Topical Encyclopedia Benhadad, a name borne by several kings of Syria, is prominently featured in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. The accounts of Benhadad highlight the theme of misplaced trust and the consequences of wickedness.Benhadad I and Ahab The first Benhadad mentioned in the Bible is Benhadad I, who reigned during the time of King Ahab of Israel. The narrative in 1 Kings 20 describes a series of conflicts between Benhadad and Ahab. Benhadad, trusting in his military might and the support of thirty-two allied kings, besieged Samaria and demanded its surrender. His arrogance is evident in his message to Ahab: "Your silver and gold are mine, and the best of your wives and children are mine" (1 Kings 20:3). Despite his confidence, Benhadad's trust in his own strength proved to be misplaced. The Lord delivered a message to Ahab through a prophet, assuring him of victory to demonstrate that the Lord is God. Ahab's forces, though vastly outnumbered, defeated Benhadad's army twice, first in the hills and then in the plains, as recorded in 1 Kings 20:13-30. Benhadad's trust in his own power and the counsel of his advisors led to his downfall, illustrating the futility of relying on human strength against the will of God. Benhadad II and Elisha Another significant figure is Benhadad II, who reigned during the time of the prophet Elisha. His account is found in 2 Kings 6-8. Benhadad II continued the hostilities against Israel, laying siege to Samaria once more. The siege resulted in a severe famine, leading to desperate conditions within the city (2 Kings 6:24-25). In this account, Benhadad's trust in his military strategy is again shown to be futile. The Lord intervened through Elisha, who prophesied the end of the famine and the deliverance of Samaria. The Lord caused the Aramean army to hear the sound of chariots and horses, leading them to flee in panic, abandoning their camp and provisions (2 Kings 7:6-7). The Israelites plundered the camp, and the siege was lifted, fulfilling Elisha's prophecy. Benhadad's Death Benhadad II's end came through betrayal and murder. As recorded in 2 Kings 8:7-15, Benhadad fell ill and sent Hazael, one of his officials, to inquire of Elisha whether he would recover. Elisha foretold that Benhadad would die, and Hazael, seizing the opportunity for power, suffocated Benhadad and took the throne. This act of treachery underscores the theme of the wicked placing their trust in deceit and violence, ultimately leading to their own destruction. Conclusion The accounts of Benhadad in the Bible serve as a cautionary tale about the trust of the wicked. His reliance on military might, strategic alliances, and deceitful advisors ultimately led to his downfall. These narratives highlight the sovereignty of God and the futility of opposing His will, reminding believers of the importance of placing their trust in the Lord rather than in human strength or wicked schemes. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Kings 20:10And Benhadad sent to him, and said, The gods do so to me, and more also, if the dust of Samaria shall suffice for handfuls for all the people that follow me. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Meditations against Despair, or Doubting of God's Mercy. Elisha's Closing Ministry Who Can Tell? That the Employing Of, and Associating with the Malignant Party ... The Sin of Unbelief A Sermon on Isaiah xxvi. By John Knox. Discussion of the Subject of Permission The Doctrine Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners Or, a Brief Relation of ... Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners: Resources Why should I trust GotQuestions.org? | GotQuestions.orgHow can we learn to trust God like the prophet Habakkuk (Habakkuk 3:17-19)? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about trusting others? | GotQuestions.org Trust: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Trust of Saints Is in the Mercy of God Trust of Saints Is in the Word of God Trust of Saints Is: Despised by the Wicked Trust of Saints Is: Grounded on the Covenant Trust of Saints Is: Not in Carnal Weapons Trust of Saints Is: Not in the Flesh Trust of Saints Is: Not in Themselves Trust of Saints Is: Strong in the Prospect of Death Trust of Saints Is: Through Christ Trust of Saints Is: Unalterable Trust of the Wicked is in Earthly Alliances Trust of the Wicked is in Falsehood Trust of the Wicked is in Idols Trust of the Wicked is in Their own Heart Trust of the Wicked is in Their own Righteousness Trust of the Wicked is in Vanity Trust of the Wicked is in Wealth Trust of the Wicked is not in God Trust of the Wicked is Vain and Delusive Trust of the Wicked: Israelites Trust of the Wicked: Sennacherib Trust of the Wicked: Shall be Destroyed Trust of the Wicked: Shall Make Them Ashamed Trust of the Wicked--Illustrated Trust: Blessedness of Placing, in God Trust: Encouragements to Former Deliverances Trust: Encouragements to The Care of God for Us Trust: Encouragements to The Everlasting Strength of God Trust: Encouragements to The Goodness of God Trust: Encouragements to The Loving-Kindness of God Trust: Encouragements to The Rich Bounty of God Trust: God is the True Object of Trust: Leads to Being Compassed With Mercy Trust: Leads to Deliverance from Enemies Trust: Leads to Enjoyment of all Temporal and Spiritual Blessings Trust: Leads to Enjoyment of Happiness Trust: Leads to Enjoyment of Perfect Peace Trust: Leads to Fulfilment of all Holy Desires Trust: Leads to Rejoicing in God Trust: Leads to Safety in Times of Danger Trust: Saints Plead, in Prayer Trust: should be from Youth Up Trust: should be With the Whole Heart Trust: The Fear of God Leads To Trust: The Lord Knows Those Who Have Trust: To be Accompanied by Doing Good Related Terms |
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