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 pivotal moments in this journey is the conquest of Sihon, king of the Amorites, as the Israelites approached the Mountains of Abarim.
Context and BackgroundAfter their exodus from Egypt, the Israelites wandered in the wilderness for forty years due to their disobedience and lack of faith (
Numbers 14:33-34). As they neared the end of this period, they began to move towards the Promised Land, Canaan. The journey to the Mountains of Abarim represents a critical phase in their travels, as it brought them into direct conflict with the Amorite kingdoms east of the Jordan River.
The Approach to the Amorite TerritoryThe Israelites, under the leadership of Moses, sought passage through the land of the Amorites. Moses sent messengers to Sihon, king of the Amorites, with a peaceful request: "Let us pass through your land. We will not turn aside into any field or vineyard, nor drink water from any well. We will travel the King's Highway until we have passed through your territory" (
Numbers 21:22). This request was consistent with the Israelites' earlier approach to Edom, where they sought peaceful passage (
Numbers 20:14-17).
Sihon's Refusal and the BattleSihon, however, refused to allow the Israelites passage through his land. Instead, he gathered his people and went out to confront Israel in battle at Jahaz. The biblical account records that the Lord delivered Sihon and his people into the hands of Israel. "But Sihon would not let Israel pass through his territory. Instead, he gathered his whole army and marched out to the wilderness to confront Israel. When he came to Jahaz, he fought against Israel. And Israel put him to the sword and took possession of his land from the Arnon to the Jabbok, but only up to the border of the Ammonites, because it was fortified" (
Numbers 21:23-24).
Significance of the ConquestThe defeat of Sihon was a significant victory for the Israelites. It marked the beginning of their conquest of the Transjordan region and demonstrated God's continued faithfulness and power in fulfilling His promises to the descendants of Abraham. The victory over Sihon also served as a morale booster for the Israelites, reinforcing their confidence in God's provision and protection as they prepared to enter the Promised Land.
Settlement and Allocation of the Conquered LandFollowing the conquest, the Israelites took possession of the Amorite cities, including Heshbon, which became a key city in the region. The land was later allocated to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh as part of their inheritance (
Numbers 32:33). This allocation was in accordance with the divine instructions given to Moses and served as a precursor to the division of the land of Canaan among the tribes of Israel.
Theological ImplicationsThe conquest of Sihon underscores several theological themes central to the narrative of the Israelites' journey. It highlights God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to fulfill His covenant promises despite human opposition. The event also serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience and faith in God's plan, as the Israelites' success was contingent upon their reliance on divine guidance and strength.
ConclusionThe journey to the Mountains of Abarim and the conquest of Sihon represent a crucial chapter in the Israelites' wilderness wanderings. This event not only facilitated their entry into the Promised Land but also reinforced the themes of divine faithfulness, provision, and the fulfillment of God's promises to His chosen people.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Numbers 21:23-32And Sihon would not suffer Israel to pass through his border: but Sihon gathered all his people together, and went out against Israel into the wilderness: and he came to Jahaz, and fought against Israel.
Torrey's Topical TextbookDeuteronomy 2:32-36
Then Sihon came out against us, he and all his people, to fight at Jahaz.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Resources
Who was Ishmael in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of the Negev in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Hagar in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgDesert: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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