Podcasts about Assyrian

In this episode of Oldest Stories, we return to the Armenian Highlands in 786 BCE to witness the death of King Menua of Urartu (Biainilli) and the rise of his son Argishti I—a transition that begins the golden age of the Urartian kingdom. Explore the geopolitics, warfare, urbanization, and social engineering of one of the most impressive and least understood Iron Age empires.We trace Argishti I's ruthless expansion across Anatolia and the Caucasus, highlighting his staggering military campaigns—including the mass deportation of over 50,000 captives from the Diauehi—and the founding of major cities like Argishtikhinili and Erebuni (modern Yerevan). His reign marks a peak of Urartian power, economic integration, and cultural homogenization, supported by a complex bureaucracy and a militarized frontier strategy aimed at rival Assyria.The episode also dives into Argishti's successor, Sarduri II, and the approaching storm of Tiglath-Pileser III's Assyrian military revolution. We examine the collapse of Urartu's frontier buffer, the mysterious succession crisis involving multiple kings named Rusa, and the kingdom's eventual unraveling under Cimmerian pressure and internal fragmentation. From glorious conquest to slow collapse, we recount the full arc of Urartian dominance, with attention to archaeological gaps, historiographic debates, and ancient sources.Whether you're interested in Iron Age imperialism, ancient warfare, Near Eastern archaeology, or the origins of Armenian civilization, this episode offers deep insight into one of history's great highland kingdoms.#Urartu #Argishti #AncientArmenia #IronAge #OldestStoriesPodcast #Assyria #TiglathPileser #AncientHistory #Biainilli #Diauehi #Etiuni #Cimmerians #HistoryPodcast #NearEast #Yerevan #Archaeology #AncientWarfare #Khaldi #NeoHittites #Mesopotamia #KingsAndConquests #AncientEmpiresI am also doing daily history facts again, at least until I run out of time again. You can find Oldest Stories on Reels, Tiktok, and Youtube.If you like the show, consider sharing with your friends, leaving a like, subscribing, or even supporting financially:Buy the Oldest Stories books: https://a.co/d/7Wn4jhSDonate here: https://oldeststories.net/or on patreon: https://patreon.com/JamesBleckleyor on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCG2tPxnHNNvMd0VrInekaA/joinYoutube and Patreon members get access to bonus content about Egyptian culture and myths.

(Nahum 1:1-15) Nahum is writing to a downtrodden, disoriented, and despairing people. God's people have been victims of oppression for almost a century by the Assyrian empire. The question they were asking was, “Is God present? Is God strong? Will He save us?” Nahum's response is He is strong and He will save them and Nahum reinforces this truth by pointing them to God's power, God's jealousy, and God's salvation. Nahum teaches that not only is God strong, but He's also good. And because He is these things, we can be confident that no matter what we face, God will be faithful to save us.

Subscribe for more Videos: http://www.youtube.com/c/PlantationSDAChurchTV Theme: Through Christ, believers are set free from the penalty and power of sin, and the same anointing that broke the Assyrian yoke is available today to deliver, heal, and transform lives. Speaker: Pastor Latoya Smythe-Forbes Title: Yokes Broken By Anointing Key text: https://www.bible.com/bible/59/ISA.10.27.esv Bulletin/Notes: https://www.bible.com/events/223085 Date: May 24 Tags: #psdatv #burden #yoke #Christ #free #penalty #sin #Assyria #Assyrian #deliver #deliverance #heal #transform #transformation #Isaiah #BreakTheYoke #AnointedAndFree #NoMoreYokes For more life lessons and inspirational content, please visit us at http://www.plantationsda.tv. Church Copyright License (CCLI): 1659090 CCLI Streaming Plus License: 21338439 Support the show: https://adventistgiving.org/#/org/ANTBMV/envelope/startSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Prime Minister urges Indonesia to strengthen bilateral defence ties; the UN insists it won't back a US-backed aid effort in Gaza, as around 100 more people die in the latest strikes; and, in cycling, Aussies at both ends of the spectrum of fortune, after a chaotic stage six of the Giro D'Italia.

Startts and Shayna Humanitarian are joining forces to present a conference with Assyrian community leaders and health workers to discuss ways to expand the work with the community to deal with youth suicide. The conference will be held on Sunday, 31 May at Fairfield. Mr Oliver Slewa from Shayna Humanitarian says the invitation has been sent to more than 20 Assyrian organisations.

The Atour Drama Group recently staged their play Echoes of Yesterday, which explores the challenges of dementia and its profound impact on both patients and their families. Speaking to SBS, the play's writer and director, Zaya Roel, who shared that the goal of the production is to raise awareness within the Assyrian community about how to better support loved ones affected by this condition. The performance took place at Bankstown Theatre on Sunday, 18 May 2025.

