Toi, also known as Tou in some biblical translations, was the king of Hamath, a significant city-state located in the region of modern-day Syria. His reign is noted in the context of the biblical narrative during the time of King David, as recorded in the Old Testament. Toi's interactions with David are primarily documented in 2 Samuel 8:9-10 and 1 Chronicles 18:9-10.

Historical Context

Hamath was an influential city in the ancient Near East, strategically positioned along trade routes and known for its political and economic significance. During Toi's reign, the city was a prominent center in the region, and its king sought to maintain stability and peace amidst the shifting powers of neighboring kingdoms.

Biblical Account

The biblical account of Toi is brief but significant, highlighting his diplomatic relationship with King David of Israel. According to 2 Samuel 8:9-10 , "When Toi king of Hamath heard that David had defeated the entire army of Hadadezer, he sent his son Joram to King David to greet him and bless him for fighting against Hadadezer, who had been at war with Toi. Joram brought with him articles of silver and gold and bronze."

This passage indicates that Toi's relationship with Hadadezer, the king of Zobah, was adversarial. Hadadezer's defeat by David was a favorable outcome for Toi, prompting him to seek an alliance with the victorious Israelite king. By sending his son Joram with gifts, Toi not only expressed gratitude but also aimed to establish a peaceful and cooperative relationship with David.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, Toi's actions can be seen as an acknowledgment of God's favor upon David. The gifts of silver, gold, and bronze brought by Joram were subsequently dedicated by David to the Lord, as noted in 2 Samuel 8:11 : "King David dedicated these articles to the LORD, as he had done with the silver and gold from all the nations he had subdued." This dedication underscores the belief that David's victories and the resulting alliances were part of God's divine plan for Israel.

Legacy

Toi's diplomatic gesture towards David is a testament to the broader geopolitical dynamics of the time, where smaller kingdoms often sought alliances with stronger powers to ensure their survival and prosperity. His willingness to align with David reflects the recognition of David's growing influence and the desire for peaceful coexistence in a tumultuous region.

In summary, Toi, King of Hamath, is remembered in the biblical narrative as a ruler who wisely sought peace and alliance with King David, recognizing the shifting power dynamics and the hand of God in David's successes. His actions contributed to the broader narrative of David's reign and the establishment of Israel as a dominant force in the ancient Near East.2 Samuel 8:9,10
When Toi king of Hamath heard that David had smitten all the host of Hadadezer,
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 18:9,10
Now when Tou king of Hamath heard how David had smitten all the host of Hadarezer king of Zobah;
Nave's Topical Index

8583. Tou -- a king of Hamath
Tou or Toi. 8582, 8583. Tou or Toi. 8584 . a king of Hamath. Transliteration:
Tou or Toi Phonetic Spelling: (to'-oo) Short Definition: Toi. ...
/hebrew/8583.htm - 6k

How David Brought under the Philistines, and the Moabites, and the ...
... So when David had made this league of mutual assistance with Toi, [for that was
the name of the king of Hamath,] and had received the presents he sent him, he ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 5 how david brought.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... desert of Judah and his sojourn at Zilclag"The battle of Gilboa and the death of
Saul"The struggle between Ish-bosheth and David"David sole king, and the ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

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