Deuteronomy 2:26
And I sent messengers out of the wilderness of Kedemoth unto Sihon king of Heshbon with words of peace, saying,
Original Language Analysis
וָֽאֶשְׁלַ֤ח
And I sent
H7971
וָֽאֶשְׁלַ֤ח
And I sent
Strong's:
H7971
Word #:
1 of 11
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
מַלְאָכִים֙
messengers
H4397
מַלְאָכִים֙
messengers
Strong's:
H4397
Word #:
2 of 11
a messenger; specifically, of god, i.e., an angel (also a prophet, priest or teacher)
מִמִּדְבַּ֣ר
out of the wilderness
H4057
מִמִּדְבַּ֣ר
out of the wilderness
Strong's:
H4057
Word #:
3 of 11
a pasture (i.e., open field, whither cattle are driven); by implication, a desert
דִּבְרֵ֥י
with words
H1697
דִּבְרֵ֥י
with words
Strong's:
H1697
Word #:
9 of 11
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
Cross References
Historical Context
This echoes Israel's earlier request to Edom (Numbers 20:17). The 'king's highway' was a major north-south trade route through Transjordan. Moses' reasonable request demonstrated that Israel's conquest was divinely directed—they only fought when necessary, respecting neighbors where God commanded and engaging enemies only when attacked or divinely authorized.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you pursue peace before resorting to conflict in relationships or situations?
- What does honorable engagement with those outside your faith community look like?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Moses' message to Sihon—'Let me pass through thy land'—models diplomatic engagement before warfare. The promise 'I will go along by the high way, I will neither turn unto the right hand nor to the left' offers peaceful passage with clear boundaries. The willingness to 'buy meat... and give me water for money' shows honorable intent—commercial transaction, not exploitation. Warfare should be last resort, not first option, when peaceful alternatives exist.