Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, the concept of presents or gifts is often associated with expressions of goodwill, allegiance, or diplomacy. However, there are instances where gifts are strategically used as weapons of war, serving as tools for deception, manipulation, or appeasement in times of conflict. These instances highlight the multifaceted role of gifts in the ancient Near Eastern context, where they could be employed to achieve military or political objectives.1. The Deceptive Gift of the Gibeonites One of the most notable examples of gifts used as a weapon of war is found in the account of the Gibeonites in the Book of Joshua. The Gibeonites, fearing the advancing Israelites, resorted to deception to secure a peace treaty. They presented themselves as ambassadors from a distant land, bringing worn-out sacks, old wineskins, patched sandals, and dry, moldy bread as their "gifts" to Joshua and the Israelites (Joshua 9:4-5). These items were intended to convince the Israelites of their long journey, thus securing a covenant of peace. This strategic use of gifts ultimately spared the Gibeonites from destruction, demonstrating how presents could be wielded as a means of survival in wartime. 2. Tribute as a Form of Subjugation In the ancient world, tribute was often demanded by conquering powers as a sign of submission and allegiance. This form of gift-giving is evident in the biblical narrative, where subjugated nations were required to present valuable goods to their overlords. For instance, King Solomon received tribute from various nations, which included gold, silver, garments, weapons, spices, horses, and mules (1 Kings 10:25). These tributes served not only as a source of wealth but also as a means of maintaining political dominance and ensuring peace through the display of power. 3. Gifts to Secure Alliances Gifts were also used to forge alliances and secure military support. In 1 Kings 15:18-19, King Asa of Judah sent silver and gold from the treasuries of the LORD's temple and the royal palace to Ben-Hadad, king of Aram, as a present. This gift was intended to persuade Ben-Hadad to break his treaty with Baasha, king of Israel, and instead form an alliance with Asa. The strategic use of gifts in this context underscores their role as instruments of diplomacy and war, facilitating shifts in power dynamics and military alliances. 4. The Subversive Gift of Delilah In the account of Samson and Delilah, gifts are used as a means of betrayal. The Philistine rulers promised Delilah a substantial reward of silver if she could discover the secret of Samson's strength and deliver him into their hands (Judges 16:5). This promise of wealth served as a weapon of war, as Delilah's betrayal led to Samson's capture and the temporary subjugation of Israel by the Philistines. Here, the promise of gifts becomes a catalyst for military advantage, illustrating the darker side of gift-giving in the context of conflict. 5. Gifts as a Means of Appeasement In some cases, gifts were used to appease potential aggressors and avert conflict. Jacob's encounter with his brother Esau is a prime example. Fearing Esau's wrath, Jacob sent ahead a series of gifts, including livestock and servants, to pacify his brother and prevent an attack (Genesis 32:13-20). This act of appeasement through gifts highlights their potential to diffuse tension and transform potential enmity into reconciliation. Throughout the biblical narrative, presents or gifts are depicted as powerful tools that can influence the course of events in times of war. Whether used for deception, subjugation, alliance-building, betrayal, or appeasement, these gifts reveal the complex interplay between diplomacy and conflict in the ancient world. 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The Temptation Resources What are the Christian themes in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Justin Martyr? | GotQuestions.org Why do the four Gospels seem to present a different message of salvation than the rest of the New Testament? | GotQuestions.org Presents: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Presents of Persons of Rank, of Great Value and Variety Presents were Given by Kings to Each Other in Token of Inferiority Presents were Given in Token of Friendship Presents were Given: As Tribute Presents were Given: At Marriages Presents were Given: On all Occasions of Public Rejoicing Presents were Given: On Occasions of Visits Presents were Given: On Recovering from Sickness Presents were Given: On Restoration to Prosperity Presents were Given: On Sending Away Friends Presents were Given: To Appease the Angry Feelings of Others Presents were Given: To Confirm Covenants Presents were Given: To Judges to Secure a Favourable Hearing Presents were Given: To Kings to Engage Their Aid Presents were Given: To Reward Service Presents were Given: To Show Respect Presents: Considered Essential on all Visits of Business Presents: Generally Presented in Person Presents: Generally Procured a Favourable Reception Presents: Laid out and Presented With Great Ceremony Presents: Not Bringing, Considered a Mark of Disrespect Presents: Often Borne by Servants Presents: Often Conveyed on Camels Presents: Receiving of, a Token of Good Will Presents: Sometimes Sent Before the Giver Presents: Things Given as Cattle Presents: Things Given as Food Presents: Things Given as Garments Presents: Things Given as Gold and Silver Vessels Presents: Things Given as Horses and Mules Presents: Things Given as Money Presents: Things Given as Ornaments Presents: Things Given as Precious Stones Presents: Things Given as Servants Presents: Things Given as Weapons of War Presents: when Small or Defective, Refused Related Terms |
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