דברי הימים ב, פרק כ׳, פסוק י״א

The Israelites face a shocking betrayal from neighboring nations, prompting a desperate plea to God for justice. The people cry out against the glaring injustice and ingratitude of their enemies, expressing deep astonishment at their behavior. In the past, the Israelites had spared these very nations, showing them kindness and intentionally avoiding bringing them any harm. Yet, instead of remembering this mercy, the enemies now choose to repay that goodness with evil [ביאור שטיינזלץ, מלבי״ם].

This hostile response is viewed as a twisted form of payment [מצודת ציון]. It highlights a painful absurdity: is an invasion the proper reward for the past kindness they received? Faced with such clear injustice and profound ungratefulness, the people turn directly to God, asking Him to intervene and establish true justice [מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם].

Furthermore, the enemies are attempting to drive the Israelites out of their territory. The people argue that this land is not merely a region they conquered, but a direct inheritance given to them by God Himself. Because the land was placed in their hands directly by God, the invading nations have absolutely no legal right or valid claim to challenge their ownership and force them out of their rightful home [רש״י].