The Israelite Army

Israel is a nation with a long history of war.

After their departure from their slavers in Egypt, the Israelites’ God, Yahweh, promised them the then corrupted land of Canaan as a new home. Though separated into twelve tribes, the Israelites were unified in their conquest of the Canaanites, and afterwards, Israel divided the land between them. In the following years, Israel still fought small battles led by “Judges”, but the large standing army of Israel soon came to an end.

Eventually, Israel grew tired of depending on Yahweh and soon found themselves under someone else’s rule. They demanded a King who would lead them like other nations. The last Judge, Samuel, honored Israel’s wishes and anointed Saul as king. All the while, Yahweh had plans of His own.

During Saul’s reign, the ancient rival of Israel, the Philistines, massed an army planning to wipe out these filthy hill tribesmen. Though the new army of Israel had seen some victory, it was still was vastly undertrained, outclassed, and woefully unprepared. Swords, shields, and armor were not unheard of in the Israelite ranks, but they were usually wielded by the wealthy, so most were armed with farming tools and rusty swords. Yet, despite the odds, they marched off to the valley of Elah to hold off another Philistine invasion. If they succeed again, their families might be able to live in peace for a few more months. But against the Philistine champion, Goliath, there doesn’t seem to be much hope.

If they don’t find their courage soon, all of Israel will be destroyed..