Assyria, an ancient Mesopotamian empire, is frequently mentioned in the Bible as a dominant and formidable power. Its influence and interactions with the Israelites and other nations are depicted throughout the Old Testament. The Assyrian Empire, known for its military prowess and administrative efficiency, was also characterized by its selfish and reserved nature, as evidenced by its actions and policies.

Selfishness of Assyria

The Assyrian Empire's expansionist policies were driven by a desire for wealth, power, and control. This selfish ambition is evident in their relentless conquests and subjugation of neighboring nations. The prophet Isaiah highlights Assyria's arrogance and self-centeredness, portraying the empire as a tool of God's judgment, yet one that overstepped its bounds due to its pride. Isaiah 10:7-8 states, "But this is not his intention; this is not his plan. For it is in his heart to destroy and cut off many nations. For he says, ‘Are not my commanders all kings?’"

Assyria's selfishness is further illustrated in its treatment of conquered peoples. The empire imposed heavy tributes and taxes, exploiting the resources of subjugated nations for its own gain. This oppressive behavior is condemned by the prophets, who decry Assyria's greed and lack of compassion. Nahum 3:1 describes Nineveh, the Assyrian capital, as a "city of blood, full of lies, full of plunder, never without prey."

Reserved Nature of Assyria

While Assyria was aggressive in its expansion, it was also reserved in its diplomatic relations, often isolating itself from alliances that did not serve its immediate interests. The empire's reserved nature is seen in its interactions with other powerful entities of the time. Assyria preferred to dominate rather than collaborate, maintaining a distance from potential allies unless it was strategically advantageous.

This reserved approach is evident in the biblical narrative of King Ahaz of Judah, who sought Assyrian assistance against his enemies. Instead of forming a genuine alliance, Assyria used the opportunity to assert its dominance over Judah. 2 Kings 16:7-9 recounts how Ahaz sent messengers to Tiglath-Pileser, king of Assyria, saying, "I am your servant and your vassal. Come up and save me out of the hand of the king of Aram and the king of Israel, who are rising up against me." Assyria's response was calculated and self-serving, ultimately leading to Judah's subjugation.

The reserved nature of Assyria is also reflected in its cultural and religious practices. The empire maintained a distinct identity, often imposing its own gods and customs on conquered peoples while remaining aloof from foreign influences. This cultural reservation reinforced Assyria's sense of superiority and separateness, further fueling its imperial ambitions.

In summary, Assyria's role as a power in the biblical narrative is marked by its selfish and reserved characteristics. Its relentless pursuit of power and wealth, coupled with a reserved approach to diplomacy and cultural integration, underscores the empire's complex and often antagonistic relationship with the nations of the ancient Near East.Hosea 8:9
For they are gone up to Assyria, a wild ass alone by himself: Ephraim has hired lovers.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Twelve Minor Prophets.
... at the same time a covenant with Assyria (12:1 ... by the Chaldean armies, whose resistless
power he describes in ... cause of God's house and their selfish devotion to ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xxiii the twelve minor.htm

Mongrel Religion
... Jehovah, even though that fear was a selfish and servile ... The king of Assyria sent
them a priest: he could not ... be any holiness, if there be any power, the man ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 27 1881/mongrel religion.htm

Bunsen's Biblical Researches.
... gifts, and that the King of Assyria signified King ... receiving, explain the
wonder-working power with which he ... and time, and practically the selfish nature with ...
/.../essays and reviews the education of the world/bunsens biblical researches.htm

And ii.
... the prophets with regard to Assyria are, from ... own consciences,"as indeed material
power everywhere seeks ... described as hypocritical, weak, and selfish, and is ...
/.../hengstenberg/christology of the old testament/chap i and ii.htm

The Political Constitution of Egypt
... Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 2. ... could do so, Pharaoh immediately
desired to test his power. ... in the latter case, he reserved for himself ...
/.../chapter ithe political constitution of.htm

Ancient Chaldaea
... the night, would there lose its creative power, or the ... gods; the fifth, our Jupiter,
he reserved for himself ... west towards the east in the direction of Assyria. ...
/.../chapter iancient chaldaea.htm

Who was King Hoshea in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

When and how was Nineveh destroyed? | GotQuestions.org

What is British Israelism and is it biblical? | GotQuestions.org

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