Bible Figure
Adonizedek
male human biblical figure in Joshua 10:1-3, Amorite King of Jerusalem
Adonizedek was the Amorite king of Jerusalem who organized a coalition against Gibeon after its treaty with Israel.
Biography
Joshua 10 says Adonizedek king of Jerusalem became alarmed when Gibeon made peace with Joshua. He summoned the kings of Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachish, and Eglon to join him in attacking Gibeon. The Gibeonites appealed to Joshua, who marched to their aid. God threw the coalition into confusion, and the five kings hid in a cave at Makkedah. After the battle Joshua had them brought out, used them in a public victory demonstration, and executed them.
Biblical Significance
Adonizedek appears in the conquest narrative as leader of a southern coalition resisting Israel. His defeat is presented as part of God's giving the land's opposing kings into Israel's hand.