Topical Bible: Journey of Israel Through The Desert: To the Mountains of Abarim: Og Conquered

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◄ Journey of Israel Through The Desert: To the Mountains of Abarim: Og Conquered ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The journey of the Israelites through the desert, as recorded in the Pentateuch, is a significant period in biblical history, marked by divine guidance, miraculous provisions, and military conquests. One of the notable events during this journey is the conquest of Og, king of Bashan, as the Israelites approached the Mountains of Abarim.

Context and Background

The Israelites, having been delivered from slavery in Egypt, wandered in the wilderness for forty years due to their disobedience and lack of faith. As they neared the end of this period, they began to move towards the Promised Land, Canaan. The journey took them through various territories, where they encountered different nations and kings.

The Mountains of Abarim

The Mountains of Abarim are a mountain range east of the Jordan River, offering a vantage point over the land of Canaan. This range includes Mount Nebo, from which Moses would later view the Promised Land before his death (Deuteronomy 32:49). The Israelites' approach to these mountains marked a significant phase in their journey, as they prepared to enter Canaan.

Conquest of Og, King of Bashan

As the Israelites journeyed towards the Mountains of Abarim, they encountered resistance from the Amorite kings, Sihon and Og. The conquest of Og is detailed in Numbers 21:33-35 and Deuteronomy 3:1-11. Og, the king of Bashan, was a formidable opponent, noted for his giant stature and strong cities.

The Berean Standard Bible recounts this encounter: "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 fight 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. And they took possession of his land" (Numbers 21:33-35).

Significance of the Conquest

The defeat of Og was significant for several reasons. Firstly, it demonstrated God's continued faithfulness and power in fulfilling His promises to Israel. Despite the formidable nature of their enemies, God assured victory, reinforcing His role as the divine warrior and protector of Israel.

Secondly, the conquest of Og and the subsequent possession of his land provided the Israelites with a strategic advantage. The territory of Bashan was fertile and well-fortified, offering a stronghold for the Israelites as they prepared to enter Canaan.

Lastly, the victory over Og served as a morale booster for the Israelites. It was a tangible sign of God's favor and a reminder of His covenant promises. The defeat of such a powerful king would have instilled confidence in the Israelites as they faced the challenges ahead in the conquest of Canaan.

Theological Implications

The narrative of Og's defeat underscores several theological themes central to the biblical narrative. It highlights God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to deliver His people against overwhelming odds. The event also emphasizes the importance of obedience and trust in God's promises, as the Israelites' success was contingent upon their reliance on divine guidance.

Furthermore, the conquest of Og serves as a typological foreshadowing of the ultimate victory of God's people over their spiritual enemies. Just as Israel triumphed over physical giants through God's intervention, believers are assured of victory over spiritual adversaries through faith in Christ.

In summary, the journey of Israel through the desert to the Mountains of Abarim and the conquest of Og is a testament to God's faithfulness, power, and the unfolding of His redemptive plan for His chosen people.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Numbers 21:33-35
And they turned and went up by the way of Bashan: and Og the king of Bashan went out against them, he, and all his people, to the battle at Edrei.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Deuteronomy 3:1-11
Then we turned, and went up the way to Bashan: and Og the king of Bashan came out against us, he and all his people, to battle at Edrei.
Torrey's Topical Textbook