The Ammonites, descendants of Lot through his younger daughter (Genesis 19:38), were a people frequently in conflict with the Israelites throughout the Old Testament. Their interactions with Israel are often marked by hostility and derision, with scoffing being a notable characteristic of their behavior towards God's chosen people.

Historical Context

The Ammonites occupied the region east of the Jordan River, in what is now modern-day Jordan. Their capital was Rabbah, known today as Amman. The relationship between the Israelites and the Ammonites was complex, involving periods of both conflict and uneasy coexistence. The Ammonites are first mentioned in the context of Israel's journey to the Promised Land, where they refused to offer assistance (Deuteronomy 23:3-4).

Biblical Instances of Scoffing

1. Jephthah's Conflict with Ammon: In Judges 11, the Ammonites, under King Nahash, demanded the return of lands they claimed Israel had taken. Jephthah, the judge of Israel, responded by recounting Israel's history and God's deliverance of the land to them. The Ammonites' refusal to heed Jephthah's message can be seen as an act of scoffing at both Israel's history and their God-given rights.

2. Nahash's Siege of Jabesh-gilead: In 1 Samuel 11, Nahash the Ammonite besieged Jabesh-gilead and proposed a humiliating treaty that involved gouging out the right eye of every Israelite. This act of derision was intended to bring disgrace upon all Israel, demonstrating the Ammonites' contempt for the Israelites.

3. David's Conflict with the Ammonites: In 2 Samuel 10, the Ammonites humiliated David's envoys by shaving off half their beards and cutting their garments, an act of profound disrespect and mockery. This incident led to a war between Israel and the Ammonites, further illustrating the Ammonites' scornful attitude.

4. Prophetic Denunciations: The prophets frequently denounced the Ammonites for their arrogance and mockery. In Ezekiel 25:3-7, God pronounces judgment on the Ammonites for their gloating over the destruction of the temple and the exile of the Israelites. Similarly, Amos 1:13-15 condemns their cruelty and scoffing nature.

Theological Implications

The Ammonites' scoffing is emblematic of a broader biblical theme where the enemies of God and His people often resort to mockery and derision. This behavior is not merely a social or political affront but a spiritual one, as it reflects a rejection of God's sovereignty and His covenant with Israel. The Ammonites' actions serve as a warning against pride and the dangers of mocking what is sacred.

Conclusion

Throughout the biblical narrative, the Ammonites are portrayed as adversaries who frequently resorted to scoffing and derision in their interactions with Israel. Their actions are consistently met with divine judgment, underscoring the biblical principle that God will not be mocked, and those who scorn His people ultimately face His righteous wrath.Ezekiel 25:3
And say to the Ammonites, Hear the word of the Lord GOD; Thus said the Lord GOD; Because you said, Aha, against my sanctuary, when it was profaned; and against the land of Israel, when it was desolate; and against the house of Judah, when they went into captivity;
Nave's Topical Index

Do Proverbs 26:4 and 26:5 contradict? How can both verses be true? | GotQuestions.org

What is spiritual blindness? | GotQuestions.org

Why is Jesus referred to as a man of sorrows in Isaiah 53:3? | GotQuestions.org

Scoffing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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