Topical Bible: Miracles: Catalogue of Hailstones on the Confederated Kings

◄ Miracles: Catalogue of Hailstones on the Confederated Kings ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The miraculous event of hailstones falling upon the confederated kings is a significant episode recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Joshua. This event is a testament to God's direct intervention in the affairs of Israel, showcasing His power and favor towards His chosen people.

Biblical Account

The account of the hailstones is found in Joshua 10:1-11. The narrative describes how five Amorite kings—Adoni-Zedek of Jerusalem, Hoham of Hebron, Piram of Jarmuth, Japhia of Lachish, and Debir of Eglon—formed a coalition to attack Gibeon, a city that had made peace with Israel. In response, the Gibeonites called upon Joshua and the Israelites for help.

Joshua, assured by God of victory, led a surprise attack against the Amorite coalition. As the battle ensued, the Lord intervened in a miraculous manner. Joshua 10:11 states, "As they fled before Israel on the road down from Beth-horon to Azekah, the LORD hurled large hailstones down upon them from the sky, and more of them died from the hailstones than were killed by the swords of the Israelites."

Theological Significance

This miracle underscores several key theological themes:

1. Divine Sovereignty and Power: The event highlights God's supreme control over nature. The hailstones, a natural phenomenon, are used supernaturally to achieve His purposes. This demonstrates that God is not limited by natural laws but can manipulate them to fulfill His will.

2. God's Favor and Protection: The miracle serves as a sign of God's favor towards Israel. By intervening directly in the battle, God assures Israel of His protection and support against their enemies. This divine assistance reinforces the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

3. Judgment and Justice: The destruction of the Amorite forces through hailstones can be seen as an act of divine judgment. The Amorites, who opposed God's people, faced the consequences of their actions. This reflects the biblical principle that God is just and will execute judgment against those who oppose His will.

4. Faith and Obedience: Joshua's faith in God's promise of victory is pivotal. His obedience in leading the Israelites into battle, despite the odds, is rewarded by God's miraculous intervention. This encourages believers to trust in God's promises and act in faith, knowing that He is faithful to deliver.

Historical and Cultural Context

In the ancient Near Eastern context, hailstones were often seen as a divine weapon. The use of hailstones in this narrative would have been understood by contemporary audiences as a clear sign of divine intervention. The Amorites, like many ancient peoples, would have interpreted such a phenomenon as an indication of the favor of a deity—in this case, the God of Israel.

Miraculous Nature

The miraculous nature of the hailstones is emphasized by the fact that more Amorites died from the hail than from the swords of the Israelites. This detail underscores the supernatural aspect of the event, as it was not merely a natural occurrence but a targeted act of divine intervention.

Conclusion

The miracle of the hailstones on the confederated kings is a powerful demonstration of God's active role in the history of Israel. It serves as a reminder of His sovereignty, justice, and faithfulness, encouraging believers to trust in His power and promises.

Nave's Topical Index

Joshua 10:11
And it came to pass, as they fled from before Israel, and were in the going down to Bethhoron, that the LORD cast down great stones from heaven on them to Azekah, and they died: they were more which died with hailstones than they whom the children of Israel slew with the sword.
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