The Ammonites, descendants of Lot through his younger daughter (Genesis 19:38), were a perennial adversary of Israel throughout biblical history. Their territory, located east of the Jordan River, was often a source of conflict with the Israelites. The Ammonites' involvement in aiding the Chaldeans against Judah is a significant episode that underscores their enmity towards God's chosen people.

Historical Context

The Ammonites, along with other neighboring nations, frequently opposed Israel and Judah. Their hostility is documented throughout the Old Testament, with notable conflicts during the periods of the Judges and the monarchy. The Ammonites' animosity towards Israel is rooted in territorial disputes and religious differences, as they worshiped the god Milcom (also known as Molech), which was detestable to the Israelites (1 Kings 11:5).

Alliance with the Chaldeans

During the late 7th and early 6th centuries BC, the geopolitical landscape of the Near East was dominated by the rise of the Babylonian Empire under Nebuchadnezzar II. The Kingdom of Judah, under the reign of its last kings, found itself caught between the powerful empires of Egypt and Babylon. In this turbulent period, the Ammonites seized the opportunity to align themselves with the Chaldeans (Babylonians) against Judah.

The prophet Jeremiah provides insight into this alliance. In Jeremiah 27:3, the prophet is instructed to send a message to the kings of Edom, Moab, Ammon, Tyre, and Sidon, warning them of the impending Babylonian domination. This coalition of nations, including the Ammonites, was urged to submit to Nebuchadnezzar's yoke. However, the Ammonites' cooperation with Babylon went beyond mere submission; they actively participated in the campaigns against Judah.

Prophetic Denunciations

The prophets of Israel and Judah frequently denounced the Ammonites for their hostility and treachery. Ezekiel, in particular, prophesied against the Ammonites for their rejoicing over the destruction of the Temple and the fall of Jerusalem. In Ezekiel 25:2-7 , the Lord declares judgment upon Ammon for their scorn and malice towards Judah, promising that they would be handed over to the people of the East as a spoil.

Similarly, the prophet Jeremiah pronounced judgment against the Ammonites. In Jeremiah 49:1-6 , the Lord questions the Ammonites' claim to the land of Gad and foretells their coming desolation. The prophecy highlights the Ammonites' opportunistic aggression during Judah's time of vulnerability.

Theological Implications

The Ammonites' alliance with the Chaldeans against Judah serves as a reminder of the persistent enmity between the people of God and the surrounding nations. This episode illustrates the broader biblical theme of divine justice and retribution. The Ammonites, despite their temporary success in aiding Babylon, ultimately faced divine judgment for their actions against Judah.

The biblical narrative consistently portrays the Ammonites as a people who, despite their kinship with Israel through Lot, chose to oppose God's covenant people. Their alliance with the Chaldeans is a testament to their enduring hostility and serves as a cautionary tale of the consequences of opposing God's purposes.2 Kings 24:2
And the LORD sent against him bands of the Chaldees, and bands of the Syrians, and bands of the Moabites, and bands of the children of Ammon, and sent them against Judah to destroy it, according to the word of the LORD, which he spoke by his servants the prophets.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Who was Gedaliah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What is the meaning of shibboleth in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What is the importance of Mizpah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus