Topical Encyclopedia The friendship between David, the future king of Israel, and Nahash, the king of the Ammonites, is a unique and intriguing aspect of biblical history. This relationship is briefly mentioned in the Old Testament, providing insight into the complex political and personal alliances of the time.Background Nahash was the king of the Ammonites, a people who lived east of the Jordan River. The Ammonites were often in conflict with Israel, yet Nahash's relationship with David was marked by an unusual alliance. The Bible does not provide extensive details about the origins of their friendship, but it is clear that Nahash showed kindness to David during a period of his life. Biblical References The primary reference to the friendship between David and Nahash is found in 2 Samuel 10:1-2 : "Some time later, the king of the Ammonites died and was succeeded by his son Hanun. And David said, 'I will show kindness to Hanun son of Nahash, just as his father showed kindness to me.' So David sent some of his servants to console Hanun concerning his father." This passage indicates that Nahash had previously shown kindness to David, prompting David to extend a gesture of goodwill to Nahash's son, Hanun, upon Nahash's death. The nature of Nahash's kindness is not specified, but it was significant enough for David to remember and reciprocate. Political and Personal Implications The friendship between David and Nahash is notable given the historical enmity between Israel and the Ammonites. This relationship suggests a level of diplomacy and personal respect that transcended national hostilities. It is possible that Nahash's kindness to David occurred during David's time as a fugitive, fleeing from King Saul. During this period, David sought refuge among various foreign leaders, which may have included Nahash. David's attempt to console Hanun, Nahash's son, demonstrates the importance of maintaining alliances and honoring past friendships. However, this gesture was misunderstood by Hanun and his advisors, leading to a conflict between Israel and the Ammonites, as detailed in the subsequent verses of 2 Samuel 10. Theological Insights From a theological perspective, the friendship between David and Nahash highlights the biblical theme of kindness and loyalty. David's recognition and reciprocation of Nahash's kindness reflect the biblical principle of honoring those who have shown goodwill, regardless of their background or previous enmity. This relationship also underscores the complexity of human interactions and the potential for peace and friendship even among traditional adversaries. In summary, the friendship between David and Nahash, though briefly mentioned, provides a glimpse into the intricate web of relationships in the ancient Near East. It serves as a testament to the power of kindness and the enduring impact of personal alliances in the biblical narrative. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 10:2Then said David, I will show kindness to Hanun the son of Nahash, as his father showed kindness to me. And David sent to comfort him by the hand of his servants for his father. And David's servants came into the land of the children of Ammon. Nave's Topical Index Library Persistency in Wrong Doing. Barzillai The Nations of the South-East A Description of Heart-Purity The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources What is friendship evangelism? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is true friendship according to the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about friends? | GotQuestions.org Friendship: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Friendship: Daniel and his Three Companions Friendship: David and Abiathar Friendship: David and Jonathan Friendship: General Scriptures Concerning Friendship: Job and his Three "Friends" Friendship: Luke and Theophilus Friendship: Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, With Jesus Friendship: Paul and his Nephew Friendship: Paul, Priscilla, and Aquila Friendship: Paul, Timothy, and Epaphroditus Friendship: The Marys, and Joseph of Arimathaea, for Jesus Related Terms |
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