Topical Encyclopedia Syria-Maachah was a small Aramean kingdom located in the region of the ancient Near East, often mentioned in the context of biblical history. This kingdom is noted for its interactions with Israel during the period of the united monarchy under King David. The territory of Maachah is believed to have been situated to the northeast of the Sea of Galilee, bordering the region of Geshur.Biblical References and Historical Context The kingdom of Maachah is mentioned in several passages of the Old Testament, often in conjunction with other neighboring territories. In 1 Chronicles 19:6-7, we read about the involvement of Maachah in the conflict between the Ammonites and King David: "When the Ammonites realized they had become a stench to David, they hired a thousand talents of silver to hire chariots and horsemen from Aram Naharaim, Aram Maacah, and Zobah. So they hired thirty-two thousand chariots and the king of Maacah with his troops, who came and camped near Medeba, while the Ammonites gathered from their cities and came for battle." This passage highlights the political alliances and military strategies of the time, with Maachah joining forces with other Aramean states to oppose Israel. The king of Maachah, though not named in this passage, played a significant role in the coalition against David. Cultural and Political Significance The people of Maachah, like other Aramean groups, were known for their chariotry and cavalry, which were significant military assets in ancient warfare. The strategic location of Maachah made it a valuable ally or adversary, depending on the shifting political landscape of the region. The kingdom's interactions with Israel were not solely adversarial. In 2 Samuel 10:6, Maachah is again mentioned in the context of the Ammonite war: "When the Ammonites saw that they had become a stench to David, they sent and hired the Arameans of Beth-rehob and the Arameans of Zobah, twenty thousand foot soldiers, as well as the king of Maacah with a thousand men, and also twelve thousand men from Tob." Genealogical Connections The name Maachah also appears in genealogical records, suggesting familial ties between the Israelites and the people of Maachah. In 1 Chronicles 3:2, Maachah is mentioned as the mother of Absalom, one of King David's sons: "The third was Absalom the son of Maacah, daughter of Talmai king of Geshur." This connection indicates a marriage alliance between David and the royal family of Geshur, which was closely related to Maachah. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the interactions between Israel and Maachah reflect the broader narrative of Israel's relationship with surrounding nations. These accounts demonstrate the complexities of maintaining faithfulness to God while navigating political and military challenges. The alliances and conflicts with Maachah and other Aramean states serve as a backdrop for understanding God's providence and the unfolding of His plan for Israel. Conclusion The kingdom of Syria-Maachah, though small, played a notable role in the biblical narrative, particularly during the reign of King David. Its strategic alliances and military engagements with Israel provide insight into the geopolitical dynamics of the ancient Near East and the intricate relationships between the Israelites and their neighbors. Nave's Topical Index 1 Chronicles 19:6And when the children of Ammon saw that they had made themselves odious to David, Hanun and the children of Ammon sent a thousand talents of silver to hire them chariots and horsemen out of Mesopotamia, and out of Syriamaachah, and out of Zobah. Nave's Topical Index Resources Who is the king of the South in Daniel 11? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of Antioch in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Naaman in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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