1 Kings 20:17
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).
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