1 Chronicles 19:9

And the children of Ammon came out, and put the battle in array before the gate of the city: and the kings that were come [were] by themselves in the field.

And the children {H1121} of Ammon {H5983} came out {H3318}, and put the battle {H4421} in array {H6186} before the gate {H6607} of the city {H5892}: and the kings {H4428} that were come {H935} were by themselves in the field {H7704}.

The army of 'Amon came out and went into battle formation at the city gate, while the kings who had come were alone in the countryside.

The Ammonites marched out and arrayed themselves for battle at the entrance to the city, while the kings who had come stayed by themselves in the open country.

And the children of Ammon came out, and put the battle in array at the gate of the city: and the kings that were come were by themselves in the field.

Commentary

1 Chronicles 19:9 describes the opening movements of a significant conflict between King David's Israelite forces and the combined armies of the Ammonites and their Syrian allies. This verse sets the stage for a major battle, highlighting the immediate readiness and strategic positioning of the enemy forces.

Context of 1 Chronicles 19:9

This verse is part of the account of David's war against the Ammonites, which began after King Hanun of Ammon publicly humiliated David's ambassadors (1 Chronicles 19:4). David had sent them with condolences after the death of Hanun's father, Nahash, who had shown kindness to David. The Ammonites, realizing the gravity of their insult and anticipating David's retaliation, hired mercenary armies from various Aramean (Syrian) kingdoms, including Beth-rehob, Zobah, Maachah, and Ish-tob (1 Chronicles 19:6). In response, David sent his formidable commander, Joab, with the entire Israelite army (1 Chronicles 19:8) to confront them. Verse 9 details the enemy's deployment as the Israelites arrived.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Preparation for Conflict: The verse vividly portrays the enemy's immediate readiness for battle. The phrase "put the battle in array" signifies the disciplined formation of troops, indicating a prepared and formidable opposition.
  • Strategic Deployment: The Ammonites positioned themselves "before the gate of the city" (likely their capital, Rabbah), indicating a defensive posture to protect their stronghold. Simultaneously, their Syrian allies were "by themselves in the field," suggesting a separate, perhaps flanking or offensive, position. This division of forces presented a complex challenge for Joab's army, requiring a strategic response, as seen in the verses that follow.
  • Consequences of Pride and Insult: The entire war, and thus this battle array, was a direct consequence of Hanun's foolish and prideful act of humiliating David's envoys. It underscores how initial provocations can escalate into widespread and costly conflicts.

Linguistic Insight

The Hebrew phrase translated "put the battle in array" is โ€˜arakh milchamah (ืขืจืš ืžืœื—ืžื”), which literally means "to arrange a war" or "to set in order for battle." It conveys the sense of a deliberate and organized military formation, not merely a chaotic charge. This emphasizes the strategic planning involved by the Ammonite and Syrian forces.

Practical Application

This verse, while historical, offers insights into the nature of conflict and preparation:

  • The Ripple Effect of Actions: The initial insult by Hanun had far-reaching and violent consequences, reminding us that our words and deeds, especially those driven by pride or disrespect, can lead to unforeseen and severe outcomes.
  • Facing Opposition: Just as David's army faced a strategically arrayed enemy, believers often encounter significant challenges or spiritual opposition. This verse implicitly highlights the need for discernment and strategic thinking when confronting difficulties, trusting in God's guidance.
  • The Reality of Conflict: Life often presents moments where we must "put the battle in array," whether it's preparing for a difficult task, standing firm in faith, or defending truth. Understanding the nature of the opposition helps in formulating a wise response.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Kings 20:1 (2 votes)

    ยถ And Benhadad the king of Syria gathered all his host together: and [there were] thirty and two kings with him, and horses, and chariots: and he went up and besieged Samaria, and warred against it.

  • 2 Samuel 10:8 (2 votes)

    And the children of Ammon came out, and put the battle in array at the entering in of the gate: and the Syrians of Zoba, and of Rehob, and Ishtob, and Maacah, [were] by themselves in the field.

  • 1 Samuel 17:2 (2 votes)

    And Saul and the men of Israel were gathered together, and pitched by the valley of Elah, and set the battle in array against the Philistines.

  • 2 Samuel 18:4 (2 votes)

    And the king said unto them, What seemeth you best I will do. And the king stood by the gate side, and all the people came out by hundreds and by thousands.

  • Isaiah 28:6 (2 votes)

    And for a spirit of judgment to him that sitteth in judgment, and for strength to them that turn the battle to the gate.

  • 1 Kings 20:24 (2 votes)

    And do this thing, Take the kings away, every man out of his place, and put captains in their rooms:

  • Joel 2:5 (2 votes)

    Like the noise of chariots on the tops of mountains shall they leap, like the noise of a flame of fire that devoureth the stubble, as a strong people set in battle array.