The title "King of Aphek" refers to the ruler of the city of Aphek, a location mentioned several times in the Old Testament. Aphek was a significant city in ancient Canaan, and its strategic location made it a site of numerous battles and events recorded in the biblical narrative.

Biblical References:

1. 1 Kings 20:26-30 : The most notable mention of the King of Aphek occurs in the context of the battles between the Israelites and the Arameans. In the spring, Ben-hadad mustered the Arameans and went up to Aphek to fight against Israel. The Israelites, under King Ahab, engaged the Arameans in battle at Aphek. The passage describes how the Israelites, though vastly outnumbered, were victorious due to divine intervention. "The Israelites camped opposite them like two small flocks of goats, while the Arameans covered the countryside. Then the man of God approached and said to the king of Israel, 'This is what the LORD says: Because the Arameans think the LORD is a god of the hills and not a god of the valleys, I will deliver all this great army into your hand, and you will know that I am the LORD.'" (1 Kings 20:27-28). The battle resulted in a significant defeat for the Arameans, with a wall in Aphek collapsing and killing 27,000 of their soldiers.

2. Joshua 12:18 : Aphek is listed among the cities whose kings were defeated by Joshua during the conquest of Canaan. "The king of Aphek, one; the king of Lasharon, one;" (Joshua 12:18). This reference highlights the city's importance and the extent of Israel's conquests under Joshua's leadership.

3. 1 Samuel 4:1 : Aphek is also mentioned as a gathering place for the Philistines before their battle against Israel, which resulted in the capture of the Ark of the Covenant. "And Samuel’s words went out to all Israel. Now Israel went out to meet the Philistines in battle; they camped at Ebenezer, while the Philistines camped at Aphek." (1 Samuel 4:1). This event underscores Aphek's role as a military staging ground.

Historical and Archaeological Context:

Aphek's location has been identified with several sites, including Tel Afek near the Yarkon River and Antipatris. Its strategic position along major trade and military routes made it a focal point for various powers throughout history. Archaeological excavations have uncovered remains from different periods, indicating its long-standing significance in the region.

Theological Significance:

The accounts involving the King of Aphek and the city itself serve as reminders of God's sovereignty and power. The victories attributed to divine intervention, such as the collapse of the wall in 1 Kings 20, emphasize the belief that God actively participates in the affairs of nations and delivers His people according to His purposes. These narratives also illustrate the recurring theme of God's faithfulness to Israel despite overwhelming odds, reinforcing the covenant relationship between God and His chosen people.