Isaiah 10:8
For he saith, Are not my princes altogether kings?
Original Language Analysis
כִּ֖י
H3588
כִּ֖י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
1 of 6
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
הֲלֹ֥א
H3808
הֲלֹ֥א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
3 of 6
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
Cross References
2 Kings 18:24How then wilt thou turn away the face of one captain of the least of my master's servants, and put thy trust on Egypt for chariots and for horsemen?2 Kings 19:10Thus shall ye speak to Hezekiah king of Judah, saying, Let not thy God in whom thou trustest deceive thee, saying, Jerusalem shall not be delivered into the hand of the king of Assyria.
Historical Context
The Assyrian Empire (911-609 BC) was the ancient world's first true superpower, known for brutal military campaigns and mass deportations. Their provincial governors ('princes') indeed ruled with near-absolute power. Sennacherib's invasion of Judah (701 BC) demonstrated this arrogance, as recorded both in Scripture (2 Kings 18-19) and in Assyrian annals. The Assyrians viewed their conquests as proof of their gods' superiority, never recognizing they were instruments in Yahweh's hand.
Questions for Reflection
- How does attributing success to our own power rather than God's sovereignty reveal pride in our hearts?
- What does God's use of proud nations for His purposes teach about His sovereignty over human history?
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Analysis & Commentary
The Assyrian king's boast reveals the pride that precedes destruction. His rhetorical question 'Are not my princes altogether kings?' displays the arrogance of attributing conquest to human power rather than divine sovereignty. Each Assyrian prince wielded kingly authority, making their combined force seem unstoppable. Yet this very pride—taking credit for what God had permitted—would become the instrument of their judgment. God uses proud nations to accomplish His purposes, then judges them for the pride with which they carried out His will (Isaiah 10:5-7, 12).