Topical Encyclopedia
The historical and biblical narrative of the people of Syria, particularly in relation to their colonization in Samaria by the King of Assyria, is a significant event that reflects the geopolitical and spiritual dynamics of the ancient Near East. This entry explores the context and implications of this colonization as recorded in the Bible.
Historical ContextSyria, known in ancient times as Aram, was a prominent region located to the northeast of Israel. The Arameans, the inhabitants of Syria, frequently interacted with the Israelites, often as adversaries. The capital city of Syria was Damascus, a major center of power and culture in the ancient world.
Assyrian Conquest and ColonizationThe Assyrian Empire, under the leadership of kings such as Tiglath-Pileser III, Shalmaneser V, and Sargon II, expanded its territory aggressively during the 8th century BC. The northern kingdom of Israel, with its capital in Samaria, fell victim to Assyrian expansionist policies. The biblical account of this period is found in
2 Kings 17, which details the fall of Samaria and the subsequent deportation and colonization efforts by the Assyrians.
Biblical AccountThe Bible records that due to the persistent idolatry and disobedience of the Israelites, God allowed the Assyrians to conquer the northern kingdom. In
2 Kings 17:6 , it is written: "In the ninth year of Hoshea, the king of Assyria captured Samaria and deported the Israelites to Assyria. He settled them in Halah, in Gozan on the Habor River, and in the towns of the Medes."
Following the deportation of the Israelites, the Assyrian king repopulated Samaria with people from various regions, including Syria. This is further elaborated in
2 Kings 17:24 : "Then the king of Assyria brought people from Babylon, Cuthah, Avva, Hamath, and Sepharvaim and settled them in the towns of Samaria to replace the Israelites. They took over Samaria and lived in its towns."
Religious and Cultural ImplicationsThe colonization of Samaria by diverse peoples, including Syrians, led to a significant cultural and religious syncretism. The new inhabitants brought with them their own gods and religious practices, which mingled with the remnants of Israelite worship. This syncretism is highlighted in
2 Kings 17:29-33 , where it describes how each group made its own gods and placed them in the high places of Samaria.
The introduction of foreign deities and practices into Samaria was seen as a continuation of the spiritual decline that had plagued the northern kingdom. The biblical narrative emphasizes that this was a direct consequence of Israel's failure to remain faithful to the covenant with Yahweh.
Legacy and InfluenceThe Assyrian colonization of Samaria had long-lasting effects on the region's identity and religious landscape. The intermingling of peoples and beliefs contributed to the development of the Samaritan community, which would later play a significant role in the New Testament narrative. The Samaritans, who emerged from this mixed population, were often at odds with the Jews of Judea, as seen in the Gospels.
The events surrounding the Assyrian colonization of Samaria serve as a poignant reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commandments and the complex interplay of culture, politics, and religion in the biblical world.
Nave's Topical Index
2 Kings 17:24And the king of Assyria brought men from Babylon, and from Cuthah, and from Ava, and from Hamath, and from Sepharvaim, and placed them in the cities of Samaria instead of the children of Israel: and they possessed Samaria, and dwelled in the cities thereof.
Nave's Topical Index
Resources
Does war with Syria have anything to do with the end times? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of Syria/Aram in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho is the king of the North in Daniel 11? | GotQuestions.orgSyria: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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