2 kings 19:10 - ‘Tell Hezekiah king of Judah this: “Don’t let your God in whom you trust deceive you, saying, Jerusalem will not be given into the hand of the king of Assyria.

Generated Verse: 2 kings 19:10

What does "2 kings 19:10" mean?


This verse is part of a message from Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, to Hezekiah, the king of Judah. Let's break it down:

"‘Tell Hezekiah king of Judah this:" This is the introduction, clearly identifying the intended recipient of the message.

"“Don’t let your God in whom you trust deceive you..." This is the core of the Assyrian king's threat. He is trying to undermine Hezekiah's faith in Yahweh (God of Israel). Sennacherib is suggesting that Hezekiah's belief that God will protect Jerusalem is misplaced.

"...saying, Jerusalem will not be given into the hand of the king of Assyria." This directly challenges Hezekiah's hope for divine intervention. Sennacherib is asserting that Jerusalem will fall to the Assyrian army, regardless of what Hezekiah believes about God's protection.

In essence, the verse is a form of psychological warfare. Sennacherib is trying to break Hezekiah's spirit by:

Planting doubt: Suggesting that God might not be as powerful or reliable as Hezekiah believes.
Intimidation: Asserting the inevitability of Assyrian victory, regardless of Hezekiah's faith.
Challenging authority: Directly contradicting any prophecies or reassurances Hezekiah might have received from prophets like Isaiah.

Context is important: This message is delivered during a time when the Assyrian army has already conquered many other fortified cities in Judah. Hezekiah is under immense pressure and facing what seems like an insurmountable military threat. Sennacherib is capitalizing on this situation to try to force Hezekiah's surrender without a fight. The Assyrian is saying, "Don't be foolish and rely on your God. We are too powerful. Surrender now."

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