Deuteronomy 2:34
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 2:34
34 And we took all his cities at that time, and utterly destroyed the men, and the women, and the little ones, of every city, we left none to remain:
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 2 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, prayer, worship. Written during the end of the wilderness wandering (c. 1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Moses delivered these speeches as Israel prepared to enter a land filled with different Canaanite city-states.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-37: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Deuteronomy and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Deuteronomy 2:34
34 And we took all his cities at that time, and utterly destroyed the men, and the women, and the little ones, of every city, we left none to remain:
Analysis
The systematic conquest 'we took all his cities at that time, and utterly destroyed the men, and the women, and the little ones, of every city' describes herem warfare's complete nature. The exception 'we left none to remain' emphasizes thoroughness. This severe judgment served multiple purposes: punishing incorrigible wickedness, preventing cultural contamination, and ensuring Israel's security. While difficult for modern sensibilities, it demonstrates sin's gravity and holiness' demands.
Historical Context
Herem (devoted destruction) was commanded primarily for Canaanite nations whose wickedness had reached full measure (Genesis 15:16). The Amorites practiced child sacrifice, temple prostitution, and other abominations. God's patient forbearance had allowed centuries for repentance; when judgment came, it was both just and final. This severity protected Israel from adopting such practices.
Reflection
- How does the severity of God's judgment on sin affect your understanding of holiness?
- What compromises with sin seem small but threaten spiritual contamination?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 3:6, 7:2, 1 Samuel 15:3