The Bible describes Sennacherib’s invasion of Hezekiah’s Judah in three different books. Sennacherib dedicated a central room in his palace to this same event. Clearly, it made an impression all around.
All three biblical accounts describe Sennacherib’s army coming to Jerusalem after conquering the city of Lachish. Take a look at 2 Kings 18:13-17, 2 Chronicles 32:9, Isaiah 36:2 and 37:8 then view this video showing Assyria’s “graphic novel” of the war. The biblical and Assyrian versions end at different places, but both are dramatic.
Sennacherib’s wall panels describing the attack are in the British Museum in London. Admission is free and the museum’s resources are amazing, so plan a few hours to enjoy the visit. When you go, I recommend taking an occasional break to sit down and refresh your mind & body with drinks and food from the museum’s cafes. You can also have fun browsing its extensive and varied gift shop items. There’s something for everyone.
If you visit the British Museum by February 24, 2019, I highly recommend the special exhibit “I am Ashurbarnipal, King of the World, King of Assyria.” It is a well done, insightful look at the Assyrian Empire at its zenith. You will enjoy a number of items not normally shown at the museum plus technological displays that highlight details you will never forget.
HT: Barnea Selavan for posting his own video of these panels on Facebook a few months ago, and for recommending the special exhibit. It was worth the visit.