News items read by Laura Kennedy include: New study of obsidian artifacts in Mexico points to large Mesoamerican trading network (details)(details) Research team uncovers diversity of pregnancy depictions among Viking age communities (details)(details) Excavation of new ancient relief depicts last great Assyrian king (details) Scientific analysis undermines hypothesis behind burial place of Macedonia's Phillip II (details)(details)

Joshua 2 describes Israel's spying out Jericho by the two spies that were sent by Joshua. Jericho was a fortified and powerful city and is the nation's first challenge in the conquest of the Promised Land. The spies select Rahab's house as their place to lodge and from there to conduct their reconnaissance. Rahab hid the two men among the flax on her roof when the king of Jericho sought their arrest. The city of Jericho was in a state of high alert with Israel's recent great conquests and the fact the city is likely to be Israel's next point of attack. Rahab feigns ignorance of the spies' whereabouts and tells the pursuers to swiftly pursue them that as have just left the city. In verses 8-11 Rahab tells of Yahweh's might and that without doubt He is the only true God. This she did prior to her hiding of the spies. Hebrews 11 verse 31 comments on her faith as the source for her motivation. James 2verse 25 says that her faith moved Rahab to act and by this she was justified. After the king of Jericho's men depart Rahab reminds the spies of the oath that they swore to her. A token of the covenant is the binding of a scarlet rope, by which the spies were let down the city's wall, being left suspended in Rahab's window. Follow the theme of the scarlet thread through the Bible and you will be amazed (start with Genesis 38:28). Rahab gives the spies advice on how to evade Jericho's hostile pursuers. For their part the spies declare that the oath will be honoured. The spies are greatly encouraged by the sign of victory that their mighty God has given them and they confidently say to Joshua that the LORD of hosts has given them the land Isaiah 8 tells of the prophet's wife bearing him a second son – Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz – whose name means: “in speeding to the spoil the enemy hastens against the prey”. This name spoke of the imminent Assyrian invasion of Immanuel's land. Isaiah says that when this happens and the mighty waters of the river will overflow and fill the breadth of the land almost swallowing the nation as those waters will be up to Judah's necks. In its path the Assyrian river would sweep away the kingdoms of Syria and Israel. Why would the Almighty bring such devastating destruction? It was because of Judah's refusal to heed the gentle and beseeching waters of Shiloah – meaning peaceful. Shiloah (and its variants) speak of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9verse 6; Genesis 49 verse 10). The New Testament instructs us to hear the voice of Jesus as the Father commands: “This is My Son, hear him”. Failure to hear will incur certain judgment as Isaiah 8:9-10 and Hebrews 2 verses 1-4 outline. Verses 11-15 encourage the remnant not to be overwhelmed by fear, but rather to trust in the living God who will deliver the faithful who revere Him. Verse 13 is alluded to by Peter who applies the words to the life and speech of the faithful pilgrims in 1 Peter 4verses 15-19. Verses 16-22 conclude Isaiah 8 by explaining the role of the disciple: to give heed to our Sovereign's Word and setting it as a seal upon our heart. Christ is our great example in this matter as John 6 verse 27; Revelation 14verses 1-5 teach us. Judah was a confused nation who were to their shame hearkening to the mystifying wizards who had no understanding in the matters that related to life and death. In listening to those whose teachings fog the minds of the children of God will lead to certain and deserved judgement. 1 Thessalonians 3 verses 1-5 Paul tells us of the sufferings that the Apostle experienced in Athens. Next Paul informs his readers of the great encouragement and comfort that Timothy brings him; and it is the news of the Thessalonians' magnificent response to the gospel. Note how the chapter finishes – read aloud verses 12-13 and pause, and ponder. Chapter 4 speaks of how pleased God and Paul are with the way that the believers are living their lives as a witness to their faith and to their trust in God and His Son. The love the Macedonian believers show to each other is evidence that they have learned what God's Word teaches. They needed to keep working until the Lord Jesus' return. These believers did, however, have a wrong view about the order of events after the Lord's return. The living believers will have no time advantage over those faithful who had fallen asleep in Christ ie died. Verses 13-18 describe what happens at Christ's return to the earth. Jesus will come with angels and the trumpet of God (1 Corinthians 15 verses 52-53). Those believers who are alive when he comes will be caught up together with those believers who have been raised from the dead, into a great cloud of witnesses (see Hebrews 12 verses 1-2). These believers will be caught into the air ie aerial, in the sense that, together with their Lord Jesus Christ, they will be the rulers (or those elevated to be in authority) over the people of the earth – ie the subjects of that coming kingdom. What a comfort to those who are now suffering persecution.

Minister Chris Bowen talks to SBS Assyrian about winning the election for the seat of McMahon, reappointment for the ministerial portfolio of Energy and Climate Change and his advocacy and respect for the Assyrian community in Australia. He says that he grew up among Assyrians in Fairfield and Smithfield and understands their plight very well and will keep supporting them. The interview is conducted in English.

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In the seventh century BC, the ancient Assyrian king Ashurbanipal created a gigantic library in his capital city – one that contained centuries of wisdom. And this vast wealth of ancient knowledge can reveal a lot about how the people of the Near East thought about their gods. Dr Selena Wisnom tells David Musgrove more about the Assyrians' religious views, including how they tried to keep gods – and other supernatural entities – happy. (Ad) Selena Wisnom is the author of The Library of Ancient Wisdom: Mesopotamia and the Making of History (Penguin, 2025). Buy it now from Waterstones: https://go.skimresources.com?id=71026X1535947&xcust=historyextra-social-histboty&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.waterstones.com%2Fbook%2Fthe-library-of-ancient-wisdom%2Fselena-wisnom%2F%2F9780241519639. The HistoryExtra podcast is produced by the team behind BBC History Magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Brian had been with the heart specialist for more than an hour. His friend remained in the waiting room, praying for wisdom and healing for his ailing friend. When Brian finally returned to the waiting room, he showed him the pile of papers he’d received. As he spread them out on a table, he discussed the various options being considered to treat his threatening condition. The two discussed the need to pray and ask God for wisdom for next steps. And then Brian said, “Whatever lies ahead, I’m in God’s hands.” King Hezekiah “spread [a letter] out before the Lord” (2 Kings 19:14). The words in the letter didn’t address a threatening medical condition but the threat of a powerful enemy—Assyria—that had seized all the fortified cities of Judah and was preparing to attack Jerusalem, its capital. Hezekiah prayed, “You alone are God over all the kingdoms of the earth. . . . Now, Lord our God, deliver us” (v.19). Soon the prophet Isaiah sent a message to Hezekiah, telling him, “The Lord . . . says: I have heard your prayer” (v. 20). And “that night” God destroyed the Assyrian army (v. 35). Whatever you face today, spread it out before—bring it to—God. As you “present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6), He hears you and is with you. You can rest in His hands as you experience His wisdom, love, and hope.

