The term "Coalition of Kings" refers to various alliances of monarchs mentioned in the Bible, often formed for military or political purposes. These coalitions are significant in biblical narratives as they frequently illustrate the dynamics of power, conflict, and divine intervention in the ancient Near East.

1. The Coalition Against Chedorlaomer (Genesis 14):

One of the earliest mentions of a coalition of kings is found in Genesis 14, where a group of kings rebelled against Chedorlaomer, king of Elam. This coalition included the kings of Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, Zeboiim, and Bela (Zoar). The rebellion was a response to twelve years of subjugation under Chedorlaomer and his allies. The conflict culminated in the Battle of the Valley of Siddim, where Chedorlaomer's forces initially triumphed. However, Abram (later Abraham) intervened to rescue his nephew Lot, who had been taken captive. This narrative highlights God's providence and Abram's emerging role as a leader and protector of his family.

2. The Southern Coalition Against Gibeon (Joshua 10):

In the book of Joshua, a coalition of five Amorite kings formed against the city of Gibeon after it made peace with Israel. The coalition included the kings of Jerusalem, Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachish, and Eglon. Joshua 10:5 states, "So the five kings of the Amorites—the kings of Jerusalem, Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachish, and Eglon—joined forces, advanced with all their armies, besieged Gibeon, and fought against it." In response, Joshua led the Israelites to a miraculous victory, aided by divine intervention, including the famous event where the sun stood still (Joshua 10:12-14). This coalition and its defeat underscore the theme of God's support for Israel in fulfilling His promises.

3. The Northern Coalition Against Israel (Joshua 11):

Another significant coalition is described in Joshua 11, where Jabin, king of Hazor, formed an alliance with several northern kings to oppose Israel. This coalition included kings from the northern hill country, the Arabah south of Kinnereth, the western foothills, and Naphoth Dor. Joshua 11:4 records, "They came out with all their armies, a multitude as numerous as the sand on the seashore, along with a great many horses and chariots." Despite the formidable size of this coalition, Joshua and the Israelites, with God's guidance, achieved a decisive victory. This event further demonstrates God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His covenant with Israel.

4. The Coalition Against Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 20):

In 2 Chronicles 20, a coalition of Moabites, Ammonites, and some Meunites came against King Jehoshaphat of Judah. Alarmed by the threat, Jehoshaphat sought the Lord in prayer and proclaimed a fast throughout Judah. The Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel, who assured the people of God's deliverance. 2 Chronicles 20:15 states, "Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's." The coalition was ultimately defeated as God set ambushes against them, leading to their self-destruction. This narrative emphasizes the power of faith and reliance on God in times of crisis.

5. The Coalition Against Israel and Judah (2 Kings 16, Isaiah 7):

During the reign of King Ahaz of Judah, a coalition formed between Rezin, king of Aram, and Pekah, son of Remaliah, king of Israel, to attack Jerusalem. This coalition is often referred to as the Syro-Ephraimite War. Isaiah 7:1 notes, "In the days of Ahaz son of Jotham, the son of Uzziah, king of Judah, Rezin king of Aram and Pekah son of Remaliah king of Israel marched up to fight against Jerusalem, but they could not overpower it." The prophet Isaiah assured Ahaz of God's protection, and the coalition ultimately failed. This event highlights the theme of divine assurance and the importance of trusting in God's promises.

Throughout the biblical narrative, coalitions of kings serve as a backdrop for demonstrating God's power, faithfulness, and the unfolding of His divine plan. These alliances, often formed with the intent of opposing God's people, ultimately reveal the futility of human schemes against the divine will.