historical existence of Sennacherib and his campaign against Judah is corroborated by archaeological findings, including the Taylor Prism, which records Sennacherib's own account of his military exploits. While the prism does not mention the destruction of his army, it does acknowledge his failure to capture Jerusalem, aligning with the biblical narrative.

Conclusion

The miraculous destruction of Sennacherib's army remains a powerful example of God's intervention in history, affirming His ability to protect and deliver His people against overwhelming odds. This event continues to inspire faith and trust in God's providence and power.2 Kings 19:35
And it came to pass that night, that the angel of the LORD went out, and smote in the camp of the Assyrians an hundred fourscore and five thousand: and when they arose early in the morning, behold, they were all dead corpses.
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Isaiah 37:36
Then the angel of the LORD went forth, and smote in the camp of the Assyrians a hundred and fourscore and five thousand: and when they arose early in the morning, behold, they were all dead corpses.
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The Greater Prophets.
... the time of the Messiah's advent, the destruction of the ... 21. That they who deny the
reality of miracles and prophecy ... the name of Daniel in the catalogue of his ...
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