When the Assyrian army threatened Judah, Hezekiah didn't panic—he prayed. This message from 2 Kings 19 shows us how to face overwhelming challenges: spread them out before the Lord and trust in His power. Don't underestimate the enemy, but don't forget your God is greater.

Buy the Oldest Stories books!: https://a.co/d/7Wn4jhS :In this episode of Oldest Stories, we explore the complex military and political history of Urartu during its northern campaigns in the early 8th century BCE. As King Menua consolidates power and expands Biainilli influence into the Armenian Highlands, he clashes with the highland polities of Etiuni and Diauehi—two distinct yet influential groups whose stories illuminate the ethnic, linguistic, and political diversity of the Iron Age Caucasus.We examine the engineering feats of Urartian infrastructure, the fortress networks of Etiuni, and the semi-nomadic coalition of the Kartvelian-speaking Diauehi. Through archaeological evidence, Urartian inscriptions, and historical reconstruction, this episode situates the military campaigns in the broader context of ancient Near Eastern state formation, nomadic-sedentary dynamics, and the forgotten peoples of the highlands. Key themes include mountain warfare, tribal confederations, language diversity, and imperial border policy in Iron Age Anatolia and the South Caucasus.Topics include: Urartu, Biainilli, Menua, Argishti I, Etiuni, Diauehi, Armenian Highlands, Lake Sevan, Kartvelians, Iron Age warfare, highland polities, Cimmerians, Assyrian frontier strategy, fortress archaeology, and ancient tribal coalitions in Eastern Anatolia and the Caucasus.I am also doing daily history facts again, at least until I run out of time again. You can find Oldest Stories on Reels, Tiktok, and Youtube.If you like the show, consider sharing with your friends, leaving a like, subscribing, or even supporting financially:Buy the Oldest Stories books: https://a.co/d/7Wn4jhSDonate here: https://oldeststories.net/or on patreon: https://patreon.com/JamesBleckleyor on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCG2tPxnHNNvMd0VrInekaA/joinYoutube and Patreon members get access to bonus content about Egyptian culture and myths.

In this episode: Interview with Mar Emil Nona about the Pope's election; interview with writer-director Zaya Roel about his play: Echoes of Yesterday; Yousip Bet Yousip from USA talking about his nationalistic work and active role in Iran for the Assyrian cause.

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When Hezekiah faced the threat of Sennacherib and the Assyrian army, the odds were stacked against him. The enemy mocked God, tried to intimidate His people, and made trusting the Lord seem foolish. But Hezekiah chose faith over fear. He took the enemy's threats and laid them before the Lord. And God answered. If you're learning to trust God right now—in uncertainty, fear, or overwhelming pressure—this devotional will encourage you.

Sussan Ley elected the new leader of the Liberal Party; Turkiye welcomes the dissolution of the Kurdish PKK militant group; and, in sport: the Indian Premier League tournament set to resume this week after a suspension due to regional violence.

