Deuteronomy 2:28
Thou shalt sell me meat for money, that I may eat; and give me water for money, that I may drink: only I will pass through on my feet;
Original Language Analysis
בַּכֶּ֥סֶף
for money
H3701
בַּכֶּ֥סֶף
for money
Strong's:
H3701
Word #:
2 of 12
silver (from its pale color); by implication, money
וּמַ֛יִם
me water
H4325
וּמַ֛יִם
me water
Strong's:
H4325
Word #:
5 of 12
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
בַּכֶּ֥סֶף
for money
H3701
בַּכֶּ֥סֶף
for money
Strong's:
H3701
Word #:
6 of 12
silver (from its pale color); by implication, money
תִּתֶּן
and give
H5414
תִּתֶּן
and give
Strong's:
H5414
Word #:
7 of 12
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
רַ֖ק
H7535
רַ֖ק
Strong's:
H7535
Word #:
10 of 12
properly, leanness, i.e., (figuratively) limitation; only adverbial, merely, or conjunctional, although
Historical Context
Sihon's hardening parallels Pharaoh (Exodus 7-14), showing a pattern where God judicially hardens those persistently resistant to His purposes. This isn't arbitrary cruelty but righteous judgment that uses human rebellion to accomplish divine plans. The conquest of Sihon's territory became essential for Israel's Transjordan settlement and approach to Canaan.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you grapple with texts describing God's hardening of human hearts?
- In what ways does persistent resistance to God's will result in further hardening?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Sihon's refusal had divine causation: 'the LORD thy God hardened his spirit, and made his heart obstinate.' This sovereign hardening (like Pharaoh's) served God's purpose 'that he might deliver him into thy hand.' God's hardening doesn't violate human will but confirms existing disposition, turning rebellion into occasion for judgment. This raises profound questions about divine sovereignty and human responsibility that Scripture holds in tension.