Final answer:
Sennacherib's attempt to capture Jerusalem was thwarted by a plague striking his army, Jerusalem's offering of bribes, and possible internal religious reforms that may have strengthened the city's resolve.
Step-by-step explanation:
Several factors may have prevented Sennacherib from capturing Jerusalem. One prominent factor was a plague that struck the Assyrian army, which significantly weakened its capacity to continue the siege. This event is historically recognized as a pivotal reason for Sennacherib's failure to take the city. Another strategic factor was the city's move to offer bribes to the Assyrian forces, convincing them to abandon the siege. Jerusalem, instead of being conquered, became a satellite kingdom, submitting to Assyrian dominance but retaining its own ruler. Additionally, the religious reforms in Judah, urged by prophets who sought to avoid the fate that befell Israel, may have contributed to the social cohesion and resolve of the inhabitants to withstand the siege.