# Moses and Amalek explained — Olney Hymns

> Chapter companion for Olney Hymns by John Newton.

## What happens

This poem by Newton reflects on the battle between Israel and Amalek, emphasizing that victory comes not from military might but from prayer and dependence on God. It draws a parallel to the need for intercessors in the poet's own time, hoping for a hidden remnant who pray for the nation's peace.

## Themes in this chapter

### Prayer and Dependence on God

The poem emphasizes that victory comes through prayer, not military strength.

### Divine Providence and Guidance

God is the true defender of Israel, and the poem calls for national reliance on His providence.

### Grace and Unmerited Favor

The hidden remnant's prayers are seen as a means of grace for the nation.

## Character check-ins

### Moses

Lifts his hands in prayer during the battle, symbolizing intercession and dependence on God.

### Joshua

Leads the armed bands of Israel into physical warfare.

### God

The ultimate defender of Israel, who grants success through prayer.

### The Narrator

Reflects on the need for prayer and the hidden remnant who intercede for the nation.

## Key lines

> While Joshua led the armed bands Of Israel forth to war; Moses apart with lifted hands Engaged in humble pray’r.

As Joshua led the soldiers into battle, Moses stood apart, raising his hands in humble prayer.

_Highlights the contrast between physical warfare and spiritual intercession._

> The armed bands had quickly fail’d, And perish’d in the fight, If Moses’ pray’r had not prevail’d To put the foes to flight.

The soldiers would have quickly been defeated and killed if Moses' prayer had not prevailed to rout the enemy.

_Emphasizes that prayer is the decisive factor in victory._

> We now of fleets and armies vaunt, And ships and men prepare; But men like Moses most we want, To save the state by pray’r.

We boast of our fleets and armies and prepare ships and soldiers, but what we most need are people like Moses to save the nation through prayer.

_Applies the lesson to the poet's contemporary situation._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters/66-moses-and-amalek
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters