In the biblical narrative, the concept of men lying in ambush is often associated with military strategy, deception, and divine intervention. The act of ambushing is typically portrayed as a tactical maneuver used by armies or individuals to gain an advantage over their enemies. This entry explores several instances in the Bible where ambushes play a significant role, highlighting the moral and spiritual lessons derived from these events.

1. The Ambush at Ai (Joshua 8):
One of the most notable examples of an ambush in the Bible is the battle of Ai, where Joshua, under God's command, orchestrated a successful ambush against the city of Ai. After an initial defeat due to Achan's sin, the Israelites set an ambush behind the city. Joshua 8:2 states, "And you shall do to Ai and its king as you did to Jericho and its king, except that you may carry off their plunder and livestock for yourselves. Set an ambush behind the city." This strategic move led to a decisive victory, demonstrating the importance of obedience to God's instructions and the effectiveness of divine guidance in warfare.

2. The Ambush of Shechem (Judges 9):
In Judges 9, Abimelech, the son of Gideon, uses an ambush to capture the city of Shechem. After a revolt against him, Abimelech sets an ambush in the fields. Judges 9:34 records, "So Abimelech and all his troops set out by night and lay in wait against Shechem in four companies." This event illustrates the destructive nature of ambition and betrayal, as Abimelech's ruthless tactics ultimately lead to his downfall.

3. The Ambush against the Benjamites (Judges 20):
The tribe of Benjamin faced an ambush by the other Israelite tribes in response to a grievous crime committed in Gibeah. Judges 20:29 states, "So Israel set men in ambush around Gibeah." This ambush was part of a larger conflict that nearly led to the annihilation of the Benjamites, highlighting the severe consequences of sin and the need for justice within the community of God's people.

4. David and Saul (1 Samuel 23-24):
While not a traditional ambush, the narrative of David sparing Saul's life in the cave at En Gedi (1 Samuel 24) involves elements of surprise and restraint. David's men saw the opportunity to ambush Saul, but David chose to spare the king, demonstrating mercy and respect for God's anointed. This account underscores the virtues of patience, forgiveness, and trust in God's timing.

5. The Ambush of the Philistines (2 Samuel 5):
When David became king, he faced the Philistines, who spread out in the Valley of Rephaim. God instructed David to circle around and attack them from behind, using an ambush strategy. 2 Samuel 5:23-24 recounts, "So David inquired of the LORD, and He answered, 'Do not march straight up, but circle around behind them and attack them in front of the balsam trees. As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, move quickly, because this will mean the LORD has gone out in front of you to strike the Philistine army.'" This passage emphasizes the importance of seeking divine guidance and the assurance of victory when following God's plan.

Throughout the Bible, ambushes serve as a reminder of the complexities of human conflict and the necessity of aligning one's actions with God's will. These accounts provide insight into the moral and ethical dimensions of warfare, the consequences of sin, and the power of divine intervention in the affairs of men.