Topical Bible: Armies: March in Ranks: Champions Fight Instead of

◄ Armies: March in Ranks: Champions Fight Instead of ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

In ancient biblical times, the organization and strategy of armies were crucial for the survival and success of a nation. The concept of armies marching in ranks is a testament to the discipline and order that characterized military forces in the biblical narrative. This structured approach to warfare is evident in various accounts throughout the Scriptures, where armies are depicted as moving in unison, following the commands of their leaders, and maintaining formation to maximize their effectiveness in battle.

One notable aspect of ancient warfare, as recorded in the Bible, is the practice of champions fighting on behalf of their respective armies. This approach often served as a means to resolve conflicts without the need for full-scale battles, thereby minimizing casualties and destruction. The most famous example of this is the encounter between David and Goliath, as described in 1 Samuel 17.

In this account, the Philistine army and the Israelite army faced each other in the Valley of Elah. The Philistines proposed a champion warfare strategy, sending forth Goliath, a giant warrior, to challenge the Israelites. Goliath's challenge was clear: "Choose a man for yourselves, and let him come down to me. If he is able to fight and kill me, we will become your servants. But if I prevail against him and kill him, you shall become our servants and serve us" (1 Samuel 17:8-9). This proposal exemplifies the practice of champions fighting instead of entire armies engaging in battle.

David, a young shepherd, accepted Goliath's challenge, trusting in the Lord's deliverance. Armed with only a sling and five smooth stones, David confronted Goliath, declaring, "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD of Hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied" (1 Samuel 17:45). David's victory over Goliath not only demonstrated his faith and courage but also underscored the belief that the outcome of battles ultimately rested in God's hands.

The practice of champions fighting instead of entire armies is also seen in other biblical narratives. For instance, in 2 Samuel 2:12-17, a contest between twelve men from the forces of Abner and twelve from the forces of Joab is described. This encounter, though resulting in a fierce battle, initially began as a contest between selected champions.

The concept of champions fighting in place of full armies highlights several key themes in the biblical text. It underscores the importance of individual valor and faith, as well as the belief in divine intervention in human affairs. Moreover, it reflects the strategic considerations of ancient warfare, where minimizing loss of life and resources was often a priority.

In summary, the biblical accounts of armies marching in ranks and champions fighting instead of full-scale battles provide insight into the military practices and spiritual convictions of ancient Israel. These narratives reveal a deep reliance on divine guidance and protection, as well as a recognition of the power of individual faith and courage in the face of overwhelming odds.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Samuel 17:8-53
And he stood and cried to the armies of Israel, and said to them, Why are you come out to set your battle in array? am not I a Philistine, and you servants to Saul? choose you a man for you, and let him come down to me.
Nave's Topical Index

2 Samuel 2:14-17
And Abner said to Joab, Let the young men now arise, and play before us. And Joab said, Let them arise.
Nave's Topical Index

2 Samuel 21:15-22
Moreover the Philistines had yet war again with Israel; and David went down, and his servants with him, and fought against the Philistines: and David waxed faint.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Iranian Conquest
... alliances, but Zoroaster broke up their ranks, and prohibited ... fatal conflict shall
be protracted, but the champions of Saoshyant ... On the march he fell in with a ...
/.../chapter ithe iranian conquest.htm

The Eighteenth Theban Dynasty --(Continued)
... indeed, little more than a military march through the ... had begun to break through
the ranks, when Amenemhabi ... of Abyssinia to those of Cilicia her armies held the ...
/.../chapter ithe eighteenth theban dynastycontinued.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... river, the river Kishon."O my soul, march on with ... temperament which had enabled them
to fight their way ... head of his own contingent.* Their armies were made ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Period iii. The Dissolution of the Imperial State Church and the ...
... and the many-eyed and many-winged ranks, which in ... became Catholics and, as a consequence,
the champions of the ... The two armies met and there was a fearful ...
/.../ayer/a source book for ancient church history/period iii the dissolution of.htm