In the biblical narrative, sieges were a common military strategy employed by ancient armies to conquer fortified cities. The prolonged nature of sieges often led to severe shortages of food and resources, resulting in dire circumstances for the inhabitants. One of the most harrowing consequences recorded in the Bible is the occurrence of cannibalism during these desperate times.

Cannibalism in the Siege of Samaria

One of the most striking accounts of cannibalism during a siege is found in 2 Kings 6:24-30. The Aramean army, led by King Ben-Hadad, besieged Samaria, the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. The siege caused a severe famine in the city, leading to extreme desperation among the people. The Bible records a heart-wrenching incident where two women made a pact to eat their children. When one woman reneged on the agreement, the other sought justice from King Jehoram. The king's response was one of deep anguish, as he tore his clothes in despair upon hearing the woman's plea. This account highlights the extreme conditions and moral decay that can occur when a city is under siege.

Cannibalism in the Siege of Jerusalem

Another significant instance of cannibalism during a siege is mentioned in the context of the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem. Although the Bible does not provide a detailed narrative of cannibalism during this particular siege, it is alluded to in the prophetic warnings given by Jeremiah and Ezekiel. In Lamentations 4:10, the prophet Jeremiah laments the tragic fate of Jerusalem, stating, "The hands of compassionate women have cooked their own children, who became their food in the destruction of the daughter of my people." This verse underscores the severity of the famine and the breakdown of societal norms during the Babylonian conquest.

Theological and Moral Implications

The accounts of cannibalism during sieges in the Bible serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of disobedience to God. In Deuteronomy 28, God warns the Israelites of the curses that would befall them if they turned away from His commandments. Among these curses is the chilling prediction of cannibalism during times of siege: "You will eat the fruit of your womb, the flesh of your sons and daughters the LORD your God has given you, in the siege and distress with which your enemies will afflict you" (Deuteronomy 28:53). These prophetic warnings were fulfilled during the sieges of Samaria and Jerusalem, illustrating the seriousness of covenant unfaithfulness.

Historical Context

The practice of cannibalism during sieges was not unique to the Israelites; it was a grim reality faced by many ancient civilizations. The scarcity of food and the psychological toll of prolonged sieges often drove people to commit acts that would otherwise be unthinkable. The biblical accounts provide a window into the harsh realities of ancient warfare and the extreme measures taken for survival.

Conclusion

The biblical narratives of cannibalism during sieges are sobering reminders of the devastating effects of war and the spiritual and moral decline that can accompany such crises. These accounts call readers to reflect on the importance of faithfulness to God and the dire consequences of turning away from His commandments.2 Kings 6:28,29
And the king said to her, What ails you? And she answered, This woman said to me, Give your son, that we may eat him to day, and we will eat my son to morrow.
Nave's Topical Index

What is the history of Masada? | GotQuestions.org

When and how was Israel conquered by the Assyrians? | GotQuestions.org

Who was Ben-Hadad in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Siege: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus