Topical Bible: Armies: March in Ranks: Samaria's Deliverances

◄ Armies: March in Ranks: Samaria's Deliverances ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The concept of armies marching in ranks is a recurring theme in the biblical narrative, often symbolizing order, discipline, and divine intervention. In the context of Samaria's deliverances, this theme is particularly significant, as it highlights moments when God intervened to protect and deliver His people from their enemies.

Historical Context

Samaria, the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, faced numerous military threats throughout its history. The city was often besieged by powerful enemies, including the Arameans and the Assyrians. Despite these threats, there are notable instances where divine intervention led to the deliverance of Samaria, often involving the orderly march of armies.

Biblical Instances

1. Deliverance from the Arameans: One of the most remarkable deliverances of Samaria occurred during the reign of King Jehoram. The Aramean army besieged Samaria, leading to a severe famine within the city. In 2 Kings 7, the prophet Elisha prophesied that the siege would end and food would become plentiful. The Lord caused the Aramean army to hear the sound of chariots and horses, leading them to flee in panic, leaving behind their supplies. The Israelites, upon discovering the deserted camp, marched out in ranks to plunder the Aramean tents, thus fulfilling Elisha's prophecy. The Berean Standard Bible records this event: "For the Lord had caused the Arameans to hear the sound of chariots, horses, and a great army, so that they said to one another, 'Look, the king of Israel has hired the kings of the Hittites and Egyptians to attack us!'" (2 Kings 7:6).

2. Divine Protection Against Assyria: Another significant deliverance occurred during the reign of King Hezekiah, although he ruled over Judah, the southern kingdom. The Assyrian army, led by Sennacherib, threatened both Judah and Israel. While the primary focus was on Jerusalem, the deliverance of Samaria is implied in the broader context of God's protection over His people. The angel of the Lord struck down 185,000 Assyrian soldiers in one night, demonstrating God's power to protect His people against overwhelming odds. This event is recorded in 2 Kings 19:35: "And that very night the angel of the LORD went out and struck down 185,000 men in the camp of the Assyrians. When the people got up the next morning, there were all the dead bodies!" .

Theological Significance

The deliverances of Samaria underscore the sovereignty of God over the nations and His ability to orchestrate events for the protection and preservation of His people. The imagery of armies marching in ranks serves as a metaphor for divine order and the fulfillment of God's promises. These narratives remind believers of God's faithfulness and His power to deliver, even in seemingly impossible situations.

Lessons for Believers

For contemporary believers, the accounts of Samaria's deliverances offer reassurance of God's providential care. They encourage trust in God's timing and methods, which may defy human understanding but ultimately serve His purposes. The disciplined march of armies, whether literal or metaphorical, reflects the call for believers to live in obedience and alignment with God's will, trusting in His ultimate victory over all adversities.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Kings 20:1
And Benhadad the king of Syria gathered all his host together: and there were thirty and two kings with him, and horses, and chariots; and he went up and besieged Samaria, and warred against it.
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2 Kings 7:1
Then Elisha said, Hear you the word of the LORD; Thus said the LORD, To morrow about this time shall a measure of fine flour be sold for a shekel, and two measures of barley for a shekel, in the gate of Samaria.
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