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Book of 2 Kings - Chapter 19 - Verse 36

19:36
So Sennacherib king of Assyria departed, and went and returned, and dwelt at Nineveh.

Meaning

After his failed attempt to conquer Jerusalem, Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, departed for his own land and went back to Nineveh, where he chose to dwell. This verse signifies the end of his campaign against Hezekiah and the people of Judah. Sennacherib's retreat marked a turning point in the conflict, as it demonstrated the power and protection of God over His chosen people. It also serves as a reminder of the consequences of defying the will of the Almighty. By returning to Nineveh, Sennacherib acknowledged his defeat and the futility of his efforts to overcome the Israelites. This event ultimately led to the downfall of the Assyrian empire, showing that no kingdom or ruler can stand against the might of God. The verse highlights the importance of faith and obedience in the face of adversity, as well as the ultimate triumph of righteousness over evil.

Theological Overview

In this verse, we see an interesting shift in the actions of Sennacherib, the king of Assyria. After his failed attempt to conquer Jerusalem and destroy the city, he departs and returns to Nineveh, the capital of Assyria. The theological interpretation of this verse can be seen as a reflection of the sovereignty of God over the plans and actions of earthly rulers. Despite Sennacherib's arrogance and military might, his defeat ultimately shows that God's purposes cannot be thwarted. This verse also highlights the importance of recognizing when to retreat and acknowledge defeat, as Sennacherib's retreat to Nineveh symbolizes a moment of humility and acceptance of his limitations. Furthermore, a word study of 'Nineveh' reveals its significance as a powerful city in Assyria, known for its wickedness and eventual destruction as prophesied by the prophet Jonah. Thus, the mention of Sennacherib dwelling at Nineveh carries a deeper meaning of recognizing the consequences of pride and the eventual downfall of those who oppose God's plans.

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