Deuteronomy 3:12

So at that time we took possession of this land. To the Reubenites and Gadites I gave the land beyond Aroer along the Arnon Valley, and half the hill country of Gilead, along with its cities.

Study Bible

So at that time we took possession of this land.
This phrase refers to the period after the Israelites' victory over King Sihon of the Amorites and King Og of Bashan. The conquest of these lands was a fulfillment of God's promise to give the Israelites territory east of the Jordan River. This possession signifies God's faithfulness and the Israelites' obedience to His command to take the land. It also marks a transition from the wilderness wanderings to the establishment of a settled community, foreshadowing the eventual conquest of Canaan.

To the Reubenites and Gadites I gave the land beyond Aroer along the Arnon Valley,
The Reubenites and Gadites were two of the twelve tribes of Israel. Their request for land on the east side of the Jordan was based on its suitability for their large herds and flocks. Aroer was a city located on the northern edge of the Arnon Valley, which served as a natural boundary. This allocation reflects the practical needs of the tribes and the beginning of the division of the Promised Land among the tribes. The Arnon Valley itself was a significant geographical feature, marking the border between Moab and the Amorite kingdom.

and half the hill country of Gilead,
Gilead was a fertile and strategically important region known for its balm, a valuable resin used for medicinal purposes. The allocation of half of Gilead to the Reubenites and Gadites highlights the importance of this area for agriculture and trade. Gilead's location made it a buffer zone against potential eastern invaders, providing security for the Israelites. This division also underscores the need for cooperation among the tribes to maintain control over the land.

along with its cities.
The mention of cities indicates the presence of established settlements, which the Israelites would have taken over. These cities provided infrastructure and resources necessary for the tribes to thrive in their new territory. The possession of cities also implies a shift from a nomadic lifestyle to a more settled, urban existence, aligning with God's plan for Israel to become a nation with a defined territory and governance. This transition is a step towards the fulfillment of God's covenant with Abraham, promising his descendants a land of their own.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Aroer
A city located by the Arnon Valley, marking the southern boundary of the territory given to the tribes of Reuben and Gad.

2. Arnon Valley
A significant geographical landmark that served as a boundary between the territories of Moab and the land given to the Israelites.

3. Gilead
A region of fertile land east of the Jordan River, known for its balm and significant in biblical history.

4. Reubenites
Descendants of Reuben, Jacob's firstborn, who were allocated land east of the Jordan.

5. Gadites
Descendants of Gad, another of Jacob's sons, who also received land in the Transjordan area.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Fulfillment of Promises
The allocation of land to the Reubenites and Gadites demonstrates God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the patriarchs regarding the inheritance of the land.

The Importance of Obedience and Trust
The tribes' willingness to settle in the land provided by God reflects their obedience and trust in His provision, a model for believers today.

Community and Shared Responsibility
The decision to settle east of the Jordan required cooperation and shared responsibility among the tribes, highlighting the importance of unity and support within the body of Christ.

Stewardship of God's Gifts
The land given to the Reubenites and Gadites was a gift from God, reminding us of the importance of stewarding well what God has entrusted to us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the allocation of land to the Reubenites and Gadites reflect God's faithfulness to His promises?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate obedience and trust in God's provision in our own lives?

3. How does the cooperation among the tribes in settling the land east of the Jordan serve as a model for unity within the church today?

4. What are some practical ways we can steward the gifts and resources God has given us?

5. How do the blessings and prophecies given to Reuben and Gad in Genesis 49 connect to their inheritance in Deuteronomy 3:12?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 32
This chapter provides the background on why the tribes of Reuben and Gad requested land east of the Jordan, emphasizing their desire for pastureland for their livestock.

Joshua 13
Details the division of the land among the tribes, including the territories east of the Jordan given to Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh.

Genesis 49
Jacob's blessings to his sons, including Reuben and Gad, which foreshadow their future territories and roles among the tribes of Israel.