2 Kings 18:27
But Rabshakeh said unto them, Hath my master sent me to thy master, and to thee, to speak these words? hath he not sent me to the men which sit on the wall, that they may eat their own dung, and drink their own piss with you?
2 Kings 18:27 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, Rabshakeh, a high-ranking official of the Assyrian king, is taunting the people of Jerusalem during a siege. He is essentially saying that his message is not meant for the leaders of Jerusalem but for the common people who are suffering inside the city. By speaking in such crude and insulting terms, Rabshakeh is trying to demoralize the people of Jerusalem and undermine their confidence in their leaders' ability to protect them. The mention of eating dung and drinking urine is a way to emphasize the severity of the situation they are facing and to instill fear and hopelessness among the inhabitants of Jerusalem. This verse serves as an example of psychological warfare tactics used in ancient times to weaken the resolve of those under siege.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse sheds light on the biblical perspective of divine judgment and the consequences of rejecting God. The harsh words spoken by Rabshakeh were not merely meant as insults, but as a warning of the severe judgment awaiting those who rebel against God. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God's commands, as disobedience can lead to unimaginable destruction and suffering. It also serves as a reminder of the consequences of relying on human strength and wisdom rather than trusting in God's provision and protection.
Word studies of the terms "eat their own dung" and "drink their own piss" reveal the extreme nature of divine judgment and punishment in biblical times. These phrases were used to depict the degradation and humiliation that would befall those who turned away from God. The use of such graphic imagery emphasizes the severity of the consequences of disobeying God's commands and the seriousness with which divine judgment should be regarded. It serves as a stark warning to those who choose to rebel against God, reminding them of the grave consequences of their actions.
2 Kings 18:27 in other translations
American Standard Version
But Rabshakeh said unto them, Hath my master sent me to thy master, and to thee, to speak these words? [hath he] not [sent me] to the men that sit on the wall, to eat their own dung, and to drink their own water with you?
World English Bible
But Rabshakeh said to them, “Has my master sent me to your master, and to you, to speak these words? Hasn’t he sent me to the men who sit on the wall, to eat their own dung, and to drink their own water with you?”
Douay-Rheims
And Rabsaces answered them, saying: Hath my master sent me to thy master, and to thee, to speak these words, and not rather to the men that sit upon the wall, that they may eat their own dung, and drink their urine with you?
Geneva Bible (1599)
But Rabshakeh saide vnto them, Hath my master sent me to thy master and to thee to speake these words, and not to the men which sit on the wall, that they may eate their owne doung, and drinke their owne pisse with you?