So Joshua came, and all the people of war with him, against them by the waters of Merom suddenly; and they fell upon them.
God hardened these northern kings to begin the war themselves, so that Israel would be justified beyond exception in destroying them. Sinners bring ruin upon their own heads; the Lord will be vindicated, and they alone shall bear the blame forever.
AI summary
Commenting on Joshua 11:1-9
So Joshua came, and all the people of war with him, against them,.... Being encouraged by the Lord, they set out with Joshua at the head of them, to fight the kings and their forces. It is highly probable that these were not the whole body of armed men in the camp of Israel, but a select company Joshua took of them, and who would...
By the waters of Merom suddenly - Joshua, being apprised of this grand confederation, lost no time, but marched to meet them; and before they could have supposed him at hand, fell suddenly upon them, and put them to the rout.