Topical Encyclopedia Introduction:Rab-Shakeh is a title rather than a personal name, referring to a high-ranking Assyrian military officer or official. The term "Rab-Shakeh" is derived from the Akkadian language, meaning "chief cupbearer" or "field commander." This individual is prominently featured in the biblical narrative during the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah, specifically in the context of the Assyrian siege of Jerusalem under King Sennacherib. Biblical Account: The account of Rab-Shakeh is primarily found in 2 Kings 18-19, 2 Chronicles 32, and Isaiah 36-37. These passages describe the events surrounding the Assyrian campaign against Judah during the late 8th century BC. Historical Context: During the reign of Hezekiah, the Kingdom of Judah faced the formidable threat of the Assyrian Empire, which was expanding its territory under the leadership of King Sennacherib. In 701 BC, Sennacherib launched a military campaign against Judah, capturing several fortified cities. Jerusalem, the capital, became a primary target. Role of Rab-Shakeh: Rab-Shakeh was sent by Sennacherib as part of a delegation to deliver a message to King Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem. His role was to intimidate and persuade the inhabitants of Jerusalem to surrender without a fight. Rab-Shakeh's speech, delivered in Hebrew to ensure that all the people could understand, was a psychological tactic aimed at undermining the morale and faith of the Judeans. Rab-Shakeh's Speech: Rab-Shakeh's address is recorded in 2 Kings 18:19-35 and Isaiah 36:4-20. He questioned Hezekiah's reliance on Egypt for military support and mocked the king's trust in the LORD, suggesting that the God of Israel was no different from the gods of other nations that Assyria had already conquered. Rab-Shakeh claimed that Sennacherib had the backing of the LORD to destroy Jerusalem, further attempting to sow doubt and fear among the people. Hezekiah's Response: In response to Rab-Shakeh's threats, King Hezekiah sought the counsel of the prophet Isaiah. Hezekiah's faith and reliance on God are highlighted in his prayer for deliverance, as recorded in 2 Kings 19:15-19. Isaiah assured Hezekiah that God would defend the city for His own sake and for the sake of His servant David. Divine Intervention: The biblical narrative concludes with a miraculous deliverance of Jerusalem. According to 2 Kings 19:35 and Isaiah 37:36, the angel of the LORD struck down 185,000 Assyrian soldiers, forcing Sennacherib to withdraw and return to Nineveh. This event is seen as a testament to God's power and faithfulness in protecting His people. Theological Significance: Rab-Shakeh's encounter with Jerusalem serves as a powerful illustration of the conflict between human arrogance and divine sovereignty. The narrative emphasizes the futility of opposing God's will and the importance of faith and reliance on Him in times of crisis. The account of Rab-Shakeh and the Assyrian siege underscores the theme of God's protection and deliverance of His covenant people, reinforcing the belief in His ultimate authority over the nations. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 18:17-36And the king of Assyria sent Tartan and Rabsaris and Rabshakeh from Lachish to king Hezekiah with a great host against Jerusalem. And they went up and came to Jerusalem. And when they were come up, they came and stood by the conduit of the upper pool, which is in the highway of the fuller's field. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 19:4,8 Isaiah 36:1 Isaiah 37:1 Library How Sennacherib Made an Expedition against Hezekiah; What The Triumph of Faith Nineveh. Deliverance from Assyria Sennacherib (705-681 BC ) Isaiah Babylonia and Assyria The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusSubtopics Rab-Shakeh : Sent by Sennacherib Against Jerusalem Related Terms |
    |