This book investigates the biblical attitudes towards the use of mercenaries in ancient Judah. Although mercenaries are viewed negatively in modern warfare, it has been unclear if this sentiment was shared in the ancient world. After compiling and discussing the evidence for the use of mercenaries in Judah, Eric Barrios interprets biblical texts that refer to mercenaries and other marginalized peoples to provide a balanced and informed understanding of the social and religious attitudes towards the use of mercenaries in Judah and the broader ancient world.
