of the Assyrians’ movements; rather, its primary purpose was to create a foreboding mood. The geographical references contribute to this purpose, though they merely reflect how one might expect an Assyrian invasion to proceed, not necessarily how the actual invasion progressed.63 Returning to the messianic theme introduced earlier (see 9:1–7), Isaiah envisions a day when an ideal Davidic king would rule, guaranteeing justice and peace. This king is pictured as