Topical Encyclopedia
In the ancient context of Israel, the logistical support for military campaigns was a crucial aspect of warfare. Unlike modern armies, which rely on centralized supply chains, the armies of Israel often depended on decentralized methods of provisioning, particularly through the support of soldiers' families. This practice is evident in several biblical accounts, where family members played a vital role in sustaining the troops by sending food and other necessities.
One of the most illustrative examples of this practice is found in the account of David and Goliath. In
1 Samuel 17, David is sent by his father, Jesse, to deliver provisions to his brothers who are serving in King Saul's army. The passage states: "Now Jesse said to his son David, 'Take this ephah of roasted grain and these ten loaves of bread for your brothers and hurry to their camp. Take along these ten cheeses to the commander of their unit. See how your brothers are doing and bring back some assurance from them'" (
1 Samuel 17:17-18). This account highlights the familial responsibility in ensuring that soldiers had adequate supplies during their service.
The reliance on family-supplied provisions underscores the communal and familial nature of ancient Israelite society. It reflects a system where the burden of military support was shared among the community, with families directly contributing to the welfare of their kin in the army. This method of supply was not only practical but also reinforced the bonds of kinship and mutual responsibility within the tribes of Israel.
Furthermore, this practice can be seen as an extension of the broader biblical principle of community support and care. The Israelites were often reminded of their collective identity and the importance of supporting one another, as seen in various laws and customs that emphasized charity, hospitality, and mutual aid.
In addition to the account of David, other biblical narratives suggest similar practices, where families and local communities provided for their warriors. This decentralized approach to military logistics was likely necessary due to the agrarian nature of Israelite society, where resources were managed at the family and tribal levels.
Overall, the mode of supplying the armies of Israel through food sent by their families reflects a deeply ingrained cultural practice that combined practical necessity with the values of community and familial responsibility. This method ensured that soldiers were sustained during their campaigns, while also reinforcing the social fabric of ancient Israel.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
1 Samuel 17:17And Jesse said to David his son, Take now for your brothers an ephah of this parched corn, and these ten loaves, and run to the camp of your brothers;
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
The Reaction against Egypt
... Their mode of attack was in close phalanxes, whose shock ... Mysians, Dardanians, were
the national armies of these ... for the use of merchants supplying the gangs of ...
/.../chapter iithe reaction against egypt.htm
The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... Ekron,*** and Derketo in Ascalon;**** and their mode of worship ... the head of his own
contingent.* Their armies were made ... and Mizpah; "and he judged Israel in all ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm
The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
... furnishes the flocks of the nomad tribes with food. ... and prided themselves on amply
supplying all their ... concentration, under one head, of armies hitherto owning ...
/.../chapter ithe first chaldaean empire.htm
Resources
Who was Chedorlaomer / Kedorlaomer? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the heavenly hosts? | GotQuestions.orgDoes China have a role in the end times? | GotQuestions.orgArmies: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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