Thus says

The use of the phrase "thus says" in Isaiah 36:1-37:7 reveals the actual nature of the struggle recounted there. At first blush, it seems we have a contest between the Assyrian Emperor and the comparatively weak King Hezekiah, waged through speeches, delivered on their behalf, by spokesmen. But when Isaiah says "Thus says the Lord" (Isaiah 37:7), we realize the contest is in fact between the Assyrian Emperor and Yahweh, the Lord God of Israel and Creation. With that declaration, the true nature of the struggle becomes evident, and its outcome certain.