1Ki 20:17-21 | TNotes | STEP | 20:17 first contingent: Ahab apparently sent this small squad to test the enemy. Surprise attacks in the ancient Near East often divided the attacking forces into assault groups designed to launch a pincer movement against the enemy (Judg 7:16 ; 1 Sam 11:11 ), to lure the opposing forces into an ambush (Josh 8:15-22 ), or to draw the enemy to a spot where the attacking army enjoyed a superior position (Judg 4:14-16 ; 5:19-21 ).

bJudg 7:16►

c1 Sam 11:11►

dJosh 8:15-22►

eJudg 4:14-16►

f5:19-21►

g20:20-22►

‏ 1 Kings 20:17-21

20:17 ^a first contingent: Ahab apparently sent this small squad to test the enemy. Surprise attacks in the ancient Near East often divided the attacking forces into assault groups designed to launch a pincer movement against the enemy (Judg 7:16 ^b; 1 Sam 11:11 ^c), to lure the opposing forces into an ambush (Josh 8:15-22 ^d), or to draw the enemy to a spot where the attacking army enjoyed a superior position (Judg 4:14-16 ^e; 5:19-21 ^f).
Summary for 1Kgs 20:20-22: 20:20-22 ^g Horses and chariots were a key asset in ancient warfare. Ahab’s destruction of the major portion of Ben-hadad’s striking power was essential to guard against a future incursion. Still, God’s prophet warned that the king of Aram would return.

• next spring: Late spring and early summer were standard seasons for warfare in the ancient Near East; the forces could count on good weather and a supply of grain from the early harvest.