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This oracle is dated at the time of Ahaz’s death. Although there is uncertainty regarding the exact year of his death, it was probably in the mid-720s b.c. At about the same time, Shalmaneser V, the king of Assyria, died. It was this death that occasioned the oracle. Isaiah warns the Philistines not to rejoice, because Shalmaneser V is dead (“the rod that struck you is broken”), for his successor would be even more oppressive. Indeed, Sargon II crushed the Philistine rebellion with great severity. It was during this period that Philistia sent messengers to Judah urging the nation to join the rebellion (v.32a). What was Isaiah’s word to his countrymen? Trust in the Lord who has established Zion (v.32b), and do not trust any human alliance.