Deuteronomy 31:4
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 31:4
4 And the LORD shall do unto them as he did to Sihon and to Og, kings of the Amorites, and unto the land of them, whom he destroyed.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 31 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, grace, fellowship. 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 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 31:4
4 And the LORD shall do unto them as he did to Sihon and to Og, kings of the Amorites, and unto the land of them, whom he destroyed.
Analysis
And the LORD shall do unto them as he did to Sihon and to Og, kings of the Amorites—Moses references recent history as proof of future victory. Sihon ruled Heshbon, Og ruled Bashan; both attacked Israel and were utterly destroyed (Numbers 21:21-35; Deuteronomy 2:26-3:11). These victories demonstrated Yahweh's power over supposedly invincible foes—Og was a giant of the Rephaim remnant, and both kings had fortified cities and powerful armies. Whom he destroyed (asher hishmadtem)—the verb shamad appears again, emphasizing complete conquest.
This appeal to precedent serves pastoral and theological purposes. Pastorally, it encourages Israel facing the intimidating Canaanite coalition—if God defeated Sihon and Og, He can defeat any enemy. Theologically, it establishes the pattern of divine warfare: God fights for Israel; Israel participates in His victory. The Canaanite conquest isn't human imperialism but divine judgment executed through human agency. Paul applies this principle spiritually in Romans 8:37 and 2 Corinthians 2:14—past victories guarantee future conquest through Christ.
Historical Context
Sihon and Og's defeats occurred just months earlier in the fortieth year (Numbers 21, circa 1407 BC). These were Israel's first major military victories since leaving Egypt. Sihon controlled the Transjordan from the Arnon River to the Jabbok; Og ruled Bashan north of the Jabbok with sixty fortified cities. Their kingdoms became the inheritance of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh. Archaeological evidence confirms destruction layers at several Transjordanian sites dating to the late Bronze Age, consistent with these conquests.
Reflection
- How do past spiritual victories strengthen your faith for current battles?
- What 'giants' (seemingly invincible obstacles) do you face that God has already proven He can defeat?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord