For centuries, Sargon II was known only from the Bible, where Isaiah 20:1-2 mentions a king named Sargon sending his general to besiege Ashdod. Yet, no evidence of this Assyrian ruler had ever been found—until 1843.
French archaeologist Paul-Emile Botta uncovered the ancient city of Dur-Sharrukin, meaning “Fortress of Sargon,” near modern-day Khorsabad, Iraq. This incredible discovery finally proved that Sargon II was a real historical king, not just a biblical name.
Sargon II’s reign marked a critical period in Assyrian history, including campaigns against Israel and its neighbors. The Bible’s reference aligns perfectly with archaeological findings, confirming the Scriptures’ accuracy once again.
The city ruins and inscriptions at Dur-Sharrukin have made Sargon II one of the best-known Assyrian kings today—and a powerful witness to the historical reliability of the Bible.
