Topical Bible: Moabites: Miraculously Deceived by the Colour of the Water

◄ Moabites: Miraculously Deceived by the Colour of the Water ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The Moabites, descendants of Lot through his elder daughter, were a frequent adversary of Israel throughout biblical history. One notable event involving the Moabites is their miraculous deception by the color of the water, as recorded in 2 Kings 3. This incident highlights God's intervention on behalf of Israel and His ability to confound their enemies.

Historical Context

During the reign of King Jehoram of Israel, the Moabites, led by King Mesha, rebelled against Israelite control. Mesha had been a vassal to Israel, paying tribute in the form of lambs and wool. With the death of Ahab, Mesha saw an opportunity to assert Moab's independence. In response, Jehoram allied with Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, and the king of Edom to suppress the Moabite rebellion.

The March to Moab

The allied forces took a circuitous route through the Desert of Edom, which led to a dire shortage of water for the troops and their animals. In desperation, Jehoram sought the counsel of the prophet Elisha. Elisha, after initially rebuking Jehoram, agreed to seek the Lord's guidance due to the presence of Jehoshaphat, a king who sought to follow God.

Divine Intervention

Elisha prophesied that the valley would be filled with water without the presence of rain or wind, a miraculous provision from God. He declared, "This is an easy thing in the eyes of the LORD; He will also deliver Moab into your hands" (2 Kings 3:18). The next morning, water flowed from the direction of Edom, filling the valley.

The Deception

As the Moabites prepared for battle, they observed the water in the early morning light. The sun's reflection on the water appeared red, resembling blood. The Moabites concluded that the allied kings had turned against each other, resulting in a bloody conflict. Believing they were witnessing the aftermath of a battle, they rushed to plunder the camp of Israel.

The Outcome

The Moabites' misinterpretation led to their downfall. As they approached the Israelite camp, they were met with a prepared and organized army. The Israelites rose up and struck down the Moabites, pursuing them into their own territory and inflicting significant damage. The Moabite cities were destroyed, their fields ruined, and their wells stopped up, fulfilling Elisha's prophecy.

Theological Significance

This event underscores the sovereignty and power of God in delivering His people. The miraculous provision of water and the subsequent deception of the Moabites demonstrate God's ability to use natural phenomena to achieve His purposes. It also serves as a reminder of the futility of opposing God's chosen people and the ultimate triumph of His will.

The Moabites' deception by the color of the water is a testament to the divine protection and guidance afforded to Israel, reinforcing the biblical theme of God's faithfulness to His covenant people.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Kings 3:21-24
And when all the Moabites heard that the kings were come up to fight against them, they gathered all that were able to put on armor, and upward, and stood in the border.
Torrey's Topical Textbook