Deuteronomy 2:18
Thou art to pass over through Ar, the coast of Moab, this day:
Original Language Analysis
עֹבֵ֥ר
Thou art to pass over
H5674
עֹבֵ֥ר
Thou art to pass over
Strong's:
H5674
Word #:
2 of 8
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in
הַיּ֛וֹם
this day
H3117
הַיּ֛וֹם
this day
Strong's:
H3117
Word #:
3 of 8
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
4 of 8
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
גְּב֥וּל
the coast
H1366
גְּב֥וּל
the coast
Strong's:
H1366
Word #:
5 of 8
properly, a cord (as twisted), i.e., (by implication) a boundary; by extension the territory inclosed
מוֹאָ֖ב
of Moab
H4124
מוֹאָ֖ב
of Moab
Strong's:
H4124
Word #:
6 of 8
moab, an incestuous son of lot; also his territory and descendants
Historical Context
Ar was a major Moabite city in the region. Passing through required diplomatic navigation—Israel couldn't conquer Moab but needed passage rights. This tested Israel's obedience to distinguish between what God gave them (Transjordan Amorite lands) and what He reserved for others (Moab, Edom, Ammon). Selective conquest demonstrated divine direction, not merely opportunistic expansion.
Questions for Reflection
- What territories in your life require passage through but not possession?
- How do you maintain restraint when opportunity presents itself but God hasn't granted permission?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The geographical marker 'Thou art to pass over through Ar, the coast of Moab, this day' provides specific direction for Israel's movement. The precision of 'this day' emphasizes the immediacy of obedience—when God says 'now,' delayed response equals disobedience. The route through Ar (Moabite territory) required continued restraint despite approaching the promised land. God's paths sometimes lead through territories we must respect but not claim.