It came to pass after this also, [that] the children of Moab, and the children of Ammon, and with them [other] beside the Ammonites, came against Jehoshaphat to battle.
Ver. 1. It came to pass after this also.] After Jehoshaphat's great care to reform and set all to right throughout his kingdom, 2Ch 19:4-11 for his further trial, and exercise of his faith, these enemies - moved with envy, doubtless, at his growing greatness, and stirred up by the Syrians, against whom he had taken part with Ahab lately - were turned loose upon him. The best are not to account it strange when they "fall into divers temptations"; but to consider of this golden chapter, wherein (res multae et magnae continentur, saith Lavater) are contained many great matters; neither is there any chapter in this whole book whereout we may learn more.
And with them other beside the Ammonites,] viz., The Syrians, 2Ch 20:2 and the Edomites. 2Ch 20:10 The Amalekites, say some of the Hebrews; as others the Hamenins.
Came against Jehoshaphat to battle.] Not once giving him warning by their heralds or otherwise, a but thinking to surprise him, though he was never unprovided. See 2 Chronicles 17:17,18 .
a Id fuit contra ius gentium. It was be done against the law of the nations.