Topical Encyclopedia The concept of treaties between nations is a recurring theme in the biblical narrative, reflecting the complex political and military alliances of the ancient Near East. One notable instance of such a treaty is the alliance between the Kingdom of Judah and the Kingdom of Syria (Aram), which is mentioned in the context of the divided monarchy period.Historical Context The Kingdom of Judah, under the rule of King Asa, faced significant threats from neighboring nations, particularly the Kingdom of Israel to the north. During this period, the Kingdom of Syria, with its capital in Damascus, was a powerful regional player. The political landscape was characterized by shifting alliances and frequent conflicts, as smaller states sought to maintain their sovereignty against larger empires and neighboring adversaries. Biblical Account The treaty between Judah and Syria is primarily documented in 1 Kings 15:18-20 and 2 Chronicles 16:2-4. King Asa of Judah, seeking to fortify his kingdom against the aggression of Baasha, king of Israel, turned to Ben-Hadad I, king of Syria, for assistance. Asa sent silver and gold from the treasuries of the LORD's temple and the royal palace to Ben-Hadad, proposing a treaty to break the existing alliance between Syria and Israel. 1 Kings 15:18-20 states: "Then Asa took all the silver and gold that was left in the treasuries of the house of the LORD and the royal palace, and he entrusted it to his servants. Then King Asa sent them to Ben-Hadad son of Tabrimmon, the son of Hezion, the king of Aram, who was ruling in Damascus, saying, 'Let there be a treaty between me and you, as there was between my father and your father. See, I have sent you a gift of silver and gold. Now go and break your treaty with Baasha king of Israel, so that he will withdraw from me.'" Ben-Hadad accepted Asa's proposal, and as a result, he attacked the cities of Israel, forcing Baasha to abandon his fortifications at Ramah. This strategic move relieved the pressure on Judah and allowed Asa to strengthen his own defenses. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the treaty between Judah and Syria highlights the tension between reliance on divine providence and human political maneuvering. While Asa's actions were successful in the short term, the biblical narrative often critiques such alliances, suggesting that reliance on foreign powers can lead to spiritual compromise and a departure from trust in God. The prophets frequently warned against forming alliances with pagan nations, emphasizing that true security and prosperity come from faithfulness to the LORD. Lessons and Reflections The account of the treaty between Judah and Syria serves as a reminder of the complexities faced by the leaders of God's people in navigating political realities. It underscores the importance of seeking divine guidance and maintaining covenantal faithfulness, even amidst external threats and pressures. The narrative invites reflection on the balance between prudent political strategy and unwavering trust in God's sovereignty and provision. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 15:19There is a league between me and you, and between my father and your father: behold, I have sent to you a present of silver and gold; come and break your league with Baasha king of Israel, that he may depart from me. Nave's Topical Index Library The Nations of the North-East The Prophet Hosea. The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria Sargon of Assyria (722-705 BC ) The Career of the Antichrist Egypt Questions. In Jud??a and through Samaria - a Sketch of Samaritan History and ... The Hebrew Prophecies. Sennacherib (705-681 BC ) Resources Why do Daniel and Revelation give varying counts of 1,260, 1,290, and 1,335 days for the tribulation? | GotQuestions.orgWho were the Gibeonites? | GotQuestions.org Who was King Asa in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Treaty: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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