The title "King of the Ammonites" refers to the monarchial leaders of the Ammonite people, a group descended from Ben-Ammi, the son of Lot through his younger daughter (Genesis 19:38). The Ammonites were a significant people group in the Old Testament, often in conflict with the Israelites. Their territory was located east of the Jordan River, in what is now modern-day Jordan, with their capital at Rabbah (modern Amman).

Historical Context

The Ammonites are first mentioned in the context of the patriarchal narratives, and their interactions with Israel are recorded throughout the historical books of the Old Testament. The Ammonites were closely related to the Moabites, as both were descendants of Lot. Despite this kinship, the Ammonites frequently opposed Israel, both during the wilderness wanderings and in the period of the Judges and Kings.

Notable Kings

1. Nahash: One of the most notable kings of the Ammonites was Nahash. He is mentioned in 1 Samuel 11, where he besieged Jabesh-gilead. The men of Jabesh sought a treaty with Nahash, who cruelly demanded that he gouge out the right eye of every man as a condition for peace. This act of aggression prompted Saul, the newly anointed king of Israel, to rally the Israelites and deliver Jabesh-gilead from Nahash's hand. Nahash's interactions with David are also noted, as he showed kindness to David during his time of fleeing from Saul (2 Samuel 10:2).

2. Hanun: Hanun was the son of Nahash and succeeded him as king. His reign is marked by a significant conflict with King David. After Nahash's death, David sent envoys to express his condolences to Hanun. However, Hanun's advisors suspected espionage and humiliated David's servants by shaving half their beards and cutting their garments (2 Samuel 10:4). This act led to a war between Israel and the Ammonites, resulting in a decisive victory for David's forces.

3. Baasha: Another king mentioned in the context of the Ammonites is Baasha, though his role is less prominent. The Ammonites, under various kings, continued to be a thorn in Israel's side, often allying with other nations against Israel.

Religious Practices

The Ammonites were known for their worship of the god Milcom (also known as Molech), which included detestable practices such as child sacrifice. This idolatry was a significant point of contention between the Ammonites and the Israelites, who were commanded by God to avoid such practices (Leviticus 18:21).

Prophetic Denunciations

The prophets frequently denounced the Ammonites for their hostility towards Israel and their idolatrous practices. For instance, the prophet Amos declared judgment against the Ammonites for their violent expansionism: "This is what the LORD says: 'For three transgressions of the Ammonites, even for four, I will not revoke My judgment, because they ripped open the pregnant women of Gilead to enlarge their territory'" (Amos 1:13).

Legacy

The Ammonites, like many of Israel's ancient neighbors, eventually faded from prominence. Their interactions with Israel, however, are preserved in the biblical narrative as a testament to the complex relationships between the nations of the ancient Near East. The biblical record of the Ammonite kings serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by Israel in maintaining their covenantal identity amidst surrounding pagan influences.