Topical Encyclopedia The term "ambush" refers to a military tactic involving a surprise attack from a concealed position. In the biblical context, ambushes were often used by the Israelites and their enemies as a strategic maneuver in warfare. One notable instance of an ambush is recorded in the context of the battle near Zemaraim, a location mentioned in the Old Testament.Biblical Context The ambush near Zemaraim is detailed in the account of the conflict between the Kingdom of Judah, led by King Abijah, and the Kingdom of Israel, under King Jeroboam. This event is recorded in 2 Chronicles 13. The battle took place during the divided monarchy period, a time when the united kingdom of Israel had split into two separate entities: the northern kingdom (Israel) and the southern kingdom (Judah). Scriptural Account In 2 Chronicles 13:3-20, the narrative describes how Abijah, the king of Judah, went to battle against Jeroboam with an army of 400,000 valiant men, while Jeroboam countered with 800,000 chosen men. The confrontation occurred at Mount Zemaraim in the hill country of Ephraim. Abijah stood on Mount Zemaraim and addressed Jeroboam and all Israel, reminding them of the covenantal promises made to David and the legitimacy of his rule over Judah. The ambush itself is described in 2 Chronicles 13:13-14 : "Now Jeroboam had sent an ambush around to advance from the rear, so that while he was in front of Judah, the ambush was behind them. When Judah turned and discovered that the battle was both in front and behind them, they cried out to the LORD. Then the priests blew the trumpets." Divine Intervention Despite being surrounded, the men of Judah relied on their faith in God. As they cried out to the LORD and the priests sounded the trumpets, God intervened on their behalf. The narrative emphasizes the divine assistance provided to Judah, as recorded in 2 Chronicles 13:15-16 : "Then the men of Judah raised the battle cry, and when they shouted, God routed Jeroboam and all Israel before Abijah and Judah. So the Israelites fled before Judah, and God delivered them into their hands." Outcome The ambush, intended to be a strategic advantage for Jeroboam, ultimately failed due to the intervention of God. The forces of Judah, though outnumbered, achieved a significant victory. The account concludes with the death of 500,000 chosen men of Israel, marking a decisive triumph for Abijah and the Kingdom of Judah. This victory reinforced the belief in the divine favor upon the house of David and the importance of faithfulness to God's covenant. Theological Implications The ambush near Zemaraim serves as a powerful reminder of the sovereignty of God in the affairs of nations and the futility of relying solely on human strategies without seeking divine guidance. It underscores the biblical theme that God is the ultimate protector and deliverer of His people, rewarding those who remain faithful to His covenant. The narrative also highlights the importance of leadership that acknowledges and honors God's authority, as demonstrated by Abijah's reliance on divine intervention in the face of overwhelming odds. Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 13:13But Jeroboam caused an ambush to come about behind them: so they were before Judah, and the ambush was behind them. Nave's Topical Index Library The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources What does the Bible say about confidentiality? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Porcius Festus? | GotQuestions.org Who was Achan in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Ambush: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |