MPV Commentary

He Destroys Idolatry.

4 He removed the high places and broke in pieces the images, among other measures to eradicate idolatry and bring about a thorough reform in religion (2Ch 20:3; 31:19). However, these actions are briefly mentioned and alluded to in passing.

Breaking in pieces the brazen serpent was a remarkable act of courage and resolution. This relic from ancient times had been preserved as a testament to God's goodness and mercy during the Israelites' wilderness journey (Nu 21:5-10). But over time, it became an object of idolatrous worship, and its destruction was necessary for the advancement of true religion. By taking this bold step, Hezekiah consulted both the glory of God and the good of his country.

The children of Israel had been burning incense to the serpent as late as the time of Hezekiah's reign. However, it is unlikely that this idolatrous practice began during David or Solomon's early years, nor would Asa or Jehoshaphat have tolerated such folly if they were aware of it. The introduction of this superstition likely dates back to the influence of Ahab's family on Judah's throne. Some believe its origin may have arisen from a misinterpretation of Moses' language (Nu 21:8). Serpent worship, though revolting, was a widespread form of idolatry that gained acceptance in Israel due to its prevalence among neighboring nations.

5-6 Hezekiah trusted in the Lord God of Israel without seeking foreign aid or alliances like Asa and Ahaz. This trust earned him a reputation as one of Judah's greatest kings.

7-8 He rebelled against the king of Assyria, refusing to pay the annual tribute his father had agreed upon. By doing so, he pursued a truly theocratic policy, relying on God's blessing to strengthen his government and secure independence for Judah. Shalmaneser had withdrawn from Palestine, possibly due to a war with Tyre or his own death. Hezekiah seized this opportunity to assert full sovereignty over Judah, shaking off the Assyrian yoke and recovering territory taken by the Philistines during Ahaz's reign (2Ch 28:18).

13 Sennacherib, Shalmaneser's son and successor, led a massive army against Judah. He targeted all the fortified cities in Judah, although some strongholds remained unconquered (2Ki 18:17; 19:8). The account of Sennacherib's invasion and the destruction of his army is repeated almost verbatim in 2Ch 32:1-33 and Isa 36:1-37:38. This expedition was likely aimed at Egypt, which had long been a coveted prize for Assyrian monarchs. However, Judah's strategic location made it a necessary conquest before proceeding to Egypt.

Sennacherib laid siege to the fortress of Lachish, situated southwest of Jerusalem on the road to Egypt (Robinson). Recent excavations have uncovered bas-reliefs depicting the siege of Lachish and featuring Sennacherib as the king. The inscription on these sculptures confirms the accuracy of the biblical account.

14-16 Hezekiah sent a message to Lachish, acknowledging his inability to resist Sennacherib's army and offering to pay 300 talents of silver and 30 talents of gold (approximately £351,000) in tribute. This payment brought temporary relief but required Hezekiah to strip the temple of its gold-adorned doors and pillars to meet the imposed demands.