Assyrian captivity

The Assyrian captivity refers to the period in the 8th century BCE when the Assyrian Empire conquered the Kingdom of Israel. In 722 BCE, the Assyrians defeated Israel and forcibly relocated many of its inhabitants, scattering them throughout the empire. This mass deportation effectively ended the northern kingdom of Israel and is significant in Jewish history, as it led to the loss of identity among the displaced Israelites, contributing to what is known as the "Lost Tribes of Israel." The Assyrian captivity is a key event that highlights the complexities of ancient power struggles and their lasting impacts on culture and identity.