Deuteronomy 3:13

To the half-tribe of Manasseh I gave the rest of Gilead and all of Bashan, the kingdom of Og. (The entire region of Argob, the whole territory of Bashan, used to be called the land of the Rephaim.)

Study Bible

To the half-tribe of Manasseh
The division of the land among the tribes of Israel was a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham. The half-tribe of Manasseh, one of Joseph's sons, received land on the east side of the Jordan River. This allocation highlights the unique inheritance of Joseph's descendants, as his two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, were each given a portion among the tribes, effectively granting Joseph a double portion.

I gave the rest of Gilead
Gilead was a fertile region known for its balm, a valuable resin used for medicinal purposes. The allocation of Gilead to the half-tribe of Manasseh underscores the importance of this area in terms of resources and strategic location. Historically, Gilead was a contested region due to its richness and position as a buffer zone between Israel and its eastern neighbors.

and all of Bashan, the kingdom of Og.
Bashan was a region known for its fertile land and strong cities. Og, the king of Bashan, was one of the last of the Rephaim, a race of giants. The defeat of Og and the allocation of his kingdom to the Israelites demonstrated God's power and faithfulness in delivering His people from formidable enemies. This victory is often referenced as a testament to God's might and the fulfillment of His promises.

(The entire region of Argob,
Argob was a district within Bashan, noted for its fortified cities and unique landscape. The mention of Argob highlights the strategic and military significance of the area. The cities of Argob were known for their strength and fortifications, which made their conquest by the Israelites a notable achievement.

the whole territory of Bashan,
Bashan's territory was extensive and included many fortified cities. Its mention here emphasizes the completeness of the land given to the half-tribe of Manasseh. The region's fertility and resources made it a valuable inheritance, reflecting God's provision for His people.

used to be called the land of the Rephaim.)
The Rephaim were an ancient people known for their great size and strength, often associated with giants. The reference to the land of the Rephaim serves as a reminder of the formidable nature of the enemies Israel faced and overcame with God's help. This victory over the Rephaim is symbolic of God's ability to conquer seemingly insurmountable obstacles, prefiguring the ultimate victory over sin and death through Jesus Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gilead
A region east of the Jordan River, known for its balm and fertile land. It was part of the territory given to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh.

2. Bashan
A fertile and prosperous region known for its strong cities and mighty oaks. It was ruled by King Og before being conquered by the Israelites.

3. Og, King of Bashan
One of the last of the Rephaim, a group of ancient giants. His defeat by the Israelites is a testament to God's power and faithfulness.

4. Half-Tribe of Manasseh
One of the tribes of Israel, descended from Joseph's son Manasseh. They received a portion of the land east of the Jordan.

5. Rephaim
An ancient people known for their great size and strength, often associated with giants in biblical texts.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Fulfillment of Promises
The allocation of land to the tribes demonstrates God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding the inheritance of the land.

Overcoming Giants with God's Help
The defeat of Og, a giant, symbolizes overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges with God's assistance. Believers can trust God to help them face their own "giants."

The Importance of Obedience and Trust
The tribes' willingness to settle in the land and trust God's provision serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience and trust in God's plan.

Inheritance and Legacy
The division of the land among the tribes highlights the importance of spiritual inheritance and the legacy we leave for future generations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the allocation of land to the half-tribe of Manasseh reflect God's faithfulness to His promises? Consider other instances in the Bible where God fulfills His promises.

2. What can we learn from the Israelites' conquest of Bashan about facing challenges in our own lives? How does this relate to the concept of spiritual warfare?

3. In what ways does the account of the Rephaim and King Og encourage us to trust in God's power over seemingly insurmountable obstacles?

4. How does the division of land among the tribes of Israel illustrate the importance of spiritual inheritance and legacy? How can we apply this to our own lives and families?

5. Reflect on the significance of obedience and trust in God's plan as demonstrated by the tribes settling in Gilead and Bashan. How can we cultivate a similar attitude in our daily walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 32
This chapter provides background on the request of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh to settle in the land east of the Jordan, including Gilead and Bashan.

Joshua 13
Details the division of the land among the tribes of Israel, including the allocation of Gilead and Bashan to the half-tribe of Manasseh.

Psalm 22
Mentions the "bulls of Bashan," symbolizing strength and opposition, which can be connected to the formidable nature of the region and its inhabitants.