And Benhadad hearkened unto king Asa, and sent the captains of his armies against the cities of Israel; and they smote Ijon, and Dan, and Abelmaim, and all the store cities of Naphtali.
Ben-Hadad listened to King Asa and sent his army commanders to attack the cities of Israel. They struck Ijon, Dan, Abel-Maim, and all the supply cities in the territory of Naphtali.
This verse shows Ben-Hadad, the Syrian king, responding to Asa's request by attacking northern Israeli cities, forcing Israel to withdraw from their conflict with Judah.
📚 Historical Context
In the divided kingdom period after Solomon's reign, King Asa of Judah faced military threats from King Baasha of Israel, who was building fortifications to encircle Judah. Asa responded by forming an alliance with Benhadad, the king of Aram (Syria), using temple treasures as a bribe to persuade him to attack Israel. This led Benhadad to send his forces, resulting in the conquest of several northern cities of Israel as detailed in this verse.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.