The term "Five Kings" in the Bible typically refers to a coalition of Amorite kings who opposed the Israelites during the conquest of Canaan under Joshua's leadership. This event is recorded in the Book of Joshua, specifically in Joshua 10. The narrative provides a significant account of divine intervention and military strategy, highlighting God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His promises to Israel.

Historical Context

The coalition of the Five Kings arose during the Israelite conquest of Canaan, a period marked by numerous battles as the Israelites, under Joshua's command, sought to claim the land promised to them by God. The Amorite kings, recognizing the threat posed by the Israelites, banded together to resist the advancing forces.

The Five Kings

The five kings mentioned in the biblical account are:

1. Adoni-Zedek, King of Jerusalem: He was the leader of the coalition and initiated the alliance against the Israelites. His name means "Lord of Righteousness," which is ironic given his opposition to God's people.

2. Hoham, King of Hebron: Hebron was a significant city in the southern part of Canaan, and its king joined the coalition to protect his territory from the Israelite incursion.

3. Piram, King of Jarmuth: Jarmuth was another city-state in the region, and its king aligned with the coalition to bolster their collective strength.

4. Japhia, King of Lachish: Lachish was a fortified city, and its king's participation in the coalition underscores the widespread concern among the Canaanite kings regarding the Israelite threat.

5. Debir, King of Eglon: Eglon was a city in the lowlands, and its king's involvement in the coalition highlights the strategic importance of the alliance.

The Battle and Divine Intervention

The narrative in Joshua 10 describes how the Five Kings gathered their forces to attack Gibeon, a city that had made peace with Israel. In response, the Gibeonites called upon Joshua for help. Joshua led a surprise attack against the coalition, marching all night from Gilgal to Gibeon.

The battle is notable for the miraculous events that occurred. As the Israelites fought, God intervened by causing confusion among the Amorite forces and sending a hailstorm that killed more of the enemy than the Israelites did with the sword. The most remarkable miracle was Joshua's prayer for the sun to stand still, allowing the Israelites more time to achieve victory. The Bible records, "So the sun stood still, and the moon stopped until the nation took vengeance upon its enemies" (Joshua 10:13).

The Fate of the Five Kings

After their defeat, the Five Kings fled and hid in a cave at Makkedah. Joshua ordered the cave to be sealed with large stones and guarded. Later, the kings were brought out, and Joshua executed them, hanging their bodies on trees until evening as a sign of complete victory and divine judgment. This act served as a warning to other Canaanite kings and demonstrated the fulfillment of God's promise to deliver the land into Israel's hands.

Theological Significance

The account of the Five Kings underscores several key theological themes:

· Divine Sovereignty: The narrative highlights God's control over nature and history, as seen in the miraculous extension of daylight and the hailstorm.
· Covenant Faithfulness: God's intervention on behalf of Israel demonstrates His faithfulness to the covenant promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
· Judgment and Mercy: While the destruction of the Canaanite kings illustrates divine judgment, the sparing of Gibeon shows God's mercy to those who align themselves with His people.

The account of the Five Kings serves as a powerful reminder of God's power and faithfulness, encouraging believers to trust in His promises and His ability to deliver them from their adversaries.