Although his father had allowed widespread idolatry, King Hezekiah is restoring God's law to Judah. The temple is cleansed and proper offerings are made to Yahweh. The Assyrians, however, rule the adjoining lands and demand tribute from all nations. Bloodthirsty and cruel, they crush all who oppose them. When King Hezekiah refuses to continue payment to these ungodly people, he calls their wrath down on Judah. Facing almost certain destruction, Hezekiah will receive help from an unlikely source.