The Ammonites, descendants of Lot through his younger daughter (Genesis 19:38), were a frequent adversary of Israel throughout the Old Testament. Their interactions with Israel are marked by conflict and hostility, often leading to warfare. One notable instance of this enmity is when the Ammonites hired Aramean mercenaries to bolster their military efforts against Israel, as recorded in 2 Samuel 10 and 1 Chronicles 19.

Historical Context

The incident occurred during the reign of King David, a period characterized by the consolidation and expansion of Israel's territory. The Ammonites, under the leadership of their king, Hanun, sought to challenge Israel's dominance. The conflict was precipitated by a diplomatic misunderstanding. Following the death of Nahash, the king of the Ammonites, David sent envoys to express his condolences to Hanun. However, Hanun's advisors suspected espionage, leading to the humiliation of David's envoys (2 Samuel 10:1-4; 1 Chronicles 19:1-4).

The Hiring of Aramean Mercenaries

In anticipation of retaliation from Israel, the Ammonites sought to strengthen their military position by hiring Aramean mercenaries. The Arameans, also known as Syrians, were a group of Semitic peoples inhabiting the region of Aram, north of Israel. The Ammonites hired 20,000 Aramean foot soldiers from Beth-rehob and Zobah, as well as the king of Maacah with 1,000 men, and 12,000 men from Tob (2 Samuel 10:6; 1 Chronicles 19:6-7).

The Battle

David responded by sending Joab, the commander of his army, to confront the Ammonite and Aramean forces. The battle strategy involved Joab leading the best troops against the Arameans, while his brother Abishai faced the Ammonites. Joab's forces were successful in routing the Arameans, who fled before Israel (2 Samuel 10:9-13; 1 Chronicles 19:10-15). Seeing the defeat of their allies, the Ammonites also retreated.

Aftermath

The defeat of the Aramean mercenaries did not end the conflict. The Arameans regrouped and reinforced their numbers, prompting David to personally lead the Israelite army against them. The subsequent battle resulted in a decisive victory for Israel, with David killing 700 charioteers and 40,000 horsemen, and striking down Shobach, the commander of the Aramean army (2 Samuel 10:17-18; 1 Chronicles 19:17-18).

Theological Implications

The hiring of Aramean mercenaries by the Ammonites underscores the persistent opposition faced by Israel from surrounding nations. This event highlights the theme of divine providence and protection over Israel, as God granted victory to David and his forces despite the formidable alliance against them. The narrative also illustrates the consequences of pride and mistrust, as Hanun's actions led to unnecessary conflict and the eventual subjugation of the Ammonites under Israelite control.

Biblical References

· Genesis 19:38
· 2 Samuel 10:1-19
· 1 Chronicles 19:1-19

The account of the Ammonites hiring Aramean mercenaries serves as a testament to the complex geopolitical dynamics of the ancient Near East and the enduring faithfulness of God to His covenant people, Israel.