1 Kings 15:19

"Let there be a treaty between me and you, between my father and your father. See, I have sent you a gift of silver and gold. Now go and break your treaty with Baasha king of Israel, so that he will withdraw from me."

Study Bible

Let there be a treaty between me and you
The phrase "Let there be a treaty" signifies a formal agreement or covenant. In the Hebrew context, the word for treaty is "berit," which implies a binding agreement often sealed with a solemn oath. Historically, treaties were common in the ancient Near East as a means of ensuring peace and cooperation between nations. This reflects the political maneuvering typical of the era, where alliances were crucial for survival and stability.

between my father and your father
This phrase highlights the historical continuity and the importance of ancestral relationships in diplomatic affairs. It suggests that there was a precedent for peace and cooperation between the two families, which the current leaders are encouraged to renew. This appeal to tradition underscores the respect for lineage and the weight of familial legacy in decision-making processes.

See, I am sending you a gift of silver and gold
The act of sending a "gift of silver and gold" is a strategic gesture of goodwill and an attempt to secure favor. In ancient times, such gifts were not merely tokens of friendship but were often substantial enough to influence political decisions. The use of precious metals indicates the seriousness of the proposal and the wealth and resources at the disposal of the sender, reflecting the economic practices of the time.

Now break your treaty with Baasha king of Israel
This request to "break your treaty" with Baasha is a bold political move. It involves asking a foreign power to abandon its current alliance, which would have been a significant and risky decision. The historical context here is the divided kingdom of Israel and Judah, where shifting alliances were common as each sought to strengthen its position. This reflects the turbulent and often unstable nature of political relationships in the region.

so that he will withdraw from me
The desired outcome is that Baasha "will withdraw," indicating a military or political retreat. This phrase underscores the immediate threat faced by the speaker and the urgency of the request. It highlights the constant state of conflict and the need for strategic alliances to ensure security and peace. The historical backdrop of frequent wars and territorial disputes in the region provides context for this plea for intervention.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Asa
King of Judah, known for his religious reforms and efforts to rid Judah of idolatry. He sought to strengthen his kingdom by forming alliances.

2. Ben-Hadad
King of Aram (Syria), approached by Asa to break his treaty with Baasha and form an alliance with Judah instead.

3. Baasha
King of Israel, who was in conflict with Asa and had fortified Ramah to control access to Judah.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom of the divided Israelite monarchy, ruled by Asa during this period.

5. Israel
The northern kingdom, ruled by Baasha, often in conflict with Judah.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Human Alliances
Asa's decision to form an alliance with Ben-Hadad highlights the temptation to rely on human strength and wisdom rather than seeking God's guidance and provision.

The Importance of Trusting God
Asa's actions serve as a reminder of the importance of placing our trust in God, even in difficult circumstances, rather than seeking security through worldly means.

Consequences of Compromise
Asa's compromise in seeking an alliance with a foreign king led to temporary relief but ultimately demonstrated a lack of faith, which had spiritual consequences for his reign.

The Role of Leadership
Asa's decision-making as a leader had significant implications for his kingdom, illustrating the responsibility leaders have to seek God's will and lead with integrity.

Learning from Past Mistakes
Asa's actions can encourage us to learn from the mistakes of biblical figures, understanding that reliance on God is always the best course of action.

Bible Study Questions

1. What motivated Asa to seek an alliance with Ben-Hadad, and how does this reflect on his faith in God?

2. How does Asa's decision to rely on a foreign king compare to other biblical examples of leaders who trusted in God during times of conflict?

3. In what ways can we be tempted to rely on human solutions rather than seeking God's guidance in our own lives?

4. How does the account of Asa's alliance with Ben-Hadad challenge us to evaluate our own leadership and decision-making processes?

5. What lessons can we learn from Asa's actions about the importance of maintaining faith and integrity in our relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Chronicles 16:1-6
This passage provides a parallel account of Asa's actions, offering additional details about his alliance with Ben-Hadad and the consequences of his reliance on human alliances rather than God.

Proverbs 3:5-6
These verses emphasize trusting in the Lord rather than relying on one's own understanding, which contrasts with Asa's decision to seek a human alliance.

Isaiah 31:1
Warns against relying on foreign alliances and military strength instead of trusting in God, which is relevant to Asa's actions in seeking help from Ben-Hadad.