The title "The Great King, the King of Assyria" is a designation used in the Bible to refer to the monarchs of the Assyrian Empire, a dominant Mesopotamian power during the first millennium BC. The Assyrian kings are frequently mentioned in the Old Testament, particularly in the context of their interactions with the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. The Assyrian Empire, known for its military prowess and administrative efficiency, played a significant role in the history of the ancient Near East and in the biblical narrative.

Historical Context

The Assyrian Empire reached its zenith between the 9th and 7th centuries BC, with its capital at Nineveh. The empire was known for its advanced military technology, including iron weapons and siege engines, and its policy of mass deportations, which aimed to prevent rebellion by dispersing conquered peoples. The Assyrian kings were often seen as instruments of divine judgment against the nations, including Israel and Judah, due to their idolatry and disobedience to God.

Biblical References

1. Tiglath-Pileser III: Known as Pul in the Bible, Tiglath-Pileser III is mentioned in 2 Kings 15:19-20 and 1 Chronicles 5:26. He is noted for his campaigns against Israel and his role in the deportation of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh.

2. Shalmaneser V: He is mentioned in 2 Kings 17:3-6 as the king who besieged Samaria, leading to the fall of the Northern Kingdom of Israel in 722 BC. The Bible attributes the fall of Samaria to the Israelites' sins against the LORD.

3. Sargon II: Although not named directly in the Bible, Sargon II is the successor of Shalmaneser V and is believed to have completed the conquest of Samaria. Isaiah 20:1 refers to the capture of Ashdod by "Sargon king of Assyria."

4. Sennacherib: One of the most prominent Assyrian kings in the Bible, Sennacherib is known for his campaign against Judah during the reign of King Hezekiah. In 2 Kings 18-19, Isaiah 36-37, and 2 Chronicles 32, Sennacherib's invasion is described, including the miraculous deliverance of Jerusalem after Hezekiah's prayer and the intervention of the angel of the LORD, which resulted in the death of 185,000 Assyrian soldiers (2 Kings 19:35).

5. Esarhaddon: Mentioned in 2 Kings 19:37 and Isaiah 37:38, Esarhaddon is the son of Sennacherib who succeeded him after his assassination. He is noted for his rebuilding efforts and further expansion of the Assyrian Empire.

Theological Significance

The Assyrian kings are often depicted as instruments of God's judgment against the nations, including Israel and Judah, for their unfaithfulness. The prophets, such as Isaiah and Micah, frequently warned of the impending Assyrian threat as a consequence of the people's sins. However, the Bible also emphasizes God's sovereignty over the nations, as seen in the miraculous deliverance of Jerusalem from Sennacherib's forces. This event underscores the theme of divine protection and the futility of human pride against the will of God.

Prophetic Literature

The prophets Isaiah, Hosea, and Micah provide significant commentary on the Assyrian threat. Isaiah, in particular, speaks of Assyria as the "rod of My anger" (Isaiah 10:5), used by God to discipline His people. Yet, the prophets also foretell the eventual downfall of Assyria, highlighting the temporary nature of its power and the ultimate triumph of God's purposes.

In summary, the Assyrian kings, referred to as "The Great King, the King of Assyria," are central figures in the biblical narrative, representing both the judgment and mercy of God. Their interactions with Israel and Judah serve as a backdrop for the unfolding of God's redemptive plan in history.