Hostage
Summary
Persons held as security for agreements or treaties, a common ancient practice mentioned occasionally in Scripture.
☩Biblical Reference
After King Jehoash of Israel defeated Amaziah of Judah, he took hostages along with temple treasures and palace gold (2 Kings 14:14; 2 Chronicles 25:24). These hostages guaranteed Judah's compliance with the terms of defeat. The practice was common throughout the ancient Near East, with royal sons often serving as hostages to ensure their father's loyalty.
