The practice of houghing horses, also known as hamstringing, is mentioned in the Bible as a method used to incapacitate horses, rendering them useless for battle or labor. This act involved cutting the tendons of the hind legs, effectively crippling the animal. The term "hough" is derived from an Old English word meaning to hamstring or disable.

Biblical References

The primary biblical references to the houghing of horses are found in the Old Testament, particularly in the context of warfare. One notable instance is in the Book of Joshua, where Joshua and the Israelites are instructed to hough the horses of their enemies:

· Joshua 11:6 : "The LORD said to Joshua, 'Do not be afraid of them, for by this time tomorrow I will deliver all of them slain before Israel. You are to hamstring their horses and burn their chariots with fire.'"

· Joshua 11:9 : "So Joshua and his whole army came against them suddenly at the Waters of Merom and attacked them, and the LORD delivered them into the hand of Israel. They defeated them and pursued them all the way to Greater Sidon, to Misrephoth-maim, and to the Valley of Mizpah on the east, until no survivors remained. Joshua did to them as the LORD had directed: he hamstrung their horses and burned their chariots with fire."

Another reference is found in the account of King David's military campaigns:

· 2 Samuel 8:4 : "David captured a thousand of his chariots, seven thousand charioteers, and twenty thousand foot soldiers. He hamstrung all the chariot horses, but he spared enough of them for a hundred chariots."

Historical and Cultural Context

In the ancient Near Eastern context, horses were a significant asset in warfare, primarily used to pull chariots. The houghing of horses was a strategic military tactic aimed at weakening an enemy's cavalry and chariotry, thereby reducing their mobility and effectiveness in battle. This practice was not unique to the Israelites; it was a common method employed by various ancient cultures to ensure that captured horses could not be used against them in future conflicts.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the houghing of horses as commanded by God in the Book of Joshua can be seen as an act of obedience and reliance on divine power rather than military might. By disabling the horses and burning the chariots, the Israelites were demonstrating their trust in God's provision and protection, rather than relying on the conventional military resources of the time.

The act also reflects the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty and the futility of human strength without divine support. In the narrative of Joshua, the Israelites' victories are attributed to God's intervention rather than their own military prowess, underscoring the belief that success in battle is ultimately determined by God's will.

Moral and Ethical Considerations

The houghing of horses raises moral and ethical questions, particularly concerning the treatment of animals. While the practice was a strategic necessity in the context of ancient warfare, it is viewed through a modern lens as a form of cruelty. The Bible does not explicitly address the ethical treatment of animals in this context, but it does provide broader principles of stewardship and care for God's creation, as seen in other passages that advocate for the humane treatment of animals (e.g., Proverbs 12:10).

In summary, the houghing of horses in the Bible is a reflection of the historical and cultural realities of ancient warfare, as well as a demonstration of faith and obedience to God's commands. The practice serves as a reminder of the reliance on divine strength over human resources in the pursuit of victory and justice.

Nave's Topical Index

Joshua 11:6,9
And the LORD said to Joshua, Be not afraid because of them: for to morrow about this time will I deliver them up all slain before Israel: you shall hamstring their horses, and burn their chariots with fire.
Nave's Topical Index

2 Samuel 8:4
And David took from him a thousand chariots, and seven hundred horsemen, and twenty thousand footmen: and David hamstrung all the chariot horses, but reserved of them for an hundred chariots.
Nave's Topical Index

1 Chronicles 18:4
And David took from him a thousand chariots, and seven thousand horsemen, and twenty thousand footmen: David also hamstrung all the chariot horses, but reserved of them an hundred chariots.
Nave's Topical Index

Resources

Houghed: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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