Topical Bible: Alliances: Moabites, Amalekites, and Ammonites

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Topical Encyclopedia

The Moabites, Amalekites, and Ammonites are three distinct groups frequently mentioned in the Old Testament, often in the context of their interactions and conflicts with the Israelites. These groups, at various times, formed alliances against Israel, driven by political, territorial, and religious motivations.

Moabites

The Moabites were descendants of Moab, the son of Lot by his elder daughter (Genesis 19:37). They inhabited the region east of the Dead Sea. The Moabites are often depicted as adversaries of Israel, although there were periods of peace and cooperation. One notable alliance involving the Moabites is recorded in Judges 3:12-30, where Eglon, the king of Moab, allied with the Ammonites and Amalekites to oppress Israel. This coalition was successful for a time, as they captured the city of Jericho, known as the "City of Palms" (Judges 3:13). However, their dominance was eventually broken by Ehud, a judge of Israel, who assassinated Eglon and led a successful revolt.

Amalekites

The Amalekites were a nomadic tribe, traditionally considered descendants of Esau's grandson Amalek (Genesis 36:12). They are frequently portrayed as persistent enemies of Israel. The Amalekites' hostility is first recorded during the Exodus, when they attacked the Israelites at Rephidim (Exodus 17:8-16). The Lord declared perpetual enmity between Israel and Amalek, commanding their eventual destruction. The alliance with the Moabites and Ammonites in Judges 3 is one of the few instances where the Amalekites are noted to have joined forces with other nations against Israel. Their persistent aggression is further highlighted in 1 Samuel 15, where King Saul is commanded to destroy them completely, a task he fails to fully execute.

Ammonites

The Ammonites were descendants of Ben-Ammi, the son of Lot by his younger daughter (Genesis 19:38). They occupied the territory east of the Jordan River. Like the Moabites, the Ammonites had a complex relationship with Israel, marked by both conflict and periods of peace. The alliance with the Moabites and Amalekites in Judges 3 is a significant example of their cooperation against a common enemy. The Ammonites are also noted for their later conflicts with Israel, such as during the reign of King Saul (1 Samuel 11) and King David (2 Samuel 10).

Biblical Significance

The alliances between the Moabites, Amalekites, and Ammonites against Israel highlight the geopolitical dynamics of the ancient Near East. These coalitions were often driven by a desire to resist Israelite expansion and to assert control over strategic territories. From a theological perspective, these alliances serve as a backdrop for demonstrating God's sovereignty and faithfulness to Israel. Despite the formidable opposition, God repeatedly delivered Israel from their enemies, as seen in the deliverance through judges like Ehud and the eventual subjugation of these nations under Israelite kings. The narratives involving these alliances underscore the recurring theme of divine intervention and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.

Nave's Topical Index

Judges 3:12,13
And the children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the LORD: and the LORD strengthened Eglon the king of Moab against Israel, because they had done evil in the sight of the LORD.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Historical Books.
... the endless details of court intrigues, of alliances and wars ... years of rest after
the oppression of the Moabites. ... sin in the matter of the Amalekites Saul is ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xx the historical books.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... Bedawins from the East, sheikhs of the Midianites, Moabites, and Ammonites"all these ...
These chiefs were respectively free to make alliances, or to take ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm