Against him came up Shalmaneser king of Assyria; and Hoshea became his servant, and gave him presents.
Shalmaneser, the king of Assyria, came up against him in battle. Hoshea became his servant and paid him tribute.
This verse describes how King Hoshea of Israel was forced to surrender to the Assyrian king and become his vassal, paying tribute to avoid total destruction.
📚 Historical Context
During the 8th century BC, the Assyrian Empire was a dominant military power in the ancient Near East, expanding through conquests and demanding tribute from weaker nations. Hoshea, the last king of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, had initially rebelled against Assyrian control but was forced to submit to King Shalmaneser V, becoming his vassal and paying tribute as described in this verse. This event reflects the broader historical pattern of Israel's vulnerability due to internal divisions and failed alliances.
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