The Amorites were an ancient Semitic people frequently mentioned in the Old Testament. They are often depicted as one of the primary inhabitants of Canaan before the arrival of the Israelites. The Amorites are considered descendants of Canaan, the son of Ham, as outlined in the Table of Nations in Genesis 10:16: "the Jebusites, the Amorites, the Girgashites."

Historical Context

The Amorites are believed to have originated from the region of Mesopotamia, migrating westward into the land of Canaan. They established themselves as a dominant cultural and military force in the region, with their influence extending into parts of modern-day Syria and Iraq. The Amorites are often associated with the city-states of the ancient Near East, including Babylon, where they played a significant role in the early history of the city.

Biblical References

The Amorites are frequently mentioned in the context of the Israelite conquest of Canaan. In Genesis 15:16, God tells Abram that his descendants will return to the land of Canaan in the fourth generation, "for the iniquity of the Amorites is not yet complete." This suggests that the Amorites were known for their wickedness, which eventually led to their downfall.

In the book of Numbers, the Amorites are depicted as formidable adversaries. Numbers 21:21-25 recounts the Israelites' encounter with Sihon, king of the Amorites, who refused to allow them passage through his territory. The Israelites defeated Sihon and took possession of his land, which stretched from the Arnon to the Jabbok.

The Amorites are also mentioned in the context of the conquest of Jericho and Ai. Joshua 10:5 describes how five Amorite kings formed an alliance to attack Gibeon, a city that had made peace with Israel. Joshua led the Israelites to a decisive victory, and the Amorite kings were defeated.

Cultural and Religious Practices

The Amorites, like other Canaanite peoples, practiced polytheism and were known for their idolatrous worship. Their religious practices included the worship of deities such as Baal and Ashtoreth. The moral and religious corruption of the Amorites is frequently highlighted in the Old Testament as a justification for their displacement by the Israelites.

Legacy and Significance

The Amorites' legacy is primarily seen through their interactions with the Israelites and their role in the broader narrative of the conquest of Canaan. Their presence in the land and subsequent defeat by the Israelites is a testament to the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs. The Amorites serve as a symbol of the pagan cultures that the Israelites were commanded to overcome and avoid emulating.

The Amorites' account is a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of faithfulness to His commandments. Their history, as recorded in the Bible, underscores the themes of divine judgment and redemption that are central to the biblical narrative.Am'orites (1 Occurrence)

1 Chronicles 1:14
and the Jebusite, and the Amorite, and the Girgashite,
(See RSV)

Am'orites (1 Occurrence)
Am'orites. Amorites, Am'orites. Amos . Multi-Version Concordance Am'orites
(1 Occurrence). 1 Chronicles 1:14 and the Jebusite, and ...
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Amorites (82 Occurrences)

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Amos (12 Occurrences)

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