In the biblical narrative, the term "surrounding peoples" often refers to the various nations and ethnic groups that lived in proximity to the Israelites. These groups played significant roles in the history of Israel, influencing its culture, religion, and politics. The interactions between the Israelites and these peoples are a recurring theme throughout the Old Testament, highlighting both conflict and cooperation.

Canaanites: The Canaanites were the original inhabitants of the land promised to Abraham and his descendants. They were a collection of city-states and tribes, including the Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites. The Israelites were commanded to drive them out of the land due to their idolatrous practices. In Deuteronomy 7:1-2 , God instructs Israel, "When the LORD your God brings you into the land you are entering to possess, and He drives out before you many nations—the Hittites, Girgashites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites, seven nations larger and stronger than you—and when the LORD your God has delivered them over to you and you have defeated them, then you must devote them to complete destruction."

Philistines: The Philistines were one of Israel's most persistent adversaries, known for their advanced military technology, including iron weapons. They occupied the coastal region of Canaan and frequently clashed with the Israelites. The account of David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17) is one of the most famous accounts of conflict between Israel and the Philistines. Judges 13:1 notes, "Again the Israelites did evil in the sight of the LORD, so He delivered them into the hands of the Philistines for forty years."

Moabites and Ammonites: Descendants of Lot, the Moabites and Ammonites were often in conflict with Israel. Despite their kinship, these nations were frequently hostile. The Moabite king Balak sought to curse Israel through the prophet Balaam (Numbers 22-24). However, Ruth, a Moabitess, is a notable exception, as she became an ancestor of King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ.

Edomites: The Edomites were descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother. Their territory was located to the south of Israel. The relationship between Israel and Edom was complex, marked by both kinship and enmity. In Obadiah 1:10 , the prophet declares, "Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever."

Arameans: The Arameans, or Syrians, were located to the northeast of Israel. They frequently engaged in warfare with the northern kingdom of Israel. The prophet Elisha performed many miracles in the context of Aramean-Israelite relations, including the healing of Naaman, an Aramean commander (2 Kings 5).

Amalekites: The Amalekites were a nomadic tribe that frequently harassed the Israelites. They were the first to attack Israel after the Exodus (Exodus 17:8-16). God commanded their complete destruction due to their persistent hostility, a task that King Saul failed to fully accomplish (1 Samuel 15).

Assyrians and Babylonians: These powerful empires played crucial roles in the history of Israel and Judah. The Assyrians conquered the northern kingdom of Israel in 722 BC, leading to the dispersion of the ten tribes. The Babylonians later destroyed Jerusalem and the Temple in 586 BC, resulting in the Babylonian exile. These events were seen as divine judgment for Israel's unfaithfulness.

Persians: The Persian Empire, under King Cyrus, allowed the Jewish exiles to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the Temple (Ezra 1:1-4). This marked a significant period of restoration and renewal for the Jewish people.

Throughout the biblical narrative, the surrounding peoples serve as instruments of both judgment and blessing, reflecting the sovereignty of God over the nations and His unfolding plan for His chosen people.