Foray
Culture & SocietyWhat is the meaning of Foray in the Bible?
A foray denotes a sudden, brief military incursion or raid, distinct from prolonged campaigns, as illustrated in 2 Samuel 3:22 where Joab leads a raiding party.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding forays clarifies the tactical diversity of ancient warfare, showing how biblical narratives distinguish between decisive raids and total war, thereby enriching the interpretation of military strategies in historical accounts.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Ancient Cultural Lens: Avoid applying 21st-century Western assumptions to Foray. Examine how first-century or Near Eastern listeners understood this practice within their daily social dynamics.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Foray in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Foray clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
2 Samuel 3:22
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Foray." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/foray/