Book of 2 Kings - Chapter 17 - Verse 24

During the time of the Assyrian conquest of the Kingdom of Israel, the Assyrian king brought people from various regions including Babylon, Cuthah, Ava, Hamath, and Sepharvaim to populate the cities of Samaria. This was part of the Assyrian policy of forced resettlement, known as deportation, which aimed to weaken conquered peoples by dispersing them and replacing them with foreigners. By bringing in people from different lands to settle in Samaria, the Assyrians sought to prevent any rebellion or uprising among the Israelites who had been exiled. This act not only changed the demographic makeup of Samaria but also symbolized the loss of identity and homeland for the children of Israel. The verse serves as a historical account of the Assyrian conquest and the consequences it had on the people of Israel.

In this verse from 2 Kings 17:24, we see the king of Assyria bringing people from different regions to inhabit the cities of Samaria after the deportation of the Israelites. The theological interpretation of this event reflects the consequences of disobedience and idolatry among the children of Israel. The Assyrians' actions symbolize God's judgment upon the Israelites for turning away from Him and worshiping false gods. The inclusion of specific locations such as Babylon, Cuthah, Ava, Hamath, and Sepharvaim highlights the diversity of the people brought to Samaria, emphasizing the displacement of the Israelites from their land as a result of their sins. Through this verse, we see the importance of remaining faithful to God and the consequences that come from straying from His commandments.