1Ki 20:17 | 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►

‏ 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).