Dread of Israel
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The term "Dread of Israel" refers to the fear and awe that the nations surrounding Israel experienced due to the evident presence and power of God with the Israelites. This concept is rooted in the biblical narrative, where God's intervention on behalf of His chosen people often led to a profound fear among their enemies.

Biblical Context

The "Dread of Israel" is first notably mentioned in the context of the patriarchs. In Genesis 35:5 , as Jacob and his family journeyed, "a terror from God fell upon the cities around them, so that they did not pursue Jacob’s sons." This divine protection ensured the safety of Jacob's family, highlighting God's covenantal faithfulness and the fear it instilled in others.

During the Exodus, the dread of Israel became more pronounced. As the Israelites left Egypt, the surrounding nations heard of the miraculous events, such as the parting of the Red Sea and the defeat of Pharaoh's army. In Exodus 15:14-16 , the Song of Moses recounts, "The peoples will hear and tremble; anguish will grip the dwellers of Philistia. Then the chiefs of Edom will be dismayed; trembling will seize the leaders of Moab; the dwellers of Canaan will melt away; terror and dread will fall upon them. By the greatness of Your arm they will be as still as a stone, until Your people pass by, O LORD, until the people You have bought pass by."

Conquest of Canaan

The dread of Israel continued as the Israelites entered the Promised Land. In Joshua 2:9-11 , Rahab, a resident of Jericho, confesses to the Israelite spies, "I know that the LORD has given you this land and that the dread of you has fallen upon us, and all who dwell in the land are melting in fear of you. For we have heard how the LORD dried up the waters of the Red Sea before you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to Sihon and Og, the two kings of the Amorites across the Jordan, whom you completely destroyed. When we heard this, our hearts melted and everyone’s courage failed because of you, for the LORD your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below."

Divine Strategy

The dread of Israel was not merely a natural fear but a strategic element orchestrated by God to fulfill His promises to the patriarchs. In Deuteronomy 2:25 , God declares, "This very day I will begin to put the dread and fear of you upon all the nations under heaven. They will hear the report of you, and they will tremble and be in anguish because of you."

Theological Implications

Theologically, the dread of Israel underscores the sovereignty and power of God in fulfilling His covenant promises. It serves as a testament to God's ability to protect and provide for His people, ensuring their success against overwhelming odds. This divine dread also acts as a means of demonstrating God's glory and supremacy to the nations, inviting them to recognize His authority.

Historical Impact

Historically, the dread of Israel had significant implications for the geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East. It facilitated the Israelites' conquest and settlement in Canaan, as many cities and peoples were demoralized or chose to make peace rather than face the God of Israel's wrath. This fear often led to alliances and treaties, as seen in the case of the Gibeonites (Joshua 9).

In summary, the "Dread of Israel" is a multifaceted concept that highlights God's protective power, the fulfillment of His promises, and the impact of His presence among His people, causing surrounding nations to fear and respect the God of Israel.
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