Monday, 12 May 2025   These twelve Jesus sent out and commanded them, saying: “Do not go into the way of the Gentiles, and do not enter a city of the Samaritans. Matthew 10:5   “These, the twelve, He sent – Jesus – having notified them, saying, ‘Into Gentiles' way, not you shall go. And into Samaritans' city, not you shall enter'” (CG).   In the previous verse, the list of the twelve named apostles was completed. Now, their mission to venture out to the harvest field begins with, “These, the twelve, He sent – Jesus.”   The contents until the end of this chapter can logically be divided into three sections, each ending with Jesus saying, “Assuredly, I say to you...” This occurs in verses 15, 23, & 42. It won't be until verse 11:1 that His words to the twelve will be complete.   This first section will give instructions concerning their travels through Israel during this first sending.   The second section anticipates a more permanent evangelization of Israel. This is indicated, for example, by comments such as them being “a testimony ... to the Gentiles.” Despite this note concerning the Gentiles, Jesus' words of that section still only refer to “the cities of Israel,” demonstrating the focused nature of the work.   The third section most heavily focuses on the benefits, costs, and consequences that will result from being in such an evangelistic ministry. Understanding this, He next says, “having notified them, saying, ‘Into Gentiles' way, not you shall go.”   Here is a new word, paraggelló. It signifies “to charge, or give a command that is fully authorized because it has gone through all the proper (necessary) channels” (HELPS Word Studies). In other words, Jesus is directing them, under His own authority, to take the steps necessary to meet His purposes.   As for the term “Gentile's way,” this means the places where Gentiles dwelt were to be avoided. Their ministry was to be to Israel alone. They were not to be distracted from this cause. The promises of God found from the time of Abraham on have focused on this line of people, meaning his son Isaac, and then Isaac's son Jacob.   From there, the twelve sons of Israel were considered one family under this promise. Therefore, the Messiah's work was to be directed to them first. So directed was this commission that Jesus continues with, “And into Samaritans' city, not you shall enter.”   These people, the Samarités, Samaritans, are introduced into the New Testament here. It signifies those who inhabited the region of Samaria, once the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel.   The Samaritans were partly of Jewish descent, but they were a mixture of other cultures and beliefs that had been brought into Israel after the Assyrian exile. They had their own Pentateuch, which follows the writings of Moses but which was modified to meet their own culture. That is believed to date back as far as 120 BC.   Due to their mixed status, the apostles were told to refrain from going to any such area. Only Israel was to be their focus at this time. This will only change for them after His resurrection and ascension.   Life application: The words of Jesus in this verse should clue people in concerning who Jesus' ministry was focused on during His earthly ministry. And yet, it is as common as spots on a leopard to cite verses from this chapter and elsewhere in the synoptic gospels and apply them to the people in the church age.   That is a hermeneutical error known as “taking a verse out of context.” Jesus has set the context for the ministry of the apostles. As noted, that will not change until after the resurrection when the scope of His ministry will go forth, according to Jesus' words, to “Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”   Jesus confirms this elsewhere, saying, “I was not sent except to the lost sheep of the house of Israel” (Matthew 15:24). Because of this, we are not to use Jesus' words to Israel, as recorded in the synoptic gospels, as direction for our lives and church conduct.   Rather, they are words informing us what occurred as Israel encountered their promised Messiah. Once He was rejected by them, only then did the ministry go out beyond Israel's border. Along with that, new directions were laid down for the people of the world. They are directions that have nothing to do with law observance.   Instead, they are words of grace and confidence in the hope of eternal life found in the full, final, finished, and forever work of Jesus Christ. With that complete, grace has come.   Lord God, may we remember the lesson concerning maintaining proper context when reading the Bible. In doing so, we will not be tossed about by every wind of doctrine that removes the notion of eternal security that we possess because of what Jesus has done. Help us to remember that grace is unmerited and that we should cling fast to it always. Amen.  

Playwright and director Zaya Roel spoke with SBS about the return of his impactful theatrical play, Echoes of Yesterday. After overwhelming demand from the Assyrian community, the production is being replayed due to its powerful and timely focus on the challenges of dementia. The performance will take place at Bankstown Theatre, with free admission available through online registration. Alzimas Australia, the Assyrian Medical Association, and STARRTS proudly sponsor this important cultural event.

Hezekiah leads the people to a miraculous victory over the Assyrian forces, but arrogance gets to his head.

Catholics welcome the election of a new Pope in Rome; tensions between Pakistan and India continue to escalate; in sport, The NRL confident a new team franchise in Perth will be a success.

Contents:Oliver Slewa talking about Sydney University's subsidy to Assyrian language teachers to obtain Master's degrees; ALC feature about the elections: SB Examines new episodes and a repeat of highlights of the Assyrian business awards.

In his LIVE, interactive Bible study, Fr. Mitch explores the ways in which God used the Assyrian army as an effective instrument to pass His judgment on Egypt.

Oliver Slewa from Shayna Humanitarian spoke with SBS Assyrian about a valuable opportunity for Assyrian language teachers to enrol in a two-year, full-time master's program, jointly offered by the universities of Sydney and Western Sydney. The universities support and subsidise the program, making it more accessible for prospective students.

Isaiah prophesied from around 740 to 687 B.C. during the reign of four kings: Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. Ahaz was a wicked king who locked up the doors of the temple in Jerusalem, burned his sons in fire, cut the vessels of the temple to pieces, and made Judah a vassal state of the Assyrian king Tiglath-pileser by paying him for protection (2 Kings 16:8, 10). Ahaz's son, Hezekiah, came to the throne at twenty-five years old and called for a recovery of the Passover festival in Jerusalem. That assembly of joy was so grand the like had not been seen since the days of David and Solomon (2 Chronicles 30:26). But the Assyrian threat was looming. They took Samaria in the sixth year of Hezekiah's reign. And by the fourteenth year of his rule, the Assyrian king Sennacherib had come against Judah and Jerusalem.

Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day for May 2, 2025 is: ziggurat • ZIG-uh-rat • noun A ziggurat is an ancient Mesopotamian temple consisting of a pyramidal structure built in successive stages with outside staircases and a shrine at the top. The word ziggurat is also sometimes used for a similarly shaped structure. // Ancient ziggurats were always built with a core of mud brick and an exterior covered with baked brick. They had no internal chambers and were usually square or rectangular. See the entry > Examples: "The Breuer building, the former home of the Whitney Museum on New York's Upper East Side, counts as one of the defining buildings of the [brutalist] movement. Completed in 1966, it was designed by Marcel Breuer, who envisioned the structure as an inverted ziggurat." — Alex Greenberger, Art in America, 14 Jan. 2025 Did you know? French professor of archaeology François Lenormant spent a great deal of time poring over ancient Assyrian texts. In those cuneiform inscriptions, he pieced together a long-forgotten language, now known as Akkadian, which proved valuable to our understanding of the ancient civilization. Through his studies, he became familiar with the Akkadian word for Mesopotamia's towering, stepped temples: ziqqurratu, which stepped into English as ziggurat.

Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day for May 2, 2025 is: ziggurat • ZIG-uh-rat • noun A ziggurat is an ancient Mesopotamian temple consisting of a pyramidal structure built in successive stages with outside staircases and a shrine at the top. The word ziggurat is also sometimes used for a similarly shaped structure. // Ancient ziggurats were always built with a core of mud brick and an exterior covered with baked brick. They had no internal chambers and were usually square or rectangular. See the entry > Examples: "The Breuer building, the former home of the Whitney Museum on New York's Upper East Side, counts as one of the defining buildings of the brutalist movement. Completed in 1966, it was designed by Marcel Breuer, who envisioned the structure as an inverted ziggurat." — Alex Greenberger, Art in America, 14 Jan. 2025 Did you know? French professor of archaeology François Lenormant spent a great deal of time poring over ancient Assyrian texts. In those cuneiform inscriptions, he pieced together a long-forgotten language, now known as Akkadian, which proved valuable to our understanding of the ancient civilization. Through his studies, he became familiar with the Akkadian word for Mesopotamia's towering, stepped temples: ziqqurratu, which stepped into English as ziggurat.

Episode: In this first of our "Second Temple Series," Mary Buck takes us back well before the Second Temple Period, back to the Assyrian Period. Beware, there's a pop quiz here! Learn which Second Temple site is her favorite, and much more! Host: Mary Buck is back hosting this new series!! Image Attribution: By יעקב - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=15709510 Give: Visit our Donate Page if you want to help Biblical World and OnScript continue by becoming a regular donor.

Hecklers interrupt a solemn Anzac Day service in Melbourne as diggers remembered around the country; Australian nurses in the Vietnam War honoured with a permanent memorial; and, in sport, the NRL flags a potential team in Western Australia.

In this program: Meet the candidate forum; Australia Explained: taking your child to the emergency department at your local hospital; SBS Examines: the role of religion in elections; and the fourth and final leaders' debate.

On 23 April, 2023, Shayna Humanitarian hosted a Meet the Candidates forum, bringing together seven candidates from Family First, Labor, The Greens, One Nation, independent and libertarian parties. The event offered an opportunity for these candidates to engage directly with constituents from the electorates they seek to represent, discussing their party platforms and vision for the community. Throughout the forum, candidates responded to a wide range of questions on pressing issues including housing, healthcare, migration, and refugee policy. At the conclusion of the event, Oliver Slewa, founder of Shayna Humanitarian, spoke with SBS Assyrian to share the organisation's motivation for coordinating the forum and its commitment to community engagement. This podcast has an Assyrian introduction with the remainder in English.

SCRIPTURE: 2 Kings 20:1-11SHOW NOTES: We invite you to visit our ministry website, Discover God's Truth, to find more resources to support your spiritual journey.In this current season, we have considered the prayers of people in the Bible—leaders, women, and kings. There are moments in life when we lose hope, feel overwhelmed, confront terminal illness, find ourselves surrounded by destruction, and face inevitable defeat. Where do we turn, and how do we navigate these challenging times?King Hezekiah was the king of Judah who reigned in Jerusalem and walked with God. The mighty Assyrian army threatened to destroy the city, while their king, Sennacherib, mocked the Lord God. "And he (Hezekiah) did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, according to all that David his father had done." 2 Kings 18:3During this time, King Hezekiah suffered from a terminal illness. The prophet Isaiah visited his bedchamber and declared that he would die. Upon hearing these words, Hezekiah prayed to the Lord."Then Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the Lord, saying, “Now, O Lord, please remember how I have walked before you in faithfulness and with a whole heart, and have done what is good in your sight.” And Hezekiah wept bitterly." 2 Kings 20:2-3King Hezekiah exemplifies his reliance on Yahweh. He approaches the Lord when the king of Assyria threatens Jerusalem. He cries out to the Lord when the prophet Isaiah informs him that he will die from his illness. God demonstrates His power to answer the prayers of a defeated, discouraged, and ill king who is facing certain death.This is true in our lives. This is our God! He may not choose to heal us physically, but He is more than capable, and indeed, all who trust in Him will spend eternity with Him, healed and whole. SONG: "Same God" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GO1gwohd_zs

Send us a textEver struggle with understanding Old Testament prophecies? You're not alone. In this groundbreaking episode, we unpack the historical context behind one of the Bible's most profound prophetic passages - Isaiah 52:13-53:12.The complexity of Isaiah's writings often leaves modern readers confused, but there's a fascinating story behind his prophecies that spans nearly 200 years of ancient history. We explore how Isaiah, writing around 740 BC, accurately foretold events he would never live to see - from the Assyrian conquest of Israel's Northern Kingdom to the Babylonian exile and eventual return of the Jewish people.What makes Isaiah particularly challenging? His poetic language, rich metaphors, and the way historical events unfold across centuries rather than days. We break down the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judea, explain the different approaches to exile taken by ancient empires, and unravel the mysterious imagery of Israel as a tree - chopped down, scorched, yet containing a holy seed that would someday sprout.The "suffering servant" passages of Isaiah represent some of the most significant prophetic texts in the Bible, debated by scholars and treasured by believers. Are these descriptions referring to the nation of Israel, the exiled remnant, or pointing forward to the Messiah? We set the stage for our next episode where we'll examine this profound text in detail.Whether you're a seasoned Bible student or just beginning to explore Scripture, this episode provides essential context that transforms Isaiah from a confusing collection of ancient poetry into a cohesive revelation of God's redemptive plan. Join us as we prepare to discover how ancient prophecies speak with remarkable relevance to our lives today.Support the showSupport our ministryCheck us out at purefaithliving.comContact us at purefaithliving.com/contactFollow us on twitter @purefaithlivingFollow us on Facebook at Pure Faith Podcast

In this program, you will hear Ashour Nona VP of the Assyrian Australian Association talking about Assyrian participation in Anzac Day; descendants of Assyrian Levies talking about the bravery of their fathers and grandfathers during WWII; and a special feature about the death of Pope Francis.

