Topical Encyclopedia
The Moabites were a people descended from Moab, the son of Lot and his elder daughter, as recorded in
Genesis 19:37. Throughout biblical history, the Moabites often found themselves in conflict with the Israelites. The relationship between the two nations was complex, marked by both hostility and periods of cooperation.
One notable event involving the Moabites is the account of Benaiah, a valiant warrior in the service of King David. Benaiah, the son of Jehoiada, was renowned for his bravery and military exploits. Among his many feats, he is credited with slaying two champions of Moab. This act is recorded in
2 Samuel 23:20 and
1 Chronicles 11:22, where Benaiah's valor is highlighted as part of the exploits that earned him a place among David's mighty men.
The Berean Standard Bible recounts this event in
2 Samuel 23:20: "Then Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man from Kabzeel, who had done mighty deeds, killed the two sons of Ariel of Moab. He also went down and killed a lion in the middle of a pit on a snowy day."
Benaiah's victory over the Moabite champions is significant not only for its demonstration of personal courage but also for its symbolic representation of Israel's triumph over its adversaries. The Moabites, often seen as enemies of Israel, were a persistent threat during the period of the Judges and the early monarchy. Benaiah's actions contributed to the security and stability of David's reign, showcasing the strength and favor of God upon Israel.
The Moabites, despite their frequent opposition to Israel, were also recipients of God's broader plan of redemption. The account of Ruth, a Moabitess who became the great-grandmother of King David, illustrates the inclusion of Gentiles into the lineage of the Messiah, highlighting God's grace and the eventual reconciliation of all nations through Christ.
Benaiah's defeat of the Moabite champions serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle between Israel and its neighbors, as well as the ultimate victory that God grants to His people. This narrative underscores the themes of divine providence, courage, and the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
2 Samuel 23:20And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man, of Kabzeel, who had done many acts, he slew two lion like men of Moab: he went down also and slew a lion in the middle of a pit in time of snow:
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... of the Jordan, massacred the bands of Moabites scattered over ... he began to question
his prisoners, the two chiefs: "What ... of men were they whom ye slew at Tabor ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm
Resources
What was Baal Peor in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Chemosh? | GotQuestions.orgWho were the Ammonites? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance •
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