2. Assyria’s king sent his field commander from Lachish, together with a large army, to King Hezekiah at Jerusalem. He stood at the water channel of the Upper Pool, which is on the road to the field where clothes are washed.
3. Hilkiah’s son Eliakim, who was the palace administrator, Shebna the secretary, and Asaph’s son Joah the recorder went out to them.
4. Then the field commander said to them, “Say to Hezekiah: Assyria’s Great King says this: Why do you feel so confident?
5. Do you think that empty words are the same as good strategy and the strength to fight? Who are you trusting that you now rebel against me?