MPV Commentary

Adoni-bezek Justly Requited.

5-6 Adoni-bezek was a ruler in the region of Judah, about twelve miles south of Jerusalem. He was taken prisoner after being defeated in battle and subjected to a severe punishment: his thumbs and great toes were cut off. This brutal treatment was not uncommon among ancient warriors, as it disabled prisoners from engaging in future military service. However, this particular act of mutilation was likely intended by the Israelites as an act of retributive justice, reflecting Adoni-bezek's own atrocities.

7 The seventy kings mentioned here refer to rulers of various cities and towns in Canaan. It is possible that there were even more such rulers before Adoni-bezek rose to power through his insatiable ambition.

8 The Judahites had previously fought against Jerusalem and taken control of it, bringing Adoni-bezek back with them as a prisoner. This public display of punishment was likely intended to inspire fear throughout the region. Similar incursions were made into other parts of Judah's inheritance (Jud 1:9-11). The story of Caleb's acquisition of Hebron is also repeated here (Jos 15:16-19).

16 The Kenites, descended from Moses' father-in-law, joined forces with the Judahites and went up from the city of palm trees. This city was likely En-gedi or Hazezon-tamar, a region known for its palm groves. They had previously accompanied the Israelites to Canaan (Nu 10:32) and were now part of an expedition against Arad in southern Canaan (Nu 21:1). After conquering that district, some Kenites settled there while others migrated north.

17-29 Judah joined forces with his brother Simeon to aid in the war against neighboring tribes. Together they conquered Zephath and Hormah, destroying them as part of an earlier vow (Nu 21:2). They also took Gaza, Askelon, and Ekron, but the Philistines soon regained control of these cities.

19 The Lord was with Judah, granting them success in battle, yet they were unable to drive out the inhabitants of the valley. Their failure can be attributed to a lack of trust in God's promise, leading to fear of the enemy's iron chariots (Jos 11:4-9).

21 The children of Benjamin failed to expel the Jebusites from Jerusalem, despite Judah having previously driven them out of their part of the city. The border between the two tribes ran through Jerusalem, resulting in close intermingling with native populations.