Isaiah 36:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 36:2
2 And the king of Assyria sent Rabshakeh from Lachish to Jerusalem unto king Hezekiah with a great army. And he stood by the conduit of the upper pool in the highway of the fuller's field.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 36 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, love, truth. Written during the Assyrian and pre-exilic periods (c. 740-680 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed Judah during Assyria's rise, Babylon's threat, and anticipated restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Isaiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Isaiah 36:2
2 And the king of Assyria sent Rabshakeh from Lachish to Jerusalem unto king Hezekiah with a great army. And he stood by the conduit of the upper pool in the highway of the fuller's field.
Analysis
Rabshakeh was the Assyrian field commander sent with a large army to Jerusalem. His position at the "conduit of the upper pool" was strategic—threatening Jerusalem's water supply demonstrated Assyria's power to besiege the city. This geographical detail emphasizes the real historical threat. The large army's presence was psychological warfare, meant to intimidate. This sets the stage for God's dramatic deliverance, showing that human military might means nothing when God defends His people.
Historical Context
This occurred in 701 BC during Hezekiah's 14th year. Sennacherib had already conquered 46 fortified Judean cities. Jerusalem appeared next on the list.
Reflection
- How does God allow His people to face overwhelming threats to display His power?
- What modern "armies" threaten to overwhelm believers today?
- How should we respond when facing seemingly impossible opposition?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 7:3