The correct option is
B. Shalmanesar.
Detailed Explanation:
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Historical Context: The Assyrian Empire was a powerful ancient empire that existed in the Near East. It was known for its military conquests and the establishment of a vast empire that included the northern kingdom of Israel, where Samaria was located.
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The Fall of Samaria: Samaria was the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel. It fell to the Assyrians in 722 BCE. This event marked a significant moment in biblical history, as it led to the exile of the Israelites and the end of the northern kingdom.
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Shalmanesar V: Shalmanesar V was the king of Assyria who is credited with the conquest of Samaria. He reigned from 727 to 722 BCE. Historical records, including the Bible (2 Kings 17:3-6), indicate that he laid siege to Samaria and ultimately captured it, leading to the deportation of the Israelites.
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Sennacherib: While Sennacherib (who reigned later, from 705 to 681 BCE) is another well-known Assyrian king, he is not the one who took Samaria. Instead, he is famous for his campaigns against Judah and the siege of Jerusalem, which occurred after the fall of Samaria.
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Elah and Hilkiah:
- Elah was a king of Israel, but he ruled long before the fall of Samaria and had no direct involvement with the Assyrian conquest.
- Hilkiah was a high priest during the reign of King Josiah of Judah and is not associated with the Assyrian conquest of Samaria.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
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A. Elah: This option is incorrect because Elah was a king of Israel who ruled before the Assyrian conquest. He was not involved in the events surrounding the fall of Samaria.
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C. Sennacherib: While Sennacherib is a significant figure in Assyrian history, he did not conquer Samaria. His reign came after Shalmanesar V, and he is known for his military campaigns against Judah, not Israel.
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D. Hilkiah: Hilkiah was a religious leader and high priest, not a king or military leader. He played a role in the religious reforms of King Josiah but had no connection to the Assyrian conquest of Samaria.
Summary:
- The king of Assyria who took Samaria was Shalmanesar V.
- He reigned from 727 to 722 BCE and is documented in biblical and historical records for this conquest.
- Sennacherib, Elah, and Hilkiah are not associated with the fall of Samaria, making them incorrect options.
Revision Summary:
- Shalmanesar V is the Assyrian king who conquered Samaria in 722 BCE.
- The fall of Samaria led to the exile of the northern kingdom of Israel.
- Sennacherib, Elah, and Hilkiah are not related to the conquest of Samaria.
- Understanding the timeline and roles of these figures is crucial for grasping the historical context of the Assyrian Empire.