Topical Bible: Hospitality: Pharaoh to Hadad

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Hospitality in the biblical context is a significant theme that reflects the values of kindness, generosity, and the provision of refuge. This entry explores the concept of hospitality as demonstrated by Pharaoh towards Hadad, as recorded in the Old Testament.

Pharaoh's Hospitality to Hadad

The account of Pharaoh's hospitality to Hadad is found in 1 Kings 11:14-22. Hadad was an Edomite prince who fled to Egypt after King David's military campaigns against Edom. The narrative highlights the political and personal dimensions of hospitality in the ancient Near East.

1 Kings 11:14-22 describes how the LORD raised up Hadad as an adversary against Solomon. Hadad, still a child, escaped to Egypt with some of his father's servants after Joab, the commander of David's army, had struck down every male in Edom. Upon reaching Egypt, Hadad found favor in the eyes of Pharaoh, who provided him with a house, sustenance, and land. This act of hospitality was not merely a gesture of kindness but also a strategic political move, as Pharaoh saw an opportunity to harbor a potential ally against Israel.

Pharaoh's generosity extended beyond mere provision. He gave Hadad a place within the royal family by granting him the sister of his own wife, Queen Tahpenes, in marriage. This alliance through marriage further solidified Hadad's position and influence in Egypt. The text notes that Hadad and Tahpenes had a son named Genubath, who was raised in Pharaoh's household among the royal children, indicating the depth of integration and acceptance Hadad experienced.

Cultural and Theological Implications

The hospitality shown by Pharaoh to Hadad underscores several cultural and theological themes prevalent in the biblical narrative. In the ancient world, offering hospitality to foreigners, especially those of noble birth, was a demonstration of power, wealth, and political acumen. By welcoming Hadad, Pharaoh not only fulfilled the cultural expectation of providing refuge but also positioned himself as a benefactor and protector, potentially gaining a future ally.

From a theological perspective, the account of Hadad's refuge in Egypt serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the unfolding of His divine plan. Despite Hadad's status as an adversary to Solomon, his survival and prosperity in Egypt were part of the larger narrative of God's dealings with Israel and its neighbors. The LORD's orchestration of events, including the rise of adversaries like Hadad, was a means of disciplining and guiding His chosen people.

Conclusion

The account of Pharaoh's hospitality to Hadad illustrates the complex interplay of cultural norms, political strategy, and divine providence. It highlights the importance of hospitality as a virtue and a tool for diplomacy in the biblical world, while also serving as a testament to God's overarching plan in the history of Israel and its surrounding nations.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Kings 11:17,22
That Hadad fled, he and certain Edomites of his father's servants with him, to go into Egypt; Hadad being yet a little child.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Nations of the South-East
... the sister-in-law of the Pharaoh, returned to ... The supreme Baal was the Sun-god Hadad;
another god ... Then they received with hospitality a political fugitive from ...
/.../sayce/early israel and the surrounding nations/chapter iii the nations of.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... Pharaoh at this time exercised no authority over this region, and they were, therefore,
no longer in fear of opposition from his troops; the latter had been ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
... Finally, the only one of their gods known to us, Hadad, was a Semite deity ... When,
however, the "lords of the sands" grew too insolent, the Pharaoh sent a column ...
/.../chapter ithe first chaldaean empire.htm