Topical Encyclopedia The Hittites, an ancient people frequently mentioned in the Old Testament, were one of the many groups that interacted with the Israelites throughout biblical history. Originating from Anatolia, the Hittites established a significant empire during the second millennium BC, known for its military prowess and advanced culture. By the time of King Solomon, the Hittites had become one of the various peoples who paid tribute to Israel, acknowledging the power and influence of Solomon's reign.Biblical Context The Hittites are first introduced in the Bible as one of the Canaanite tribes inhabiting the Promised Land before the arrival of the Israelites (Genesis 15:20). They are listed among the nations that God promised to drive out before the descendants of Abraham. Throughout the conquest narratives, the Hittites are mentioned as part of the indigenous population that the Israelites encountered (Exodus 3:8, Joshua 3:10). During the united monarchy under David and Solomon, the Hittites appear in a different light. By this period, the Hittite empire had declined, and the remnants of their people were integrated into the surrounding regions, including Canaan. The biblical narrative in 1 Kings 10:29 and 2 Chronicles 1:17 highlights the economic and political relationships between Solomon and the Hittites. Solomon's extensive trade network included the sale of chariots and horses to the Hittites, indicating a level of subservience and tribute. Solomon's Reign and Tribute King Solomon, renowned for his wisdom and wealth, established a vast and prosperous kingdom. His reign is marked by peace and prosperity, allowing for extensive building projects, including the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem. Solomon's influence extended beyond Israel's borders, as he formed alliances and trade agreements with neighboring nations. 1 Kings 10:29 states, "A chariot could be imported from Egypt for six hundred shekels of silver, and a horse for a hundred and fifty. Likewise, they exported them to all the kings of the Hittites and to the kings of Aram." This passage illustrates the economic relationship between Solomon and the Hittites, where the latter were recipients of Solomon's trade goods, likely as part of a tribute arrangement. The mention of the Hittites alongside the Arameans suggests their continued presence and significance in the region, albeit in a diminished capacity compared to their former empire. Cultural and Historical Significance The Hittites' payment of tribute to Solomon reflects the broader geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East during the 10th century BC. Solomon's ability to command tribute from various peoples, including the Hittites, underscores the extent of his influence and the stability of his kingdom. This period of Israelite history is characterized by diplomatic and economic expansion, facilitated by Solomon's strategic marriages and alliances. The Hittites' inclusion in the biblical narrative as tributaries to Solomon also highlights the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel. The subjugation of surrounding nations and the wealth accumulated through tribute and trade are seen as manifestations of divine favor and the realization of the covenantal blessings promised to the descendants of Abraham. Conclusion The Hittites' role in paying tribute to Solomon is a testament to the far-reaching impact of his reign and the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel. Through trade and tribute, the Hittites contributed to the prosperity and stability of Solomon's kingdom, reflecting the broader themes of divine providence and covenantal faithfulness that permeate the biblical narrative. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 9:20,21And all the people that were left of the Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites, which were not of the children of Israel, Nave's Topical Index Library The Nations of the North-East Appendices The Old Testament and Archeology Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... The Rise of the Assyrian Empire Sennacherib (705-681 BC ) Egypt The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Babylonia and Assyria Resources Miscellaneous Bible Questions (All) | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about women's rights? | GotQuestions.org Why did the Israelites have to abandon their foreign wives and children? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Hittites: Called The: Children of Heth Hittites: Called The: Sons of Heth Hittites: Descended from Canaan's Son, Heth Hittites: Descent From, Illustrative of the Degradation of the Jews Hittites: Esau Intermarries With Hittites: Intermarriages With, by Esau Hittites: Intermarriages With, by Israel After Conquest of Canaan Hittites: Intermarriages With, by Israelites After the Captivity Hittites: Intermarriages With, by Solomon Hittites: Intermarry With the Israelites Hittites: Israel Commanded to Destroy Hittites: Land of, Promised to Israel Hittites: Luz Built in the Country of Hittites: Not Entirely Destroyed by Israel Hittites: Officers From, in David's Army Hittites: One of the Seven Nations of Canaan Hittites: Part of Their Land Given to Caleb Hittites: Pay Tribute to Solomon Hittites: Remarkable Persons of Abimelech Hittites: Remarkable Persons of Ephron Hittites: Remarkable Persons of Uriah Hittites: Retain Their own Kings Hittites: Sell a Burying-Ground to Abraham Hittites: Solomon Interrmarries With Hittites: The Descendants of Heth Hittites: The Remnant of, Made Tributary in the Reign of Solomon Hittites: Their Land Given to the Israelites Related Terms |
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