Topical Encyclopedia Biblical References:Tartan is mentioned in the Bible in the context of Assyrian military campaigns against Israel and Judah. The primary references to Tartan are found in 2 Kings 18:17 and Isaiah 20:1. 2 Kings 18:17 : "Then the king of Assyria sent the Tartan, the Rabsaris, and the Rabshakeh from Lachish with a great army to King Hezekiah at Jerusalem. They went up and arrived at Jerusalem, and they stood by the aqueduct of the upper pool, which is on the road to the Washerman's Field." Isaiah 20:1 : "In the year that the Tartan came to Ashdod, when Sargon the king of Assyria sent him, and he fought against Ashdod and captured it." Historical Context: The term "Tartan" is not a personal name but rather a title used for a high-ranking Assyrian military officer, equivalent to a commander or general. The Assyrian Empire, known for its military prowess and expansionist policies, often deployed its generals to lead campaigns in the Levant, including the regions of Israel and Judah. In 2 Kings 18:17, Tartan is one of the three Assyrian officials sent by King Sennacherib to Jerusalem during the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah. This event is part of the larger Assyrian campaign against Judah, which included the siege of Jerusalem. The presence of Tartan, along with the Rabsaris and the Rabshakeh, underscores the seriousness of the Assyrian threat and the high level of military leadership involved in the campaign. Isaiah 20:1 references another campaign led by Tartan, this time under the command of King Sargon II of Assyria. Tartan's mission to Ashdod, a Philistine city, resulted in its capture, demonstrating the effectiveness and reach of the Assyrian military machine. This event is significant as it highlights the Assyrian strategy of subduing rebellious vassal states and securing their dominance in the region. Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, the mention of Tartan and the Assyrian campaigns serves as a backdrop to the prophetic messages delivered by Isaiah and other prophets. The Assyrian threat is often portrayed as a tool of divine judgment against the nations, including Israel and Judah, for their disobedience and idolatry. The prophets warned that reliance on foreign alliances and neglect of covenantal faithfulness would lead to destruction and exile. The presence of Tartan in the biblical narrative also emphasizes the sovereignty of God over the nations. Despite the might of the Assyrian Empire, the biblical text consistently affirms that God is in control of history and uses even the most powerful empires to accomplish His purposes. The eventual downfall of Assyria serves as a reminder of the transient nature of human power in contrast to the eternal kingdom of God. Cultural and Archaeological Insights: The title "Tartan" has been corroborated by Assyrian inscriptions and records, which provide additional context to the biblical accounts. Assyrian annals and reliefs depict their military campaigns and the roles of high-ranking officials like Tartan, offering insights into the organization and strategies of the Assyrian army. Archaeological discoveries, such as the ruins of Lachish and Ashdod, provide tangible evidence of the Assyrian conquests mentioned in the Bible. These findings help to illuminate the historical and cultural setting of the biblical narrative, enhancing our understanding of the events described in the Scriptures. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 18:17And 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 Isaiah 20:1 Strong's Hebrew 8661. Tartan -- general, commander (title of an Assyr. general)... general) NASB Word Usage commander (1), Tartan (1). Tartan. Of foreign derivation; Tartan, an Assyrian -- Tartan. 8660, 8661. Tartan. 8662 . Strong's Numbers /hebrew/8661.htm - 6k Library The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria The Rise of the Assyrian Empire Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... How Sennacherib Made an Expedition against Hezekiah; What Sennacherib (705-681 BC ) The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal Sargon of Assyria (722-705 BC ) Babylonia and Assyria Resources Tartan: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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