36:12 36:12

Isaiah 36:13

36:14 36:14

Bible Versions

Then Rabshakeh stood, and cried with a loud voice in the Jews' language, and said, Hear ye the words of the great king, the king of Assyria.
Then Rabshakeh {H7262} stood {H5975}, and cried {H7121} with a loud {H1419} voice {H6963} in the Jews' language {H3066}, and said {H559}, Hear {H8085} ye the words {H1697} of the great {H1419} king {H4428}, the king {H4428} of Assyria {H804}.
Then Rav-Shakeh stood up and, speaking loudly in Hebrew, said: "Hear what the great king, the king of Ashur, says!
Then the Rabshakeh stood and called out loudly in Hebrew: “Hear the words of the great king, the king of Assyria!
Then Rabshakeh stood, and cried with a loud voice in the Jews’ language, and said, Hear ye the words of the great king, the king of Assyria.

Context

Isaiah 36:13 is a pivotal moment in the historical narrative detailing the Assyrian invasion of Judah during the reign of King Hezekiah (circa 701 BC). This chapter, which parallels accounts in 2 Kings 18-19 and 2 Chronicles 32, describes the siege of Jerusalem by the mighty Assyrian army under King Sennacherib. After conquering many fortified cities of Judah, Sennacherib sends his high-ranking officials, including the Rabshakeh, to demand Jerusalem's surrender.

The scene is set outside the walls of Jerusalem, where the Rabshakeh, a chief spokesman for the Assyrian king, begins his psychological warfare. His address is not merely a diplomatic overture but a calculated attempt to break the morale of the people and undermine their trust in King Hezekiah and, more importantly, in the Lord their God.

Key Themes

  • Psychological Warfare and Intimidation: The verse highlights the Assyrian strategy of using fear and demoralization. Rabshakeh's loud proclamation in the native tongue was designed to directly address and terrify the common people, bypassing the officials who spoke Aramaic (the diplomatic language). This was an attempt to sow discord and panic within the besieged city.
  • The Power of Words: Rabshakeh's deliberate choice to speak in "the Jews' language" underscores the strategic use of communication. He intended for his message of Assyrian might and Jerusalem's impending doom to be clearly understood by everyone, not just the leaders. This sets the stage for a spiritual battle waged through words, where the Assyrian king's boasts challenge the sovereignty of God.
  • Human Arrogance vs. Divine Sovereignty: The Rabshakeh's declaration, "Hear ye the words of the great king, the king of Assyria," showcases the immense pride and perceived invincibility of the Assyrian empire. This bold challenge directly contrasts with Judah's reliance on the unseen, yet supremely powerful, God. The narrative unfolds to demonstrate that no earthly king, no matter how great, can stand against the Lord of Hosts.

Linguistic Insights

  • Rabshakeh: This is not a personal name but an Assyrian military title, likely meaning "chief cupbearer" or "chief officer." As a high-ranking official, he possessed authority and was empowered to speak on behalf of King Sennacherib. His role as a propagandist is evident in his public address.
  • "Jews' language": This refers to Hebrew, the native language of the people of Judah. The fact that Rabshakeh chose to speak Hebrew, rather than Aramaic (the common diplomatic language of the time understood by officials), indicates his intention to directly influence the common citizens and sow fear among them.

Practical Application

This ancient account offers timeless lessons for modern challenges:

  • Facing Intimidation: We often encounter "Rabshakehs" in our lives—voices of fear, doubt, or overwhelming circumstances that seek to undermine our faith and resolve. These voices might come from external pressures, media, or even internal anxieties. The passage reminds us to discern whose "words" we are truly listening to.
  • Trusting in God Amidst Threats: Just as Hezekiah and the people of Jerusalem were called to trust in God despite the overwhelming Assyrian threat, we are called to place our confidence in God's power and faithfulness when facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The ensuing chapters of Isaiah describe Hezekiah's desperate prayer and God's miraculous deliverance, demonstrating that human might is nothing compared to divine intervention.
  • The Battle of Words: The story highlights how words can be used for both destruction and encouragement. It's a reminder to guard our hearts against negative influences and to speak words that build up faith and hope, echoing the truth of God's promises rather than succumbing to fear. Trust in God's sovereignty over human might, echoing Psalm 20:7.
Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 2 Chronicles 32:18

    Then they cried with a loud voice in the Jews' speech unto the people of Jerusalem that [were] on the wall, to affright them, and to trouble them; that they might take the city.

  • Ezekiel 31:3

    Behold, the Assyrian [was] a cedar in Lebanon with fair branches, and with a shadowing shroud, and of an high stature; and his top was among the thick boughs.

  • Ezekiel 31:10

    ¶ Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Because thou hast lifted up thyself in height, and he hath shot up his top among the thick boughs, and his heart is lifted up in his height;

  • Psalms 17:10

    They are inclosed in their own fat: with their mouth they speak proudly.

  • Psalms 17:13

    Arise, O LORD, disappoint him, cast him down: deliver my soul from the wicked, [which is] thy sword:

  • 2 Kings 18:28

    Then Rabshakeh stood and cried with a loud voice in the Jews' language, and spake, saying, Hear the word of the great king, the king of Assyria:

  • 2 Kings 18:32

    Until I come and take you away to a land like your own land, a land of corn and wine, a land of bread and vineyards, a land of oil olive and of honey, that ye may live, and not die: and hearken not unto Hezekiah, when he persuadeth you, saying, The LORD will deliver us.
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