it came to pass. Note the insertion of these historical events in the midst of prophecy, corresponding with those concerning the reign of Ahaz. Compare 2 Kings 18:13; 2 Kings 20:19, on which Isaiah is not dependent, and 2 Chronicles 32:1-33, which is not dependent on either (see App-56). This history is. proof of Isaiah's prophetic mission and gifts. History and prophecy are thus combined: for the latter is history foretold, and the former is (in this and many cases) prophecy fulfilled: the two accounts being perfectly independent.
in the fourteenth year: i.e. 628 B.C. See App-50. pp Isa 59:60. After Hezekiah's reformation (2 Chronicles 29:1 -- Isaiah 32:1). Samaria had been taken by Shalmaneser in Hezekiah's sixth year (2 Kings 18:10). The date (fourteenth year) no "error".
defenced cities. fortified cities.
and took them. See the list and number of them (forty-six) on Sennacherib's hexagonal cylinder in the British Museum. See App-67.