The Assyrian Australian Association will proudly participate in an Anzac Day commemorative service at Canley Heights RSL on Friday, 25 April 2025. Speaking with SBS Assyrian, the association's vice-president, Ashour Nona, emphasised the profound importance of Anzac Day, describing it as a sacred occasion for all communities to unite in remembrance of the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War One. Nona also paid tribute to the Assyrian soldiers who served alongside British and French forces, as well as the Assyrian Levies — a British-backed military unit established in the aftermath of the war — to safeguard stability and maintain internal security in British-occupied Mesopotamia.

The origin of Easter. History of the Australian Labor Party. How to recover from storms and floods.

A man armed with a knife shot dead by police in Melbourne; two people killed by the son of a law enforcement officer at Florida State University; and, in N-R-L, The Dragons defeat Manly as the Sea Eagles battle injury concerns.

What is the connection between the name of the Assyrian goddess Ishtar and Easter? Why do we break eggs on Easter Sunday? And how did the Easter Bunny become part of the celebration? In this exploration, we will delve into these questions and uncover the history behind the name “Easter” and the traditions that Christians around the world observe during this festive season.

Today we witness the transformation of Urartu—called Biainilli in its own time—from a fledgling mountain kingdom into a formidable Iron Age empire that would challenge Assyria itself. Following Sarduri's founding of Tushpa, his successors Ishpuini and Menua laid the military, economic, and administrative foundations of a true state.We explore the first co-regency in Urartian history, Ishpuini's early conquests and fortress-building campaigns, and Menua's monumental engineering projects—especially the Menua Canal, a 50-mile aqueduct that functioned until the 20th century. From strategic agriculture and logistics to fortress towns and tribal diplomacy, this episode uncovers how Urartu expanded rapidly despite difficult terrain and limited farmland.Today we are looking at: The rise of Ishpuini and the god Khaldi, Expansion to Lake Urmia and the Caucasus, Co-rule with Menua and innovations in governance, The engineering marvel of the Menua Canal, Tribal Centers and highland integration strategy, Comparisons with Assyrian military and economy. It will be great. I am also doing daily history facts again, at least until I run out of time again. You can find Oldest Stories on Reels, Tiktok, and Youtube.If you like the show, consider sharing with your friends, leaving a like, subscribing, or even supporting financially:Buy the Oldest Stories books: https://a.co/d/7Wn4jhSDonate here: https://oldeststories.net/or on patreon: https://patreon.com/JamesBleckleyor on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCG2tPxnHNNvMd0VrInekaA/joinYoutube and Patreon members get access to bonus content about Egyptian culture and myths.

US President Donald Trump announces 90-day global tariff pause, but raises tariffs on Chinese imports to 125 per cent; the Coalition releases further details on their gas policy; and 17-year-old Australian breaks a 57-year-old record in the 100 metres.

The Fall of Judah might not be something we think we need to know much about, but the history behind 2 Kings 24 helps us connect the dots with much of the Old Testament. So, please join us for a weighty study in this chapter and the history that surrounds it! DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    The podcast mentioned that behind the scenes, there were three nations/empires that were vying for dominance over this region. Who were those nations? How do you think their power would have impacted Judah's view of herself and her situation? 2.    The podcast explained that although Judah officially fell to Babylon in 586 BC, her fall was the final culmination of a series of events that began in 609 BC. What happened then and who was the true ruler in Judah from 609 to 605 BC?  3.    The podcast refers to the Book of Jeremiah for the backstory on King Jehoiakim. What events took place in King Jehoiakim's life in Jeremiah 22, 26 and 36? What do those events show us about King Jehoiakim's view of the Lord and His prophets? Why would this have been a problem for those who were seeking the Lord's protection? 4.    The podcast also mentions that although King Jehoiakim paid stiff fines to Egypt, Jeremiah 22 lets us know that he was raising taxes on the people of Judah for another purpose. What was that purpose and how would this have further embittered the people against him?  5.    The podcast mentions the Battle of Charchmish in 605 BC as being one of the most important extra-biblical events from this time. What happened in that battle and who was the victor? (Feel free to look it up online) How did that change the geopolitical landscape of the region?  6.    After the Battle of Charchemish, what happened to the control of the Egyptian and Assyrian controlled regions? How would that have affected Judah (considering that she was under Egyptian control at that point)? 7.    After the death of King Jehoiakim, his son Jehoiakim became king. What does he do with Babylon in verse 11? How does Nebuchadnezzar respond in verses 12-14?  8.    In verse 17, who did Nebuchadnezzar install as king? What light does Ezekiel 1:2 on how the people viewed his rule (as mentioned in the podcast)?  9.    Look up the following assessment of these final kings of Judah: 2 Kings 32:32, 2 Kings 23:37, 2 Kings 24:9, 2 Kings 24:19. What is the common thread between these kings? How do you think this thread affected the Lord's protection of His people?  10.    Look up the following assessment of these final events: 2 Kings 24:2, 2 Kings 24:3, 2 Kings 24:13, 2 Kings 24:20. Whose hand was behind these events? What does this tell us about the underlying reason for Judah's downfall? Why did it happen? How could it have been prevented?  11.    Think about the decisions of these final kings and the actions of King Hezekiah only five chapters earlier. How were these situations similar to what Hezekiah faced? How were their reactions different from Hezekiah's? What was the final outcome? What principles can we learn about how to handle difficult situations? Check out our Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

