The term "Seventy Kings" is primarily associated with the account of Adoni-Bezek in the Book of Judges. This narrative provides insight into the practices and political dynamics of the ancient Near East during the period of the Judges.

Biblical Reference:

The primary reference to the "Seventy Kings" is found in Judges 1:5-7. The passage describes the capture of Adoni-Bezek, a Canaanite king, by the tribes of Judah and Simeon. The Berean Standard Bible renders the passage as follows:

"They found Adoni-Bezek at Bezek and fought against him, striking down the Canaanites and Perizzites. As Adoni-Bezek fled, they pursued him, seized him, and cut off his thumbs and big toes. Then Adoni-Bezek said, 'Seventy kings with their thumbs and big toes cut off used to gather scraps under my table. As I have done, so God has repaid me.' And they brought him to Jerusalem, where he died."

Historical and Cultural Context:

The practice of mutilating captured kings by cutting off their thumbs and big toes was a form of humiliation and incapacitation. Without thumbs, a warrior could not effectively wield a weapon, and without big toes, he would struggle to maintain balance, making it difficult to run or stand firmly. This act symbolized the complete subjugation and defeat of these kings, rendering them powerless and dependent.

Adoni-Bezek's acknowledgment of his own actions against the seventy kings reflects the brutal and retributive nature of ancient warfare. His statement, "As I have done, so God has repaid me," suggests a recognition of divine justice, a theme prevalent throughout the biblical narrative. This acknowledgment indicates an understanding that his own suffering was a direct consequence of his previous actions, aligning with the biblical principle of reaping what one sows (cf. Galatians 6:7).

Theological Implications:

The account of the seventy kings serves as a reminder of the sovereignty and justice of God. It illustrates the biblical theme that God repays individuals according to their deeds, a concept that is echoed throughout Scripture. The narrative also highlights the moral and ethical standards expected by God, even among those who do not worship Him.

Furthermore, the account of Adoni-Bezek and the seventy kings underscores the transient nature of earthly power and the ultimate authority of God over the nations. Despite the might and influence of these kings, they were ultimately subject to God's judgment and justice.

Symbolic Interpretation:

In a broader symbolic sense, the number seventy often represents completeness or totality in biblical literature. While the text does not explicitly state that the number seventy is symbolic in this context, it may imply the comprehensive nature of Adoni-Bezek's conquests and subsequent downfall. This interpretation aligns with other instances in Scripture where the number seventy signifies fullness or entirety, such as the seventy elders of Israel (Exodus 24:1) and the seventy nations listed in the Table of Nations (Genesis 10).

Conclusion:

The account of the seventy kings in Judges 1:5-7 provides a vivid illustration of the harsh realities of ancient warfare and the moral lessons derived from divine justice. It serves as a testament to the enduring biblical themes of retribution, humility, and the ultimate authority of God over human affairs.