Deuteronomy 3:5

All these cities were fortified with high walls and gates and bars, and there were many more unwalled villages.

Study Bible

All these cities were fortified with high walls
The phrase refers to the cities in the region of Bashan, which were part of the territory conquered by the Israelites under Moses' leadership. Fortified cities with high walls were common in ancient Near Eastern cultures as a means of defense against invaders. The presence of such fortifications indicates the strength and advanced state of the societies that inhabited these areas. This detail underscores the miraculous nature of Israel's victories, as they were able to conquer well-defended cities despite being a nomadic people without a standing army. The high walls symbolize human strength and security, which are ultimately overcome by God's power, as seen in the fall of Jericho (Joshua 6).

and gates and bars
Gates and bars were essential components of ancient city defenses, controlling access and providing security. The mention of these features highlights the completeness of the fortifications, suggesting that these cities were well-prepared for siege warfare. In biblical symbolism, gates often represent authority and power, as seen in passages like Matthew 16:18, where Jesus speaks of the "gates of Hades." The overcoming of these gates by the Israelites can be seen as a foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate victory over the powers of darkness.

and there were many more unwalled villages
The unwalled villages contrast with the fortified cities, indicating a diversity of settlement types within the region. These villages were likely more vulnerable to attack and less politically significant than the fortified cities. The mention of unwalled villages suggests the comprehensive nature of Israel's conquest, as they did not only target major urban centers but also smaller, less defended communities. This detail reflects the thoroughness of God's judgment on the Canaanite nations, as prophesied in Genesis 15:16, and the fulfillment of His promise to give the land to the descendants of Abraham.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who is recounting their journey and victories as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.

2. Israelites
The people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who are on the brink of entering the land promised to them by God.

3. Og, King of Bashan
The Amorite king defeated by the Israelites, whose territory included the fortified cities mentioned in this verse.

4. Bashan
A region east of the Jordan River, known for its fertile land and strong cities, which was conquered by the Israelites.

5. Fortified Cities
These cities represent the strength and security of the enemy, yet they were overcome by the Israelites through God's power.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Power
The fortified cities symbolize human strength and security, yet they fall before God's will. Trust in God's sovereignty over all circumstances.

Faith Over Fear
The Israelites faced daunting obstacles, yet their faith in God's promises led to victory. In our lives, faith should triumph over fear of the unknown or seemingly impossible challenges.

Spiritual Warfare
Just as the Israelites faced physical fortified cities, Christians face spiritual strongholds. Rely on God's power and spiritual weapons to overcome these challenges.

Preparation and Obedience
The Israelites' victory was preceded by preparation and obedience to God's commands. Prepare spiritually and obey God's word to see His promises fulfilled.

Community and Support
The mention of unwalled villages alongside fortified cities highlights the importance of community. Support and protect one another in faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the victory over fortified cities in Deuteronomy 3:5 encourage you to trust God with the "fortified" challenges in your life?

2. In what ways can the account of the Israelites' conquest of Bashan inspire you to face your own spiritual battles?

3. How can the concept of spiritual strongholds in 2 Corinthians 10:4 be applied to personal struggles you are currently facing?

4. What steps can you take to ensure you are spiritually prepared and obedient to God's word, as the Israelites were before their victories?

5. How can you foster a sense of community and support within your church or small group, similar to the unwalled villages mentioned in the passage?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 6
The fall of Jericho, another fortified city, demonstrates God's power in overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Psalm 18:29
David speaks of God's strength enabling him to leap over walls, symbolizing divine assistance in overcoming challenges.

2 Corinthians 10:4
Paul discusses the spiritual weapons that have divine power to demolish strongholds, connecting to the theme of overcoming fortified cities.