Then Hezekiah king of Judah sent to the king of Assyria at Lachish, saying, 'I have done wrong; withdraw from me; whatever you impose on me I will bear.' The king of Assyria imposed on King Hezekiah of Judah three hundred talents of silver and thirty talents of gold — Hezekiah's initial response to Sennacherib's invasion differs radically from his rebellion against Assyrian vassalage: he offers surrender and appeals for peace. The phrase 'I have done wrong' suggests Hezekiah admits violation of vassalage obligations. His willingness to bear any imposed terms indicates desperate negotiation for Jerusalem's preservation. Sennacherib's demand represents an enormous tribute, systematically stated with precise numbers. This tribute would devastate Judea's finances.

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