The Amorites were a prominent group among the ancient Canaanite tribes inhabiting the land of Canaan before the arrival of the Israelites. They are frequently mentioned in the Old Testament as one of the peoples that the Israelites encountered and battled during their conquest of the Promised Land. The Amorites are often depicted as a formidable and warlike people, occupying significant territories in the hill country of Canaan.

One of the notable divine interventions against the Amorites, as recorded in the Scriptures, involves the sending of hornets to drive them out before the Israelites. This event is mentioned in several passages, emphasizing God's active role in aiding the Israelites in their conquest.

In Exodus 23:28 , God promises the Israelites, "I will send the hornet before you to drive the Hivites, Canaanites, and Hittites out of your way." Although the Amorites are not explicitly mentioned in this verse, they are often grouped with these Canaanite tribes as adversaries of Israel.

Deuteronomy 7:20 further elaborates on this divine strategy: "Moreover, the LORD your God will send the hornet against them until even the survivors hiding from you have perished." This passage underscores the completeness of God's intervention, ensuring that even those who might escape initial defeat would ultimately be overcome.

Joshua 24:12 provides a retrospective account of this divine action: "I sent the hornet ahead of you, and it drove out the two Amorite kings before you, not by your sword or bow." Here, the text highlights the miraculous nature of the victory, attributing it not to Israelite military prowess but to the direct intervention of God.

The use of hornets as a divine instrument can be understood both literally and metaphorically. Literally, it suggests a supernatural plague of hornets that caused panic and disarray among the Amorites, facilitating their defeat. Metaphorically, it symbolizes the fear and confusion instilled by God in the hearts of Israel's enemies, leading to their downfall.

The narrative of the hornets serves as a testament to God's sovereignty and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the Israelites. It illustrates the principle that the success of God's people is not solely dependent on human effort but on divine assistance and intervention. The Amorites, despite their strength and numbers, were unable to withstand the power of God working on behalf of Israel.

In summary, the sending of hornets among the Amorites is a vivid example of God's providential care and the fulfillment of His covenant promises to the descendants of Abraham. It reflects the broader biblical theme of God's active involvement in the history of His people, ensuring their victory over seemingly insurmountable obstacles.Joshua 24:12
And I sent the hornet before you, which drove them out from before you, even the two kings of the Amorites; but not with your sword, nor with your bow.
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