The Victory at Makkedah is a significant event recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Joshua. This event is part of the larger narrative of the Israelite conquest of Canaan under the leadership of Joshua, following the death of Moses. The account is found in Joshua 10, where the Israelites achieve a decisive victory over a coalition of Amorite kings.

Context and Background

The backdrop to the victory at Makkedah involves the Gibeonite deception, where the Gibeonites, fearing the advancing Israelites, tricked Joshua into making a peace treaty with them (Joshua 9). When the surrounding Amorite kings learned of this alliance, they perceived it as a threat and formed a coalition to attack Gibeon. The five kings involved were from Jerusalem, Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachish, and Eglon (Joshua 10:3-5).

Divine Intervention and Battle

Upon hearing of the attack on Gibeon, Joshua and the Israelite army marched overnight from Gilgal to come to their aid. The Lord assured Joshua of victory, saying, "Do not be afraid of them, for I have delivered them into your hand. Not one of them shall stand against you" (Joshua 10:8). This divine promise underscores the theological theme of God's sovereignty and faithfulness to His covenant people.

The battle was marked by miraculous events. As the Israelites engaged the Amorite coalition, the Lord threw the enemy into confusion, and as they fled, He sent down large hailstones from the sky, killing more of the enemy than the Israelites did with the sword (Joshua 10:10-11). Furthermore, Joshua famously prayed for the sun to stand still over Gibeon and the moon over the Valley of Aijalon, prolonging the day until the Israelites secured victory (Joshua 10:12-13). This extraordinary event is described as unparalleled, where "the LORD listened to the voice of a man" (Joshua 10:14).

The Defeat of the Amorite Kings

Following the miraculous victory, the five Amorite kings fled and hid in a cave at Makkedah. Joshua ordered the cave to be sealed with large stones and guarded until the battle was fully won. Afterward, the kings were brought out, and Joshua instructed his commanders to place their feet on the necks of the kings, symbolizing complete subjugation and victory (Joshua 10:24). The kings were then executed and hung on trees until evening, after which they were thrown back into the cave, which was sealed again (Joshua 10:26-27).

Significance

The victory at Makkedah is emblematic of God's direct intervention in the affairs of Israel, demonstrating His power and commitment to His promises. It also serves as a testament to Joshua's leadership and the importance of faith and obedience in achieving God's purposes. The event is a pivotal moment in the conquest narrative, showcasing the fulfillment of God's promise to give the land of Canaan to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.