The term "The Three Companies" refers to a strategic military formation mentioned in the Old Testament, particularly in the context of Israel's battles. This formation is characterized by the division of forces into three distinct groups, often employed to achieve tactical advantage in warfare. The concept is notably illustrated in the narratives of Gideon and Saul, where divine guidance and human strategy intersect to bring about victory for the Israelites.

Gideon's Three Companies

One of the most prominent examples of the three companies is found in the account of Gideon in the Book of Judges. Gideon, a judge of Israel, was called by God to deliver the Israelites from the oppression of the Midianites. In Judges 7:16-22 , Gideon divides his 300 men into three companies. Each man is equipped with a trumpet, an empty jar, and a torch inside the jar. The strategic division and the unconventional weapons serve to create confusion and fear among the Midianite camp:

> "He divided the three hundred men into three companies and gave each man a ram’s horn in one hand and a large jar in the other, containing a torch. 'Watch me,' he said, 'and do as I do. When I come to the outskirts of the camp, do exactly as I do. When I and all who are with me blow our horns, then you are also to blow your horns from all around the camp and shout, ‘For the LORD and for Gideon!’'"

The result of this divinely inspired tactic is a miraculous victory, as the Midianites turn on each other in panic, leading to their defeat without a conventional battle.

Saul's Three Companies

Another instance of the three companies is found in the narrative of King Saul. In 1 Samuel 11:11 , Saul employs a similar tactic against the Ammonites. After receiving the Spirit of God, Saul musters an army to rescue the besieged city of Jabesh-gilead. He divides his forces into three companies to launch a surprise attack at dawn:

> "The next day Saul organized the troops into three divisions. During the morning watch, they invaded the camp of the Ammonites and slaughtered them until the heat of the day. The survivors were so scattered that no two of them were left together."

This strategic division allows Saul to achieve a decisive victory, demonstrating his leadership and the favor of God upon his kingship.

Significance in Biblical Warfare

The use of three companies in these narratives highlights several key themes in biblical warfare. Firstly, it underscores the importance of divine guidance and obedience to God's instructions. Both Gideon and Saul act under the direction of God, and their victories are attributed to His intervention. Secondly, the strategy of dividing forces into three companies reflects a tactical wisdom that maximizes surprise and confusion among the enemy, often leading to victory against overwhelming odds.

In the broader biblical context, the concept of three companies serves as a reminder of the power of faith and the effectiveness of divine strategy over human might. It illustrates how God can use unconventional means to achieve His purposes and deliver His people, reinforcing the theme of reliance on divine strength rather than human resources.