Battle

/BAT-ul/

Summary

Armed conflict between opposing forces, frequently described in Scripture with the understanding that the Lord determines the outcome.

☩Battle Practices

Israelite soldiers formed solid squares of a hundred men, with archers on the flanks and slingers in the rear until ordered forward. Battle was often joined with shouting and the blowing of trumpets. Before major engagements, soldiers were fed liberally and their weapons inspected.

Key verses:Judges 7:201 Samuel 17:202 Chronicles 13:12

☩Prayer Before Battle

Godly kings sought the Lord before battle, recognizing that victory came from Him, not military might. Asa and Jehoshaphat are notable examples of leaders who called upon God when facing overwhelming enemies.

Key verses:2 Chronicles 14:112 Chronicles 20:3-12

☩The Battle Belongs to the Lord

Scripture repeatedly emphasizes that the battle belongs to the Lord. Human strength and military wisdom cannot guarantee victory; it is the Lord who gives the victory or brings defeat as He determines.

Key verses:1 Samuel 17:47Proverbs 21:31Psalm 20:7

Related Verses173 mentions

1 Samuel· 24 verses

4:1 4:2 7:10 8:20 13:22

2 Samuel· 21 verses

1:4 1:25 2:17 3:30 10:8

1 Chronicles· 18 verses

5:20 7:11 7:40 10:3 11:13

2 Chronicles· 16 verses

13:3 13:12 13:14 14:10 14:11

References

1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Battle," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. I (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
2.Andrew Robert Fausset, "Battle," in The Englishman's Critical and Expository Bible Cyclopædia (Hodder & Stoughton, 1878).