In this account, the Assyrians are attempting to conquer all of Judah, including Jerusalem. Though the names may be challenging for English speakers, the details are fascinating. In short, the Assyrians have been very successful in sacking the cities of Judah, except for Jerusalem. Hezekiah, the king of Judah, has been in a security alliance with Egypt, but that is failing. The Assyrian representatives are doing their best to humiliate Hezekiah, reminding him of the inability of Egypt to protect Jerusalem. The Assyrian desire is to secure a surrender rather than go into battle in the Holy City.
Most readers get the drift of the back and forth between the Assyrians and the men of Judah, but often overlook a critical element of the story. At a certain point (vs. 26), fearing a loss of heart by the men of Judah who were working on the wall, Hezekiah’s representatives ask the Assyrians to “speak to us in Aramaic.” The Assyrians understand that people best understand things in their heart language. Since they want to secure a surrender from the men of Judah, the Assyrians continue their belligerence in Hebrew (vs. 28). Although the men of Judah, from the workers to the king were disheartened, they did not give up on the Lord’s hand for deliverance.
As you think through this story, think about some important messages that you are happy you received in your heart language. List two of those messages and explain why it was important to you to hear those messages in your heart language.
Comments are closed