Deuteronomy 3:10
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 3:10
10 All the cities of the plain, and all Gilead, and all Bashan, unto Salchah and Edrei, cities of the kingdom of Og in Bashan.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 3 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, redemption, covenant. 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 21-29: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 3:10
10 All the cities of the plain, and all Gilead, and all Bashan, unto Salchah and Edrei, cities of the kingdom of Og in Bashan.
Analysis
The comprehensive description 'All the cities of the plain, and all Gilead, and all Bashan' emphasizes totality of conquest. Listing specific territories (the plain, Gilead, Bashan) documents the full extent of possession. Mentioning the northern border cities 'Salchah and Edrei' provides concrete verification. This detailed record serves as testimony to God's faithfulness—specific names and places prove God keeps His word in actual history.
Historical Context
The 'cities of the plain' refer to the Moabite plateau, Gilead to the central highlands, and Bashan to the northern region. Salchah and Edrei marked the northeastern and southeastern extremes of Og's kingdom. These geographical markers allowed future generations to verify the conquest accounts.
Reflection
- How do specific details of God's past faithfulness strengthen your present trust?
- What concrete evidences of God's provision can you document and remember?
Word Studies
- Kingdom: מַלְכוּת (Malkhut) H4467 - Kingdom, reign, royal power