Siege and Destruction of Nineveh

An alliance of Medes and Babylonians surrounds the Assyrian capital in 612 b.c. Their infantry forces carry heavy shields dyed red and wear thick crimson tunics. Chariots fitted with heavy iron hardware rush wildly across the flat alluvial plains. The defenders watch from atop massive limestone walls spanning nearly 8 miles in circumference.

Nineveh sits on the eastern bank of the Tigris River in Mesopotamia. The smaller Khosr River flows directly through the center of the walled city. Attackers breach the fortified system by destroying the heavy timber river gates. Surging floodwaters quickly undermine the mud-brick foundations of the central royal palace. The immense volume of water collapses large sections of the defensive perimeter.

Invading troops pour into the compromised city to claim the remaining spoils. They empty the royal treasuries of accumulated silver and heavy gold bullion. Soldiers strip valuable textiles and bronze fixtures from the grand government halls. The once dominant Assyrian military machine is left completely hollowed out and ruined.

The capital city lies entirely empty, thoroughly pillaged, and stripped of her ancient glory. The hearts of her remaining people melt as their knees violently shake in fear.

The Almighty decrees the absolute and final end of the brutal Assyrian empire. Thick smoke rises from burning chariots scattered across the ruined city streets. The arrogant voices of her royal messengers will never be heard again. The God of Israel acts as his judgment permanently erases Nineveh from regional power.