Topical Encyclopedia
In the biblical context, the concept of armies marching in ranks is often associated with order, discipline, and the might of a nation or group. However, the Bible also records instances where armies, despite their organized ranks, experience panic and confusion, often as a result of divine intervention or overwhelming circumstances.
Divine Intervention Leading to PanicOne of the most notable examples of panic within the ranks of an army is found in the account of Gideon. In
Judges 7, God instructs Gideon to reduce his army to a mere 300 men to face the Midianites. The Lord then causes confusion among the Midianite army: "When Gideon’s three hundred men blew their trumpets, the LORD set the swords of each man against his companion throughout the camp, and the army fled to Beth-shittah toward Zererah as far as the border of Abel-meholah near Tabbath" (
Judges 7:22). This divine-induced panic led to a significant victory for Israel, demonstrating God's power to save irrespective of human strength or numbers.
Panic as a Result of Overwhelming CircumstancesIn
1 Samuel 14, Jonathan and his armor-bearer attack a Philistine outpost, leading to panic among the Philistine ranks. The Bible describes the scene: "Then panic struck the whole Philistine army—the camp and the field, and those in the outposts and raiding parties—and the ground shook. It was a panic sent by God" (
1 Samuel 14:15). This panic was so severe that it led to the Philistines turning on each other, further illustrating how God can use fear and confusion to deliver His people.
Prophetic Imagery of PanicThe prophets also speak of panic among armies as a sign of God's judgment. In
Isaiah 13, a prophecy against Babylon describes the terror that will seize the hearts of warriors: "Therefore all hands will fall limp, and every man’s heart will melt. Terror, pain, and anguish will seize them; they will writhe like a woman in labor. They will look aghast at one another, their faces aflame" (
Isaiah 13:7-8). This imagery underscores the futility of human strength against the divine will.
Lessons from Panic in ArmiesThe biblical accounts of panic within armies serve as a reminder of the sovereignty of God over the affairs of nations. Despite the might and organization of human forces, the ultimate outcome of battles is determined by God's will. These narratives encourage believers to trust in God's power and providence, rather than relying solely on human strength or strategy.
In summary, the Bible presents the phenomenon of panic in armies as a tool used by God to achieve His purposes, demonstrating His control over both the natural and supernatural realms.
Nave's Topical Index
Isaiah 30:17One thousand shall flee at the rebuke of one; at the rebuke of five shall you flee: till you be left as a beacon on the top of a mountain, and as an ensign on an hill.
Nave's Topical Index
Library
The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... them away,"that ancient river, the river Kishon."O my soul, march on with ... took their
places each at the head of his own contingent.* Their armies were made ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm
Resources
What does the Bible mean when it calls God the “LORD of hosts”? | GotQuestions.orgWho was David in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgSurviving the end times - what do I need to know? | GotQuestions.orgArmies: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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