Topical Encyclopedia The term "Massacre of Bashan" refers to the biblical events associated with the conquest of the region of Bashan by the Israelites under the leadership of Moses. This event is primarily recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in the books of Numbers and Deuteronomy. Bashan was a fertile and strategically significant area located east of the Jordan River, known for its strong cities and formidable warriors.Biblical Context The conquest of Bashan is part of the larger narrative of the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land. After their exodus from Egypt and years of wandering in the wilderness, the Israelites, under divine command, began to take possession of the lands east of the Jordan River. The region of Bashan was ruled by King Og, one of the last of the Rephaim, a race of giants mentioned in the biblical text. Scriptural Account The account of the massacre is detailed in Numbers 21:33-35 and Deuteronomy 3:1-11. In Numbers 21:33-35 , it is written: "Then they turned and went up along the road to Bashan, and Og king of Bashan came out against them with his whole army to the battle at Edrei. But the LORD said to Moses, 'Do not fear him, for I have delivered him into your hand, along with all his people and his land. Do to him as you did to Sihon king of the Amorites, who lived in Heshbon.' So they struck him down, along with his sons and his whole army, until no remnant was left to him. And they took possession of his land." In Deuteronomy 3:1-11 , the narrative is expanded, providing additional details about the battle and the subsequent occupation of the land. The text emphasizes the completeness of the victory and the divine assurance given to Moses: "Then we turned and went up the road to Bashan, and Og king of Bashan came out against us with his whole army to the battle at Edrei. But the LORD said to me, 'Do not fear him, for I have delivered him into your hand, along with his whole army and his land. Do to him as you did to Sihon king of the Amorites, who lived in Heshbon.' So the LORD our God also delivered Og king of Bashan and his whole army into our hands. We struck them down until no survivor was left. At that time we captured all his cities; there was not a city we did not take from them—sixty cities, the whole region of Argob, the kingdom of Og in Bashan. All these cities were fortified with high walls and gates and bars, and there were also many unwalled villages. We completely destroyed them, as we had done to Sihon king of Heshbon, destroying every city—men, women, and children. But all the livestock and the plunder of the cities we carried off for ourselves." Theological Significance From a theological perspective, the massacre of Bashan is often viewed as a demonstration of God's sovereignty and faithfulness to His covenant promises. The victory over Og and the conquest of Bashan are seen as acts of divine judgment against the Canaanite nations, who were characterized by idolatry and moral corruption. The complete destruction of the inhabitants is interpreted as a means of purifying the land for the Israelites, ensuring that they would not be led astray by the pagan practices of the previous inhabitants. Historical and Cultural Context Bashan was renowned for its fertile lands and strong cities, making it a valuable acquisition for the Israelites. The region's king, Og, is described as a giant, emphasizing the formidable nature of the enemy. The biblical narrative highlights the miraculous nature of the victory, attributing it to divine intervention rather than mere military prowess. Legacy and Interpretation The events at Bashan have been the subject of much discussion and interpretation throughout history. Some view the narrative as a literal historical account, while others see it as a theological allegory emphasizing God's power and justice. The account of Bashan serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience to divine commands and the consequences of opposing God's will. In summary, the Massacre of Bashan is a significant event in the biblical narrative, illustrating the themes of divine judgment, covenant fulfillment, and the establishment of Israel in the Promised Land. Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 3:6And we utterly destroyed them, as we did to Sihon king of Heshbon, utterly destroying the men, women, and children, of every city. Nave's Topical Index Library Waiting Only Upon God The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria Resources What does the Bible say about snitching / being a snitch? | GotQuestions.orgHow can I recognize and understand biblical symbolism? | GotQuestions.org Who was Athaliah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Massacre: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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