Topical Encyclopedia Tiglath-Pileser III, also known as Pul in some biblical references, was a prominent king of Assyria who reigned from approximately 745 to 727 BC. His reign marked a significant period in the history of the ancient Near East, characterized by military expansion and administrative reforms that strengthened the Assyrian Empire. Tiglath-Pileser III is notably recognized in the biblical narrative for his invasions of Israel and the subsequent deportation of its people, events that had profound implications for the Northern Kingdom.Invasion of Israel The biblical account of Tiglath-Pileser III's involvement with Israel is primarily found in the books of 2 Kings and 1 Chronicles. During the reign of King Pekah of Israel, Tiglath-Pileser III launched a series of military campaigns against the Northern Kingdom. The geopolitical landscape of the time was marked by shifting alliances and power struggles, with Israel often caught between the dominant empires of Assyria and Egypt. In 2 Kings 15:29 , it is recorded: "In the days of Pekah king of Israel, Tiglath-Pileser king of Assyria came and captured Ijon, Abel-beth-maacah, Janoah, Kedesh, Hazor, Gilead, and Galilee—all the land of Naphtali—and he took the people to Assyria." This passage highlights the extent of Tiglath-Pileser's conquest, as he captured significant territories in the northern regions of Israel, including Galilee and Gilead. Deportation and Captivity The Assyrian policy of deportation was a strategic measure designed to prevent rebellion and integrate conquered peoples into the empire. By relocating populations, Assyria aimed to dilute national identities and reduce the likelihood of insurrection. The deportation of Israelites by Tiglath-Pileser III is a critical event in the history of Israel, as it marked the beginning of the end for the Northern Kingdom. 1 Chronicles 5:26 further elaborates on this event: "So the God of Israel stirred the spirit of Pul king of Assyria (that is, Tiglath-Pileser king of Assyria), who took the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh into exile. He brought them to Halah, Habor, Hara, and the river of Gozan, where they remain to this day." This verse underscores the divine orchestration perceived in these events, as well as the specific locations to which the Israelites were exiled. Impact on Israel The incursions of Tiglath-Pileser III had lasting effects on the Northern Kingdom of Israel. The loss of territory and population weakened Israel politically and economically, setting the stage for its eventual fall to the Assyrian Empire under Tiglath-Pileser's successors. The deportation of the Israelites contributed to the dispersion of the ten tribes, often referred to as the "Lost Tribes of Israel," a subject of much historical and theological interest. Tiglath-Pileser III's actions are seen within the biblical narrative as part of God's judgment against Israel for its idolatry and disobedience. The prophets of the time, such as Hosea and Amos, warned of impending judgment and called for repentance, but their messages went largely unheeded, leading to the fulfillment of these prophecies through Assyrian conquest. Historical and Archaeological Corroboration The historical existence and campaigns of Tiglath-Pileser III are well-documented outside the biblical text through Assyrian inscriptions and annals. These records provide a detailed account of his military exploits and administrative reforms, corroborating the biblical narrative of his invasions and deportations. The archaeological evidence supports the biblical portrayal of Assyria as a dominant and formidable power during this period. Tiglath-Pileser III remains a significant figure in biblical history, representing the instrument of divine judgment and the complexities of international politics in the ancient Near East. His legacy is a testament to the intricate interplay between divine sovereignty and human agency as depicted in the biblical narrative. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 15:29In the days of Pekah king of Israel came Tiglathpileser king of Assyria, and took Ijon, and Abelbethmaachah, and Janoah, and Kedesh, and Hazor, and Gilead, and Galilee, all the land of Naphtali, and carried them captive to Assyria. Nave's Topical Index 1 Chronicles 5:6,26 Resources What is the significance of the land of Gilead in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho were the Edomites? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of Damascus in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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