Isaiah 36: King Sennacherib’s Siege of Judah

Introduction: Isaiah 36 recounts the historical event of Assyria’s King Sennacherib’s siege on Jerusalem during the reign of King Hezekiah. The chapter presents a powerful narrative of the opposition faced by the people of Judah and their king, and the subsequent response by God’s prophet, Isaiah. The chapter serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness to his people and the importance of trusting in Him during times of trouble.

I. Isaiah 36:1-3 – The Assyrian Threat
The chapter opens with the Assyrian army, led by King Sennacherib, laying siege to the fortified cities of Judah (Isaiah 36:1). Hezekiah sends out three of his officials to meet with the Assyrian field commander to discuss the terms of surrender (Isaiah 36:2-3). This scenario mirrors the historical accounts found in 2 Kings 18:13-18 and 2 Chronicles 32:1-8, where the Assyrians threatened Jerusalem, and Hezekiah sought to negotiate peace.

II. Isaiah 36:4-10 – The Field Commander’s Message
The Assyrian field commander delivers a message of intimidation, questioning Hezekiah’s reliance on Egypt for military support and his trust in the Lord (Isaiah 36:4-7). He asserts that the Lord Himself told him to come and destroy Jerusalem (Isaiah 36:10). This message is meant to sow doubt and fear among the people of Judah. This tactic of psychological warfare is seen in other instances in Scripture, such as Goliath’s taunts against Israel in 1 Samuel 17:8-10.

III. Isaiah 36:11-12 – The Response of Hezekiah’s Officials
Hezekiah’s officials plead with the field commander to speak in Aramaic to avoid alarming the people of Jerusalem who are listening to the conversation (Isaiah 36:11). The commander refuses, insisting on speaking in Hebrew to ensure that the people hear the Assyrian threats (Isaiah 36:12). This exchange highlights the concern of Hezekiah’s officials for the morale of their people, akin to Moses’ concern for the Israelites when faced with the Red Sea in Exodus 14:13-14.

IV. Isaiah 36:13-20 – The Field Commander’s Speech to the People
The field commander addresses the people of Jerusalem, urging them not to be deceived by Hezekiah’s assurances that the Lord will save them (Isaiah 36:13-15). He compares the God of Israel to the powerless gods of other nations that the Assyrians have conquered (Isaiah 36:18-20). This blasphemy mirrors the challenges faced by other faithful figures in the Bible, such as Daniel’s friends in the fiery furnace (Daniel 3:15-18).

V. Isaiah 36:21-22 – The People’s Silence and Report to Hezekiah
The people of Jerusalem remain silent, following Hezekiah’s command not to answer the field commander (Isaiah 36:21). The officials return to Hezekiah, tearing their clothes in distress over the situation (Isaiah 36:22). This act of mourning is a common expression of grief and helplessness found in Scripture, evident in Job’s reaction to his afflictions in Job 1:20.

Conclusion: Isaiah 36 presents a dramatic encounter between the people of Judah and the intimidating forces of Assyria. The chapter underscores the importance of remaining steadfast in faith and trusting in God’s deliverance, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. The narrative serves as an inspiration to believers, reminding them that God is sovereign and will not forsake those who put their hope in Him. Through it all, Hezekiah’s officials demonstrate a commendable concern for their people, and the people’s silence reflects their obedience to their king’s command, highlighting the value of unity and obedience in times of crisis.