4 The Assyrian official told them that the emperor wanted to know what made King Hezekiah so confident.
5 He demanded, “Do you think that words can take the place of military skill and might? Who do you think will help you rebel against Assyria?
6 You are expecting Egypt to help you, but that would be like using a reed as a walking stick — it would break and jab your hand. That is what the king of Egypt is like when anyone relies on him.”
7 The Assyrian official went on, “Or will you tell me that you are relying on the Lord your God? It was the Lord's shrines and altars that Hezekiah destroyed when he told the people of Judah and Jerusalem to worship at one altar only.
8 I will make a bargain with you in the name of the emperor. I will give you 2,000 horses if you can find that many riders.
9 You are no match for even the lowest ranking Assyrian official, and yet you expect the Egyptians to send you chariots and cavalry.
10 Do you think I have attacked your country and destroyed it without the Lord's help? The Lord himself told me to attack it and destroy it.”