Joshua 12:5
And reigned in mount Hermon, and in Salcah, and in all Bashan, unto the border of the Geshurites and the Maachathites, and half Gilead, the border of Sihon king of Heshbon.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Mount Hermon, the region's highest peak (over 9,000 feet), marked the northern boundary of Og's kingdom and Israel's conquests. Salcah (modern Salkhad) lay about sixty miles east of the Sea of Galilee, marking Bashan's eastern extent. The territory described encompassed roughly 60-70 miles north-south and similar east-west—substantial kingdom. The Geshurites and Maachathites were Aramean peoples who maintained independence despite Israel's conquest of surrounding territories (they're mentioned as unconquered in Joshua 13:13). Bashan's fertility made it economically valuable; its strategic location made it militarily significant. The combined territories of Sihon and Og gave Israel control of all Transjordan from the Arnon River north to Mount Hermon—fulfilling God's promise (Deuteronomy 3:8). This Transjordan territory, though not the main promised land, was substantial addition. It was allotted to Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh (chapter 13).
Questions for Reflection
- How does the magnitude of God's provision (vast territories, defeated powerful kings) exceed expectations?
- What does God's comprehensive victory (both Sihon and Og defeated) teach about His thorough faithfulness?
- How should overwhelming past provision build confidence in God's ability to provide for present needs?
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Analysis & Commentary
Og's extensive territory: 'And reigned in mount Hermon, and in Salcah, and in all Bashan, unto the border of the Geshur ites and the Maachathites, and half Gilead, the border of Sihon king of Heshbon.' The geographic catalog spans from Mount Hermon (far north) to the border with Sihon's kingdom (south), encompassing all of Bashan. Salcah marked the eastern extent. The mention of Geshurites and Maachathites indicates neighboring peoples not fully conquered (13:13 notes they remained). The phrase 'half Gilead' shows Og's kingdom overlapped or bordered Sihon's. This comprehensive territory description establishes the magnitude of Israel's conquests. Two powerful kings with extensive holdings—both defeated by Israel under God's direction. The passage emphasizes that comprehensive victory came from God, not human military superiority. No territorial claim was too large, no enemy too strong when God fought for Israel.