Topical Encyclopedia Sargon II, a prominent king of Assyria, reigned from 722 to 705 BC. His rule is significant in the context of biblical history, particularly in relation to the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Sargon is mentioned in the Bible in Isaiah 20:1, which states, "In the year that the chief commander, sent by Sargon king of Assyria, came to Ashdod and attacked and captured it."Historical Context Sargon II ascended to the throne following the death of Shalmaneser V. His reign marked a period of military expansion and consolidation of the Assyrian Empire. Sargon is credited with the final conquest of Samaria, the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, although the initial siege began under Shalmaneser V. The fall of Samaria in 722 BC led to the deportation of many Israelites, an event that fulfilled the prophetic warnings of the prophets and marked the end of the Northern Kingdom. Military Campaigns and Achievements Sargon's military campaigns extended beyond Israel. He is known for his conquest of Ashdod, as mentioned in Isaiah 20:1, and his campaigns in Babylon, Urartu, and against the Hittites. Sargon established the city of Dur-Sharrukin (modern-day Khorsabad) as his capital, which became a symbol of Assyrian power and architectural achievement. Biblical Significance The mention of Sargon in the Bible, though brief, underscores the historical reality of Assyrian dominance during this period. The Assyrian Empire, under Sargon's leadership, was an instrument of divine judgment against Israel, as prophesied by Isaiah and other prophets. The Assyrian captivity of the Israelites is a pivotal event in biblical history, illustrating the consequences of Israel's disobedience to God. Archaeological Evidence Archaeological discoveries have corroborated the biblical account of Sargon's reign. The ruins of Dur-Sharrukin, excavated in the 19th century, revealed inscriptions and reliefs that provide insight into Sargon's military campaigns and administrative policies. These findings align with the biblical narrative and enhance our understanding of the historical context of the Assyrian Empire. Legacy Sargon's legacy is one of both military prowess and administrative innovation. His reign solidified Assyrian control over a vast territory and set the stage for the empire's continued dominance under his successors. In the biblical narrative, Sargon serves as a reminder of the sovereignty of God over the nations and the fulfillment of His prophetic word through historical events. Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 20:1In the year that Tartan came to Ashdod, (when Sargon the king of Assyria sent him,) and fought against Ashdod, and took it; Nave's Topical Index Library Sargon of Assyria (722-705 BC ) The History Books Two Famous Versions of the Scriptures Nineveh. Babylonia and Assyria The Old Testament and Archeology History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 8 Isaiah The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal Sennacherib (705-681 BC ) Resources Are there errors in the Qur'an (Koran)? | GotQuestions.orgDid the Bible copy some of its stories from other religious myths and legends? | GotQuestions.org Who were the Cushites? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |