The narrative of the conquered kings in the Bible primarily unfolds in the Book of Joshua, where the Israelites, under Joshua's leadership, embark on the divinely ordained conquest of Canaan. This period marks the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the land of Canaan (Genesis 12:7). The conquest is characterized by a series of military campaigns against various city-states and their kings, demonstrating God's sovereignty and faithfulness to His covenant people.

Conquest of the Southern Kings

The initial phase of the conquest involves the southern region of Canaan. Following the miraculous fall of Jericho (Joshua 6) and the subsequent victory at Ai (Joshua 8), the Israelites face a coalition of southern kings led by Adoni-Zedek, king of Jerusalem. This coalition includes the kings of Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachish, and Eglon. In response to their attack on Gibeon, a city that had made peace with Israel, Joshua leads a surprise attack, aided by divine intervention in the form of hailstones and the sun standing still (Joshua 10:12-14). The campaign results in the defeat of these kings and the capture of their cities, as recorded in Joshua 10:40-42 : "So Joshua conquered the whole region... He left no survivors, but he devoted to destruction everything that breathed, just as the LORD, the God of Israel, had commanded."

Conquest of the Northern Kings

The northern campaign is initiated by a coalition led by Jabin, king of Hazor. This formidable alliance includes numerous kings from the northern hill country, the Arabah, and the western foothills. Despite the overwhelming odds, Joshua's forces, strengthened by God's promise of victory, engage the enemy at the waters of Merom. The Israelites achieve a decisive victory, capturing and burning Hazor, the head of all these kingdoms (Joshua 11:10-11). The text emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the conquest: "Joshua captured all these kings and their cities and struck them down with the sword, devoting them to destruction, as Moses the servant of the LORD had commanded" (Joshua 11:12).

List of Conquered Kings

Joshua 12 provides a detailed list of the thirty-one kings defeated by the Israelites. This list serves as a testament to the thoroughness of the conquest and the fulfillment of God's promises. The enumeration begins with the kings east of the Jordan, defeated by Moses, including Sihon, king of the Amorites, and Og, king of Bashan. It continues with the kings west of the Jordan, conquered under Joshua's leadership. The list underscores the divine mandate and the comprehensive nature of the conquest, as each king and territory represents a step toward the establishment of Israel in the Promised Land.

Theological Significance

The conquest of the Canaanite kings is not merely a historical account but carries profound theological implications. It illustrates God's judgment against the idolatry and wickedness of the Canaanites, as well as His faithfulness to Israel. The victories are attributed to divine intervention and obedience to God's commands, highlighting the importance of faith and reliance on God's power. The narrative serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the necessity of holiness and obedience among His people.

In summary, the account of the conquered kings in the Book of Joshua reflects the fulfillment of God's promises, the execution of divine judgment, and the establishment of Israel in the land of Canaan. The narrative underscores the themes of faith, obedience, and the sovereignty of God in the unfolding of His redemptive plan.