Melvyn Bragg and guests explore the history and reputation of the Persian ruler Cyrus the Great. Cyrus the Second of Persia as he was known then was born in the sixth century BCE in Persis which is now in Iran. He was the founder of the first Persian Empire, the largest empire at that point in history, spanning more than two million square miles. His story was told by the Greek historians Herodotus and Xenophon, and in the Hebrew bible he is praised for freeing the Jewish captives in Babylon. But the historical facts are intertwined with fiction.Cyrus proclaimed himself ‘king of the four corners of the world' in the famous Cyrus Cylinder, one of the most admired objects in the British Museum. It's been called by some the first bill of human rights, but that's a label which has been disputed by most scholars today.WithMateen Arghandehpour, a researcher for the Invisible East Project at Oxford University,Lindsay Allen, Senior Lecturer in Ancient Greek and Near Eastern History at King's College London,AndLynette Mitchell, Professor Emerita in Classics and Ancient History at Exeter University.Producer: Eliane GlaserReading list:Pierre Briant (trans. Peter T. Daniels), From Cyrus to Alexander: A History of the Persian Empire (Eisenbrauns, 2002)John Curtis and Nigel Tallis (eds.), Forgotten Empire: The World of Ancient Persia (The British Museum Press, 2005)Irving Finkel (ed.), The Cyrus Cylinder: The King of Persia's Proclamation from Ancient Babylon (I.B.Tauris, 2013)Lisbeth Fried, ‘Cyrus the Messiah? The Historical Background to Isaiah 45:1' (Harvard Theological Review 95, 2002) M. Kozuh, W.F. Henkelman, C.E. Jones and C. Woods (eds.), Extraction and Control: Studies in Honour of Matthew W. Stolper (Oriental Institute of the University of Chicago, 2014), especially the chapter ‘Cyrus the Great, exiles and foreign gods: A comparison of Assyrian and Persian policies in subject nations' by R. J. van der SpekLynette Mitchell, Cyrus the Great: A Biography of Kingship (Routledge, 2023)Michael Roaf, Cultural Atlas of Mesopotamia and the Ancient Near East (Facts On File, 1990)Vesta Sarkosh Curtis and Sarah Stewart (eds.), Birth of the Persian Empire (I.B.Tauris, 2005), especially the chapter ‘Cyrus the Great and the kingdom of Anshan' by D.T. PottsMatt Waters, King of the World: The Life of Cyrus the Great (Oxford University Press, 2022)In Our Time is a BBC Studios Audio production

Melvyn Bragg and guests explore the history and reputation of the Persian ruler Cyrus the Great. Cyrus the Second of Persia as he was known then was born in the sixth century BCE in Persis which is now in Iran. He was the founder of the first Persian Empire, the largest empire at that point in history, spanning more than two million square miles. His story was told by the Greek historians Herodotus and Xenophon, and in the Hebrew bible he is praised for freeing the Jewish captives in Babylon. But the historical facts are intertwined with fiction.Cyrus proclaimed himself ‘king of the four corners of the world' in the famous Cyrus Cylinder, one of the most admired objects in the British Museum. It's been called by some the first bill of human rights, but that's a label which has been disputed by most scholars today.WithMateen Arghandehpour, a researcher for the Invisible East Project at Oxford University,Lindsay Allen, Senior Lecturer in Ancient Greek and Near Eastern History at King's College London,AndLynette Mitchell, Professor Emerita in Classics and Ancient History at Exeter University.Producer: Eliane GlaserReading list:Pierre Briant (trans. Peter T. Daniels), From Cyrus to Alexander: A History of the Persian Empire (Eisenbrauns, 2002)John Curtis and Nigel Tallis (eds.), Forgotten Empire: The World of Ancient Persia (The British Museum Press, 2005)Irving Finkel (ed.), The Cyrus Cylinder: The King of Persia's Proclamation from Ancient Babylon (I.B.Tauris, 2013)Lisbeth Fried, ‘Cyrus the Messiah? The Historical Background to Isaiah 45:1' (Harvard Theological Review 95, 2002) M. Kozuh, W.F. Henkelman, C.E. Jones and C. Woods (eds.), Extraction and Control: Studies in Honour of Matthew W. Stolper (Oriental Institute of the University of Chicago, 2014), especially the chapter ‘Cyrus the Great, exiles and foreign gods: A comparison of Assyrian and Persian policies in subject nations' by R. J. van der SpekLynette Mitchell, Cyrus the Great: A Biography of Kingship (Routledge, 2023)Michael Roaf, Cultural Atlas of Mesopotamia and the Ancient Near East (Facts On File, 1990)Vesta Sarkosh Curtis and Sarah Stewart (eds.), Birth of the Persian Empire (I.B.Tauris, 2005), especially the chapter ‘Cyrus the Great and the kingdom of Anshan' by D.T. PottsMatt Waters, King of the World: The Life of Cyrus the Great (Oxford University Press, 2022)In Our Time is a BBC Studios Audio production

In this program and after the news: SBS Assyrian's 49-year celebration: the story of Romeo Hana; interviews with the Mayor of Fairfield and Nora Michael and Edwar Haydo about the Assyrian New Year; and an SBS News feature on US tariffs imposed on the world.

