The Alliance of Kings refers to various coalitions formed by monarchs in the biblical narrative, often in opposition to the Israelites or as part of the broader geopolitical landscape of the ancient Near East. These alliances are significant in understanding the historical and theological context of the biblical text, as they often serve as a backdrop for God's intervention and the unfolding of His covenantal promises to Israel.

1. The Five Kings of the Amorites:

One of the most notable alliances is found in the Book of Joshua, where five Amorite kings unite against the Gibeonites, who had made a peace treaty with Israel. This coalition included the kings of Jerusalem, Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachish, and Eglon. Joshua 10:5 states, "So the five kings of the Amorites—the kings of Jerusalem, Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachish, and Eglon—joined forces, advanced with all their armies, besieged Gibeon, and fought against it."

This alliance was significant as it prompted Joshua to lead the Israelites in a miraculous victory, where God intervened by casting down large hailstones and causing the sun to stand still (Joshua 10:11-13). The defeat of these kings demonstrated God's power and His commitment to Israel, reinforcing the divine mandate for the conquest of Canaan.

2. The Northern Kings:

Another significant alliance is described in Joshua 11, where Jabin, king of Hazor, forms a coalition with several northern kings to oppose Israel. This alliance included kings from the northern hill country, the Arabah south of Kinnereth, the western foothills, and Naphoth Dor on the west. Joshua 11:4 records, "They came out with all their armies, a multitude as numerous as the sand on the seashore, along with a vast number of horses and chariots."

Despite the formidable size of this coalition, Joshua led the Israelites to victory, as God assured him of success. The defeat of the northern kings further solidified Israel's control over the Promised Land and underscored the theme of divine sovereignty and faithfulness.

3. The Coalition Against Israel in the Time of David:

During King David's reign, alliances were also formed against Israel. One such instance is found in 2 Samuel 10, where the Ammonites hired Aramean forces from Beth Rehob, Zobah, Maacah, and Tob to fight against David. This coalition was ultimately defeated by David's forces, as recorded in 2 Samuel 10:18 : "But the Arameans fled before Israel, and David killed seven hundred of their charioteers and forty thousand foot soldiers. He also struck down Shobach the commander of their army, who died there."

This victory not only demonstrated David's military prowess but also highlighted God's continued favor upon Israel, as David was a man after God's own heart (1 Samuel 13:14).

4. The Kings of the Earth in Eschatological Context:

In the prophetic and eschatological literature, alliances of kings are often depicted as opposing God's ultimate plan. Revelation 17:12-14 describes ten kings who will give their power and authority to the beast, making war against the Lamb. "They will wage war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will triumph over them because He is Lord of lords and King of kings—and with Him will be His called, chosen, and faithful followers."

This future alliance serves as a reminder of the ultimate victory of Christ over all earthly powers, fulfilling the prophetic vision of God's kingdom established on earth.

Throughout the biblical narrative, the alliances of kings serve as a testament to the recurring theme of human opposition to God's purposes and the ultimate triumph of His will. These coalitions, whether historical or prophetic, underscore the sovereignty of God and His unwavering commitment to His covenant people.