Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the concept of a hostage is not frequently mentioned, but there are instances and principles that can be drawn from the Scriptures. A hostage, in ancient times, was often a person held as security for the fulfillment of an agreement or as a guarantee against aggression.Old Testament References 1. Genesis 42:24 · In the account of Joseph and his brothers, Joseph takes Simeon as a hostage to ensure that his brothers return with Benjamin. "And he turned away from them and wept. Then he returned and spoke to them. He took Simeon from them and had him bound before their eyes." This act was part of Joseph's strategy to test his brothers' integrity and to bring about reconciliation. 2. 2 Kings 14:14 · Hostages were sometimes taken as part of military conquests or political agreements. "He took all the gold and silver and all the articles found in the house of the LORD and in the treasuries of the king’s palace, as well as hostages. Then he returned to Samaria." Here, King Jehoash of Israel takes hostages from Jerusalem as part of his victory over King Amaziah of Judah. 3. 2 Chronicles 25:24 · This passage parallels the account in 2 Kings 14:14, emphasizing the practice of taking hostages during conflicts. "He took all the gold and silver and all the articles found in the house of God with Obed-edom and in the treasuries of the king’s palace, as well as hostages. Then he returned to Samaria." Principles and Reflections · Security and Assurance: The taking of hostages in biblical times was often a means to ensure compliance or to secure peace between conflicting parties. It reflects the human need for assurance and security in agreements, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture in various forms, such as covenants and oaths. · Moral and Ethical Considerations: The Bible does not explicitly condone or condemn the practice of taking hostages, but it does provide narratives that allow for reflection on the moral and ethical implications. The account of Joseph and his brothers, for example, ultimately leads to forgiveness and reconciliation, highlighting the potential for redemption even in difficult circumstances. · Divine Sovereignty and Human Actions: The instances of hostage-taking in the Bible often occur within the larger narrative of God's sovereignty and His plans for His people. Despite human actions and political maneuvers, God's purposes prevail, as seen in the account of Joseph, where what was meant for harm ultimately led to the preservation of the family of Israel. In summary, while the Bible does not provide extensive teaching on the practice of taking hostages, the instances that do appear offer insights into human nature, the complexities of relationships, and the overarching sovereignty of God in the affairs of men. Nave's Topical Index 2 Kings 14:14And he took all the gold and silver, and all the vessels that were found in the house of the LORD, and in the treasures of the king's house, and hostages, and returned to Samaria. Nave's Topical Index 2 Chronicles 25:24 Library Eusebius: Constantine. General Index. Otho, Bishop of Bamberg. The Religious Revolution Resources What is the significance of Ziklag in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Anselm of Canterbury? | GotQuestions.org Is God evil? Is the Bible evil? | GotQuestions.org Hostage: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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