is the hill of Bashan
Bashan was a region known for its fertile land and mighty oaks, located east of the Jordan River. The "hill of Bashan" refers to the mountainous area within this region. Historically, Bashan was a place of great significance, often associated with strength and abundance. The Hebrew word for "hill" here can also mean "mountain," indicating a place of prominence. This phrase highlights the grandeur and importance of Bashan, suggesting that it is a place worthy of being called a "mountain of God."

a mountain of many peaks
This phrase emphasizes the majesty and complexity of Mount Bashan. The Hebrew word for "many peaks" can also be translated as "ridges" or "summits," indicating a landscape that is varied and impressive. The imagery of multiple peaks suggests a place of grandeur and awe, reflecting the multifaceted nature of God's creation. It also implies a sense of challenge and adventure, as many peaks would require effort and determination to explore fully.

is Mount Bashan
By reiterating "Mount Bashan," the verse underscores its significance. In biblical times, mountains were often seen as places of divine encounter and revelation. Mount Bashan, with its many peaks, serves as a metaphor for the greatness and mystery of God. It invites believers to reflect on the majesty of God's creation and His presence in the world. The repetition of the name "Bashan" reinforces its importance and calls the faithful to recognize the divine hand in the natural world.

(15) The hill of God is . . .--Better,

"Mountain of God, mount Basan;

Mountain of peaks, mount Basan."

Even if the range of Hermon were not included, the basalt (basanite, probably from the locality) ranges, always rising up before the eyes of those looking eastward from Palestine, must have been doubly impressive from their superior height, and the contrast of their bold and rugged outlines with the monotonous rounded forms of the limestone hills of Judaea. And it is quite possible that, in a poetic allusion, the term "mountains of Bashan" might include all the heights to the eastward of Jordan, stretching southward as well as northward. There would then be an additional propriety in their introduction as jealously watching the march of Israel from Sinai to take possession of the promised land. Why these trans-Jordanic ranges should be styled "mountains of God" has been much discussed. Some explain the term to denote ancient seats of religious worship; others take it simply as a general term expressing grandeur--"a ridge of god-like greatness."