The Amorites were an ancient Semitic people mentioned frequently in the Old Testament. They are often depicted as one of the primary inhabitants of Canaan before the arrival of the Israelites. The Amorites are first mentioned in Genesis 10:16 as descendants of Canaan, the son of Ham. They are described as a powerful and numerous people, often associated with the hill country of Canaan.

In Genesis 14:7, the Amorites are mentioned in the context of the war of the kings, where they are defeated by Chedorlaomer and his allies. The Amorites are also noted for their interactions with the patriarchs. In Genesis 15:16, God tells Abraham that his descendants will return to the land of Canaan in the fourth generation, for "the iniquity of the Amorites is not yet complete."

The Amorites are frequently listed among the nations that the Israelites are commanded to drive out of the Promised Land. In Deuteronomy 7:1, they are included in the list of seven nations greater and mightier than the Israelites. The conquest of the Amorite kings Sihon and Og is a significant event in the Israelite journey to the Promised Land, as recorded in Numbers 21:21-35 and Deuteronomy 2:24-3:11. These victories are often cited as evidence of God's faithfulness and power.

The Amorites are also mentioned in the context of Israel's disobedience. In Judges 1:34-36, the Amorites force the tribe of Dan into the hill country, demonstrating the incomplete conquest of the land. The Amorites' influence and presence in the region persisted, as seen in the accounts of the monarchy. King Solomon conscripted Amorites for labor, as noted in 1 Kings 9:20-21.

Hittite

The Hittites were another significant group mentioned in the Old Testament, often associated with the land of Canaan. They are first introduced in Genesis 10:15 as descendants of Heth, a son of Canaan. The Hittites are frequently mentioned alongside other Canaanite nations that the Israelites encountered.

One of the most notable Hittites in the Bible is Ephron, from whom Abraham purchased the cave of Machpelah as a burial site for Sarah, as recorded in Genesis 23. This transaction is significant as it represents the first piece of the Promised Land owned by the patriarchs.

The Hittites are also mentioned in the context of the Israelite conquest of Canaan. In Deuteronomy 7:1, they are listed among the nations that the Israelites are to dispossess. The Hittites' presence in the land is a recurring theme, as seen in the accounts of the conquest and settlement in the books of Joshua and Judges.

During the period of the monarchy, the Hittites are mentioned in various contexts. King David's interaction with Uriah the Hittite, one of his mighty men, is a well-known account that highlights the integration of Hittites into Israelite society (2 Samuel 11). Solomon's marriage alliances with Hittite women are noted in 1 Kings 11:1, indicating the continued presence and influence of the Hittites in the region.

The Hittites are also referenced in the prophetic literature, where they symbolize the foreign nations that surround Israel. In Ezekiel 16:3, Jerusalem's origins are described metaphorically as being of Amorite and Hittite descent, emphasizing the city's idolatrous practices and need for repentance.

Overall, the Amorites and Hittites are depicted as significant players in the biblical narrative, representing both the challenges and opportunities faced by the Israelites as they sought to establish themselves in the land promised to their forefathers.