Joshua 11:1

Now when Jabin king of Hazor heard about these things, he sent word to Jobab king of Madon; to the kings of Shimron and Achshaph;

Study Bible

Now when Jabin king of Hazor heard about these things
Jabin was a royal title used by the kings of Hazor, a prominent Canaanite city located in northern Israel. Hazor was a major city-state and a significant military and economic center in Canaan. The phrase "heard about these things" refers to the previous victories of Joshua and the Israelites over other Canaanite cities and kings, particularly the defeat of the southern coalition in Joshua 10. This news would have been alarming to Jabin, prompting him to take action to protect his territory. Hazor's archaeological remains indicate it was a large and fortified city, underscoring its importance and the threat perceived by Jabin.

he sent word to Jobab king of Madon
Jobab, the king of Madon, is mentioned here as part of a coalition against Israel. Madon was likely a smaller city-state in the region, though its exact location is uncertain. The sending of word indicates a call to arms, a common practice among ancient Near Eastern kings to form alliances against common enemies. This reflects the political landscape of Canaan, where city-states often banded together for mutual defense against powerful adversaries.

to the kings of Shimron and Achshaph
Shimron and Achshaph were other city-states in the northern region of Canaan. The inclusion of these kings in the coalition highlights the widespread concern among the Canaanite rulers about the advancing Israelites. The gathering of multiple kings suggests a significant military alliance, emphasizing the scale of the threat perceived by the Canaanites. This coalition mirrors other biblical accounts where multiple nations unite against a common foe, such as in Psalm 83, which speaks of a confederation against Israel. The unification of these kings against Israel can also be seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate victory of God's people over their enemies, a theme that resonates throughout the biblical narrative.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jabin, King of Hazor
Jabin is the king of Hazor, a significant Canaanite city. His name means "whom God observes," and he plays a central role in organizing a coalition against Israel.

2. Hazor
A major Canaanite city located in northern Israel. It was a powerful city-state and a strategic military location.

3. Jobab, King of Madon
Another Canaanite king who joins Jabin's coalition. Madon is less prominent in biblical history but is part of the northern alliance.

4. Shimron
A city whose king joins the coalition against Israel. It is mentioned as part of the northern confederation.

5. Achshaph
Another city-state involved in the coalition. Like Shimron, it is part of the northern alliance against Israel.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Opposition
Just as Israel faced coalitions against them, Christians today may face opposition. We should be prepared for spiritual battles and rely on God's strength.

The Importance of Leadership
Jabin's role as a leader in organizing opposition highlights the influence leaders have. Christian leaders should use their influence to unite believers in faith and purpose.

God's Sovereignty in Battle
Despite the formidable coalition, God is in control. Believers can trust in God's sovereignty over their circumstances.

Unity Among Believers
The coalition of kings against Israel serves as a reminder of the power of unity. Christians are called to unite in love and purpose to advance God's kingdom.

Faith Over Fear
Israel's history shows that faith in God leads to victory, even against overwhelming odds. Believers are encouraged to choose faith over fear in their daily lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the coalition led by Jabin reflect the challenges Christians face today in a world often opposed to biblical values?

2. In what ways can Christian leaders today learn from Jabin's leadership, both positively and negatively?

3. How does the account of Jabin and the northern coalition encourage you to trust in God's sovereignty in your own life?

4. What are some practical ways you can promote unity within your church or Christian community, in light of the coalition's unity against Israel?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a "coalition" of challenges. How did your faith in God help you overcome fear and find victory?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 4-5
The account of another Jabin, king of Hazor, and his oppression of Israel, which is ended by Deborah and Barak. This shows the recurring theme of Hazor's opposition to Israel.

Psalm 83
A psalm that speaks of a coalition of nations conspiring against Israel, similar to the coalition led by Jabin.

Deuteronomy 20:1-4
Instructions for Israel when facing enemies in battle, emphasizing reliance on God, which is relevant to the context of Joshua 11.