1 Kings 20:18
And he said, Whether they be come out for peace, take them aliue: or whether they be come out for warre, take them aliue. 1 Kings 20:18 (KJV)
In this verse we hear a statement made by Ben‑Hadad, king of Aram (Syria), to his own soldiers. Chapter 20 of 1 Kings records the confrontation between King Ahab of Israel and Ben‑Hadad. Ben‑Hadad and his army had previously attacked Samaria, the capital of Israel, and had laid siege to the city. In response, God sent a prophet to deliver a message to Ahab, assuring him that He would deliver the enemy into his hand.
Focusing on verse 18, Ben‑Hadad instructs his troops to take the approaching Israelite forces alive, whether they come out in pursuit of peace or in preparation for war. This instruction reveals Ben‑Hadad’s strategic thinking. By capturing the Israelites alive, he aimed to gain an advantage: if they were coming out for peace, it would allow him to negotiate favourable terms or weaken their military strength; if they were coming out for war, capturing them would prevent them from regrouping and fighting back effectively.
The passage emphasizes the importance of discernment and the value of taking advantage of opportunities. Ahab, as the king and leader of Israel, needed to make wise decisions to safeguard his people and protect his kingdom. The prophet’s earlier advice to Ahab in verse 13 guided him in understanding God’s plan for deliverance.
From a broader perspective, the chapter highlights God’s involvement in the affairs of nations and His willingness to guide His people, even in times of conflict. God sent a prophet to provide strategic counsel to Ahab, demonstrating His care for Israel and His desire to ensure their well‑being. The narrative continues with accounts of battles, strategic moves, and the eventual defeat of Ben‑Hadad’s army, underscoring the prophetic assurance of victory.
In summary, 1 Kings 20:18 reminds us of the significance of discernment and making wise decisions. It portrays Ben‑Hadad’s instruction to capture the Israelite forces alive, regardless of their intentions, and it reveals God’s active role in guiding and protecting His people during external threats.
