Topical Bible: Inhospitableness: Ammonites and Moabites

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◄ Inhospitableness: Ammonites and Moabites ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The inhospitableness of the Ammonites and Moabites is a significant theme in the Old Testament, reflecting their historical and spiritual opposition to the Israelites. This inhospitableness is notably highlighted in the context of Israel's journey from Egypt to the Promised Land.

Biblical Background

The Ammonites and Moabites were descendants of Lot, Abraham's nephew, through his daughters (Genesis 19:36-38). Despite this familial connection, their relationship with the Israelites was often marked by hostility and conflict. The inhospitable actions of these nations are particularly condemned in the context of Israel's wilderness wanderings.

Deuteronomy 23:3-4

The Book of Deuteronomy explicitly addresses the inhospitableness of the Ammonites and Moabites. Deuteronomy 23:3-4 states: "No Ammonite or Moabite or any of their descendants may enter the assembly of the LORD, even down to the tenth generation. For they did not meet you with bread and water on your way out of Egypt, and they hired Balaam son of Beor from Pethor in Aram-naharaim to curse you."

This passage underscores two primary grievances: the refusal to provide basic hospitality to the Israelites during their exodus and the hiring of Balaam to curse them. The lack of hospitality was a serious breach of ancient Near Eastern customs, where providing for travelers was a fundamental expectation.

Numbers 22-24

The narrative of Balaam, found in Numbers 22-24, further illustrates the Moabites' antagonism. Balak, the king of Moab, sought to curse Israel through Balaam, a prophet. Despite Balak's intentions, God intervened, turning the intended curses into blessings. This episode highlights the spiritual opposition of the Moabites against God's chosen people.

Judges 11:12-28

The Ammonites' inhospitableness is also evident in their conflict with Israel during the time of the judges. In Judges 11:12-28, Jephthah, a judge of Israel, recounts the history of Ammonite aggression and their unjust claims to Israelite territory. The Ammonites' refusal to acknowledge Israel's rights and their aggressive stance further exemplify their inhospitable nature.

Nehemiah 13:1-2

The inhospitableness of the Ammonites and Moabites is reiterated in the post-exilic period. Nehemiah 13:1-2 states: "On that day the Book of Moses was read aloud in the hearing of the people, and there it was found written that no Ammonite or Moabite should ever enter the assembly of God, because they had not met the Israelites with food and water but had hired Balaam to curse them. Yet our God turned the curse into a blessing."

This passage reflects the enduring memory of their inhospitable actions and the continued exclusion of these nations from the assembly of the LORD, emphasizing the lasting impact of their hostility.

Theological Implications

The inhospitableness of the Ammonites and Moabites serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of opposing God's people and failing to uphold the values of hospitality and kindness. Their actions are contrasted with the expected conduct of those who align themselves with God's covenant community. The biblical narrative consistently upholds the importance of hospitality as a reflection of God's character and a requirement for His people.

Nave's Topical Index

Deuteronomy 23:3-6
An Ammonite or Moabite shall not enter into the congregation of the LORD; even to their tenth generation shall they not enter into the congregation of the LORD for ever:
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