Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of 1 Kings - Chapter 20 - Verse 1

20:1
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.

Meaning

In this verse from the Bible, we see Benhadad, the king of Syria, gathering his massive army consisting of thirty-two kings, along with horses and chariots. He then proceeds to besiege Samaria, the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel, and wages war against it. This event depicts a significant military campaign where a powerful coalition of forces led by Benhadad seeks to conquer Samaria and assert dominance over the region. The verse highlights the strategic and military prowess of Benhadad as he mobilizes a formidable army to carry out his objective. It also serves as a reminder of the constant threats and conflicts faced by the ancient kingdoms in the biblical narrative, emphasizing the turbulent nature of the times. Overall, this verse provides insight into the historical context of ancient warfare and political rivalries in the region.

Theological Overview

In the verse from 1 Kings 20:1, we see Benhadad, the king of Syria, gathering a vast army to besiege Samaria. This event is significant in understanding the power dynamics and conflicts that took place during ancient times. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the importance of unity and strength in facing external threats. The mention of thirty-two kings aligning themselves with Benhadad underscores the scale of the conflict and the resources amassed for the siege. The reference to horses and chariots also emphasizes the military might of the invading forces. Through word studies, we can delve deeper into the implications of "besieged" and "warred against," shedding light on the tactics employed in ancient warfare and the challenges faced by the people of Samaria. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the constant struggle for power and territory in historical contexts, prompting reflection on the themes of war, leadership, and resilience.

American Standard Version

And Ben-hadad 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 fought against it.
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