Topical Bible: Syria: The Israelites: Harassed by Frequent Incursions of

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Syria, known in ancient times as Aram, played a significant role in the history of Israel, often as a formidable adversary. The relationship between Israel and Syria was marked by frequent conflicts and incursions, which are documented throughout the Old Testament. These interactions were not merely political or military but also had spiritual implications for the Israelites.

Historical Context

Syria, with its capital in Damascus, was a powerful kingdom located to the northeast of Israel. The Arameans, the people of Syria, were known for their military prowess and strategic location, which allowed them to exert influence over the region. The frequent incursions by the Syrians into Israelite territory were a source of constant tension and conflict.

Biblical Accounts of Incursions

1. During the Reign of King David: The initial interactions between Israel and Syria were during the reign of King David. David's military campaigns extended Israel's borders and subdued surrounding nations, including Syria. In 2 Samuel 8:5-6 , it is recorded, "When the Arameans of Damascus came to help Hadadezer king of Zobah, David struck down twenty-two thousand men. Then he placed garrisons in Aram of Damascus, and the Arameans became subject to David and brought him tribute."

2. The Time of King Ahab: The relationship between Israel and Syria was particularly tumultuous during the reign of King Ahab. Ben-Hadad, the king of Syria, besieged Samaria, the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. In 1 Kings 20:1 , it states, "Now Ben-Hadad king of Aram gathered all his army, and there were thirty-two kings with him, along with horses and chariots. He marched up, besieged Samaria, and fought against it."

3. Elisha and the Arameans: The prophet Elisha played a significant role during the Syrian incursions. His prophetic ministry included miraculous interventions that thwarted Syrian plans. In 2 Kings 6:8-12 , the king of Aram was repeatedly frustrated by Elisha's prophetic insight, which revealed the king's military strategies to the Israelites.

4. The Siege of Samaria: One of the most severe incursions occurred during the reign of King Jehoram, when Ben-Hadad besieged Samaria, leading to a devastating famine. The account in 2 Kings 6:24-25 describes the dire situation: "Some time later, Ben-Hadad king of Aram mobilized his entire army and marched up to besiege Samaria. So there was a great famine in Samaria, and they besieged it until a donkey’s head sold for eighty shekels of silver, and a quarter cab of dove’s dung for five shekels of silver."

Spiritual and Theological Implications

The frequent incursions by Syria served as a test of Israel's faithfulness to God. The Israelites were often tempted to rely on political alliances and military strength rather than trusting in the Lord. The prophets, such as Elisha, reminded the people of Israel that their security depended on their covenant relationship with God, not on their own power or alliances with other nations.

The incursions also highlighted the sovereignty of God over the nations. Despite the military might of Syria, God's purposes for Israel were ultimately fulfilled, demonstrating His control over historical events. The prophetic narratives emphasize that God used these conflicts to call His people back to faithfulness and reliance on Him.

Conclusion

The history of Syria's incursions into Israelite territory is a testament to the complex and often adversarial relationship between the two nations. These events are recorded in the Bible not only as historical accounts but also as spiritual lessons for the people of God. Through these narratives, the sovereignty of God and the importance of faithfulness to His covenant are underscored, providing enduring lessons for believers.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Kings 5:2
And the Syrians had gone out by companies, and had brought away captive out of the land of Israel a little maid; and she waited on Naaman's wife.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Kings 6:23
And he prepared great provision for them: and when they had eaten and drunk, he sent them away, and they went to their master. So the bands of Syria came no more into the land of Israel.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... between Ajalon and Joppa, but were so harassed by the ... this victory rose the first
monarchy among the Israelites. ... at least, of their sojourn in Syria, as well ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... A number of the Israelites transferred their allegiance to ... fortune of war in Armenia
or Syria, without first ... that other horde of Aramaeans which harassed it on ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm