MPV Commentary

Ben-hadad, the king of Syria, was the son of Ben-hadad who had previously raided the northern towns of Galilee during the reign of Baasha (1Ki 15:20). He was joined by thirty-two other kings in a confederacy, likely consisting of tributary princes. In ancient times, Syrian and Phoenician kings ruled over single cities and were independent of one another, except when a dominant city like Damascus gained ascendancy. The Syrian army encamped at the gates of Samaria and besieged the town.

Ben-hadad sent a message to Ahab during the siege, demanding that he surrender his silver and gold (1Ki 20:2-12). Ahab responded with a submissive answer, probably thinking it was just an exaction of tribute. However, Ben-hadad repeated his demand with increasing insolence, but Ahab still seemed willing to yield. It appears that the voice of Ahab's subjects was raised against this arrogant claim, prompting him to show more spirit.

Ahab began to resist by abandoning his formal address and giving a dry, sarcastic hint to Ben-hadad, suggesting he should not boast until victory was won. Enraged by Ahab's defiance, Ben-hadad ordered the immediate sack of the city while he was drinking with other kings in their pavilions, which were temporary structures made from branches and brushwood.

Ben-hadad then instructed his army to prepare for battle, ordering them to set themselves in array around the city.