Context: Isaiah lived in times that were tragic for Israel; and though he had no difficulty in seeing that his country was about to be overrun, he was powerless to save it. Israel had split into two nations after Solomon's reign, Israel and Judah. These and the other small nations of western Asia were no match for any really strong aggressor that might arise, and they had descended to intriguing and fighting among themselves. Meanwhile Assyria was growing steadily in strength and ambition. Israel and Judah were by this time wealthy countries and tempting prizes, and the people had become indolent and corrupt. The leaders of both countries were unable to see any danger in the Assyrians. When the kings of Israel and of the Aramaeans conspired to plunder Judah, the Judean king called on the Assyrians for help. Invasion followed immediately and as a result both Israel and Judah became Assyrian satellites, doomed to pay heavy tribute thereafter. Assyria had of course been ready for some time to extend its sphere of influence, and its leaders were probably both astonished and delighted when they were given an invitation to attack. Isaiah had seen already the evil that a few greedy and blundering rulers were inviting; now he undoubtedly foresaw that this result was only the beginning of a long and bitter oppression. In terms of reproach that betray his exasperation and his sorrow, Isaiah points out the ruin which all this madness has brought about. He tells his people this is just punishment for allowing themselves to become corrupt and for turning away from God. Now their country is desolate and their cities burnt, and their land is devoured by strangers. "Hear the word of the Lord, ye rulers of Sodom," says Isaiah with bitter sarcasm; "give ear unto the law of our God, ye people of Gomorrah." Then he quotes God's willingness to forgive if they will repent: