Deuteronomy 2:27
Let me pass through thy land: I will go along by the high way, I will neither turn unto the right hand nor to the left.
Original Language Analysis
אֶעְבְּרָ֣ה
Let me pass
H5674
אֶעְבְּרָ֣ה
Let me pass
Strong's:
H5674
Word #:
1 of 9
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in
בְאַרְצֶ֔ךָ
through thy land
H776
בְאַרְצֶ֔ךָ
through thy land
Strong's:
H776
Word #:
2 of 9
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
בַּדֶּ֖רֶךְ
along by the high way
H1870
בַּדֶּ֖רֶךְ
along by the high way
Strong's:
H1870
Word #:
3 of 9
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
בַּדֶּ֖רֶךְ
along by the high way
H1870
בַּדֶּ֖רֶךְ
along by the high way
Strong's:
H1870
Word #:
4 of 9
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
אֵלֵ֑ךְ
H1980
אֵלֵ֑ךְ
Strong's:
H1980
Word #:
5 of 9
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
לֹ֥א
H3808
לֹ֥א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
6 of 9
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
Historical Context
While Deuteronomy simplifies the narrative, Numbers 21:21-23 shows Sihon's hostile refusal and attack. Edom actually refused passage (Numbers 20:20-21), but Moab apparently allowed it. The appeal to precedent, even if partially inaccurate, shows Moses' attempt at persuasion before warfare. Sihon's refusal triggered God's judgment.
Questions for Reflection
- How transparent are you about your ultimate goals when seeking cooperation?
- What precedents can you appeal to when seeking permission or blessing?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The repeated appeal 'only I will pass through on foot' emphasizes humble, non-threatening passage. Referencing Edom and Moab's permission ('as the children of Esau... and the Moabites... did unto me') provides precedent—others allowed passage, why not Sihon? The ultimate goal 'until I shall pass over Jordan into the land which the LORD our God giveth us' grounds the request in God's promise. Transparent communication about intentions reflects integrity.