What is the context?
The northern king’s sons gather forces and renew the conflict. One advances forcefully, prompting the king of the South to fight back.
The South wins a great victory and the king becomes proud. Yet the victory does not secure a lasting triumph. After some years, the North returns with a larger army and more supplies.
The passage follows successive reversals. Numbers, confidence and a moment of military success do not give either kingdom lasting control. The people in the path of these campaigns continue to face the consequences of their rulers’ rivalry.
How is this passage commonly understood?
The USCCB notes connect these campaigns with the battles of Raphia and Paneas. Henry emphasizes the fragile and changing nature of worldly power throughout this part of the chapter.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.