Topical Encyclopedia Nahash, an Ammonite king, is a significant figure in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of his interactions with the Israelites during the early monarchy period. His account is primarily recorded in the Old Testament, where he is depicted as an adversary of Israel and a catalyst for the unification of the tribes under King Saul.Background and Historical Context The Ammonites were descendants of Lot, Abraham's nephew, and were often in conflict with the Israelites. The kingdom of Ammon was located east of the Jordan River, in what is now modern-day Jordan. Nahash, as king of the Ammonites, played a pivotal role during a time when Israel was transitioning from a loose confederation of tribes to a centralized monarchy. Siege of Jabesh-Gilead Nahash is most famously known for his siege of Jabesh-Gilead, a city in the territory of Gilead, east of the Jordan River. The account of this event is found in 1 Samuel 11. Nahash laid siege to the city, and the men of Jabesh-Gilead sought to make a treaty with him to avoid destruction. Nahash's terms were brutal: he demanded that he gouge out the right eye of every man in the city, a condition meant to disgrace Israel and render them incapable of effective military resistance. 1 Samuel 11:2 records Nahash's response: "But Nahash the Ammonite replied, 'I will make a treaty with you on one condition: that I gouge out the right eye of every one of you and bring disgrace on all Israel.'" Saul's Response and Victory The threat posed by Nahash prompted the newly anointed King Saul to take decisive action. When Saul heard of the plight of Jabesh-Gilead, the Spirit of God came powerfully upon him, and he rallied the Israelites to come to the city's aid. Saul's leadership in this crisis was instrumental in solidifying his position as king and uniting the tribes of Israel. 1 Samuel 11:6-7 describes Saul's reaction: "When Saul heard their words, the Spirit of God came powerfully upon him, and he burned with anger. He took a pair of oxen, cut them into pieces, and sent the pieces by messengers throughout Israel, proclaiming, 'This is what will be done to the oxen of anyone who does not follow Saul and Samuel.' Then the terror of the LORD fell on the people, and they turned out as one man." Saul's forces defeated the Ammonites, lifting the siege and saving Jabesh-Gilead. This victory was a defining moment for Saul's reign and demonstrated the effectiveness of a united Israel under a divinely appointed king. Legacy and Later References Nahash's interactions with Israel did not end with his defeat at Jabesh-Gilead. Later, in 2 Samuel 10, Nahash's death is mentioned, and his son Hanun becomes king. David, who had a friendly relationship with Nahash, sent envoys to express his condolences. However, Hanun's mistrust led to further conflict between the Ammonites and Israel. Nahash's role in the biblical narrative highlights the ongoing tensions between Israel and its neighbors and underscores the importance of strong, divinely guided leadership in overcoming external threats. His account serves as a backdrop for the establishment of the monarchy in Israel and the unification of the tribes under Saul's leadership. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 11:1-11Then Nahash the Ammonite came up, and encamped against Jabeshgilead: and all the men of Jabesh said to Nahash, Make a covenant with us, and we will serve you. Nave's Topical Index Library The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources Does the Bible mention David's mother? | GotQuestions.orgWho were the Ammonites? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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