2 Chronicles 16:4

And Ben-hadad listened to King Asa and sent the commanders of his armies against the cities of Israel, conquering Ijon, Dan, Abel-maim, and all the store cities of Naphtali.

Study Bible

And Ben-hadad listened
The name "Ben-hadad" is of Aramaic origin, meaning "son of Hadad," with Hadad being a storm and fertility god worshiped in ancient Syria. This highlights the political and religious complexities of the time, as alliances were often formed across different belief systems. Ben-hadad's willingness to listen to King Asa indicates a strategic political move, showing the influence and diplomacy Asa wielded. Historically, this reflects the intricate web of alliances and enmities that characterized the ancient Near East.

to King Asa
Asa, the king of Judah, is noted for his religious reforms and efforts to rid Judah of idolatry, as seen earlier in his reign. His name means "physician" or "healer," which is fitting given his attempts to restore spiritual health to his kingdom. However, this verse marks a turning point where Asa relies on human alliances rather than divine intervention, a decision that later brings criticism from the prophet Hanani. This serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and reliance on God over worldly powers.

and sent the commanders of his armies
The phrase underscores the military might and organizational structure of ancient kingdoms. Commanders were key figures, often chosen for their loyalty and skill. This action by Ben-hadad signifies a formal and aggressive response, indicating the seriousness of the alliance with Asa. It also reflects the constant state of warfare and territorial disputes in the region, where military strength was a crucial aspect of a king's power and influence.

against the cities of Israel
This phrase highlights the internal conflict within the divided kingdom of Israel and Judah. The northern kingdom of Israel, under King Baasha, was often at odds with Judah. The targeting of Israelite cities by a foreign power, at the behest of a fellow Israelite king, underscores the deep divisions and political strife that plagued the people of God. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of disunity and the vulnerability it brings.

conquering Ijon, Dan, Abel-maim
These cities were strategically important locations in the northern kingdom of Israel. Ijon and Dan were situated near key trade routes, making them valuable targets for control. Abel-maim, also known as Abel-beth-maacah, was a fortified city, indicating its military significance. The conquest of these cities by Ben-hadad's forces would have been a significant blow to Israel's strength and morale, illustrating the tangible consequences of Asa's alliance.

and all the store cities of Naphtali
Naphtali was one of the northern tribes of Israel, and its store cities were vital for the storage of grain and supplies, essential for sustaining the population and military. The loss of these cities would have had severe economic and logistical impacts on Israel. This phrase highlights the strategic nature of warfare in the ancient world, where controlling resources was as crucial as winning battles. It also reflects the broader theme of reliance on God for provision and protection, as opposed to human alliances and strategies.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ben-hadad
The king of Aram (Syria) who formed an alliance with King Asa of Judah. His involvement was pivotal in the conflict between Judah and Israel.

2. King Asa
The king of Judah who sought an alliance with Ben-hadad to gain military advantage over Israel, demonstrating a lack of reliance on God.

3. Ijon, Dan, Abel-maim, and Naphtali
Cities and regions in the northern kingdom of Israel that were attacked and conquered by Ben-hadad's forces, weakening Israel's position.

4. The Kingdom of Israel
The northern kingdom, distinct from Judah, which was under the rule of King Baasha at the time. The conflict with Judah was part of ongoing hostilities between the two kingdoms.

5. The Kingdom of Judah
The southern kingdom, ruled by King Asa, who sought to strengthen his position against Israel through foreign alliances.

Teaching Points

Reliance on God vs. Human Alliances
Asa's decision to rely on Ben-hadad rather than God serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of placing trust in human alliances over divine guidance.

The Consequences of Compromise
Compromising faith principles for political or personal gain can lead to unintended negative consequences, as seen in the weakening of Israel and Asa's later rebuke by the prophet Hanani.

The Importance of Consistent Faith
Asa's earlier faithfulness contrasted with his later actions highlights the need for consistent reliance on God throughout one's life, not just in times of obvious need.

God's Sovereignty in Political Affairs
The events remind believers that God is sovereign over nations and political affairs, and His plans will ultimately prevail despite human actions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Asa's alliance with Ben-hadad reflect a shift in his reliance on God, and what can we learn from this about maintaining faith in challenging situations?

2. In what ways do the events in 2 Chronicles 16:4 illustrate the consequences of compromising one's faith for political or personal gain?

3. How can we apply the principle of trusting in God rather than human alliances in our own lives, especially when facing difficult decisions?

4. What other biblical examples can you think of where reliance on God led to victory, and how do these examples encourage us today?

5. How does understanding God's sovereignty over political affairs influence our perspective on current events and our role as Christians in society?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 15:16-22
This passage provides a parallel account of the events, offering additional context to Asa's actions and the political dynamics between Judah and Israel.

2 Chronicles 14:11
Earlier in Asa's reign, he demonstrated reliance on God during a battle against the Cushites, contrasting with his later decision to rely on a foreign alliance.

Proverbs 3:5-6
These verses emphasize trusting in the Lord rather than relying on one's own understanding, a principle Asa neglected in this instance.