The Five Kings of the Amorites are notable figures in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of the Israelite conquest of Canaan under the leadership of Joshua. These kings are mentioned in the Book of Joshua, specifically in chapter 10, where they play a significant role in the events surrounding the miraculous victory at Gibeon.

Historical Context

The Amorites were one of the many Canaanite tribes inhabiting the land of Canaan before the arrival of the Israelites. Known for their fortified cities and warrior culture, the Amorites were a formidable presence in the region. The five kings in question ruled over key Amorite cities and formed a coalition to resist the Israelite advance.

Biblical Account

The account of the Five Kings of the Amorites is found in Joshua 10. The narrative begins with Adoni-Zedek, king of Jerusalem, who, upon hearing of Joshua's victories at Jericho and Ai and the treaty made with Gibeon, becomes alarmed. Recognizing the strategic threat posed by the Israelites, Adoni-Zedek calls upon four other Amorite kings to join forces against Gibeon, which had allied with Israel. These kings are:

1. Adoni-Zedek, King of Jerusalem
2. Hoham, King of Hebron
3. Piram, King of Jarmuth
4. Japhia, King of Lachish
5. Debir, King of Eglon

These kings and their armies besiege Gibeon, prompting the Gibeonites to appeal to Joshua for help. In response, Joshua leads a surprise night march from Gilgal and launches a sudden attack on the Amorite coalition.

Divine Intervention and Victory

The battle at Gibeon is marked by extraordinary divine intervention. As the Israelites engage the Amorite forces, the Lord confounds the enemy, allowing Israel to gain the upper hand. Joshua 10:11 describes how "the LORD hurled large hailstones down on them from the sky," resulting in more casualties than those inflicted by the sword.

In a moment of profound faith and divine response, Joshua commands the sun and moon to stand still to prolong the daylight, ensuring a complete victory. Joshua 10:13 records, "So the sun stood still and the moon stopped until the nation took vengeance upon its enemies."

Capture and Execution

Following their defeat, the five kings flee and hide in a cave at Makkedah. Joshua orders the cave to be sealed with large stones and guarded. After the battle, the kings are brought out, humiliated by having the Israelite commanders place their feet on the kings' necks, and then executed. Joshua 10:26 states, "After this, Joshua struck them down and killed them, and he hung their bodies on five trees, where they remained until evening."

Theological Significance

The defeat of the Five Kings of the Amorites underscores the theme of divine sovereignty and faithfulness in the conquest narrative. The miraculous events at Gibeon demonstrate God's direct intervention on behalf of His people, fulfilling His promises to give them the land of Canaan. The account also serves as a testament to the power of faith and obedience, as Joshua's leadership and reliance on God's guidance lead to a decisive victory.

The account of the Five Kings of the Amorites is a vivid illustration of the broader biblical narrative of God's judgment against the Canaanite nations and His provision for the Israelites as they establish themselves in the Promised Land.