More than likely, you've faced desperate situations. During those times, who did you turn to? Today, we'll read the important account of Hezekiah's faith in the Lord and how the Lord miraculously delivered His people. Join us! DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    Given the context of this passage, what happened in 2 Kings 18 that would lead to Hezekiah to tearing his clothes here in 2 Kings 19:1? What did this action (tearing his clothes) indicate?  2.    Who did Hezekiah send word for in verse 2? Who was this person and where else is he mentioned in the Bible? What does Hezekiah ask of him in verses 3 &4? How does the fact that Hezekiah sought religious counsel impact the outcome of this passage?  3.    In verse 6, why does Isaiah say that Hezekiah should not be afraid? In verse 7, what does the Lord promise will be the outcome of this altercation with Sennacherib? Given the situation, especially the fact that the Northern Kingdom has already fallen to Assyria, why might this promise have seemed “too good to be true”?  4.    Per our study in 2nd Kings 18, who (or what) is this “Rabshakeh”? In verse 8, how does he accuse the Lord of deceiving the people? What was Assyria's track record in defeating other nations who also trusted in their gods?  5.    In verse 14, what did Hezekiah do? What does Hezekiah pray in verses 15-19? What depth of faith and trust do you see here? How is this depth of faith tied to Hezekiah's overall life pattern of trust and obedience?  6.    What message did the Lord have through Isaiah for Hezekiah in verse 20? What was the Lord's message for Rabshakeh in verses 21ff? What was the Lord's message for the people in verse 29ff?  7.    What happens to the Assyrian army in verse 35? What does Sennacherib have to do in verse 36? How was this clearly by the hand of the Lord?  8.    The podcast mentioned the archeological artifact called “Sennacherib's Prism.” How does “Sennacherib's Prism” help shed light on this biblical account?  9.    Based on this passage, what are some principles you can glean for trusting in the Lord, even when everything seems to be going haywire?  10.    As you reflect on this passage, how did Sennacherib and Rabshakeh respond to the Lord's work in their lives? How is this an example of a rebellious response to the clear work of God? What counsel would you give to them about how and why they ought to heed the Lord?  Check out our Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

In this episode, we explore one of the most dramatic and mysterious transformations in ancient Near Eastern history: the sudden rise of the Kingdom of Urartu—known to its own people as Biainilli—under the leadership of Sarduri I, son of Lutipri. From roughly 835 BCE, Sarduri doesn't merely shift a capital; he constructs an entire state system seemingly from the ground up on the eastern shore of Lake Van.We examine the enigmatic origins of the Bia people, Sarduri's audacious construction of the fortress city of Tushpa, the revolutionary engineering and water management systems he introduced, and the profound Assyrian influence embedded in his kingship. Drawing from sparse but powerful inscriptions, including one carved into Tushpa's very walls, we uncover a kingdom that appears almost overnight—built with massive cyclopean stones, complex administrative systems, and a new vision of political unity.Also discussed is the religious unification initiated by his successor, Ishpuini, and the powerful adoption of the warrior god Khaldi from the holy city of Ardini, a site now lost to history.Urartu's rise isn't just the birth of a kingdom—it's a case study in statecraft, innovation, and resilience at the edge of empire.Keywords: Urartu, Sarduri I, Tushpa, Lake Van, Biainilli, Ishpuini, Khaldi, Musasir, Assyrian Empire, ancient Near East, Iron Age, Armenian Highlands, archaeology, ancient engineering, lost cities, Oldest Stories podcastI am also doing daily history facts again, at least until I run out of time again. You can find Oldest Stories on Reels, Tiktok, and Youtube.If you like the show, consider sharing with your friends, leaving a like, subscribing, or even supporting financially:Buy the Oldest Stories books: https://a.co/d/7Wn4jhSDonate here: https://oldeststories.net/or on patreon: https://patreon.com/JamesBleckleyor on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCG2tPxnHNNvMd0VrInekaA/joinYoutube and Patreon members get access to bonus content about Egyptian culture and myths.

The Exodus Way E6 — By the time of the prophet Isaiah, the Assyrian Empire had already exiled the northern kingdom of Israel. Isaiah prophesied that the southern kingdom of Judah would survive Assyrian attack but that a new empire, Babylon, would one day take Judah into exile because of their injustice and idolatry. Within this world of empires, oppressors, and exiles, Isaiah prophesied about a more cosmic, permanent Exodus to come for God's people. In this episode, Jon and Tim explore the narrative beats of Exodus in Isaiah and how his prophetic images inspired the gospel writers.CHAPTERSEmpires in the Time of Isaiah (0:00-12:48)The Messiah's Ultimate Road in and Road Out in Isaiah 11 (12:48-32:19)The Highway of God in Isaiah 40 and a New Exodus in Isaiah 43 (32:19-51:05)A New Exodus of Repentance in Isaiah 58 (51:05-59:07)OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPTView this episode's official transcript.REFERENCED RESOURCESYou can view annotations for this episode—plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes—in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS.Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here.SHOW MUSIC“Haunt Me Home (feat. Catalina Bellizzi)” by Alert312“Today Feels Like Everyday” by Mama AiutoBibleProject theme song by TENTSSHOW CREDITSProduction of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer. Frank Garza and Aaron Olsen edited today's episode. Aaron Olsen and Tyler Bailey provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast.