Deuteronomy 3:6

We devoted them to destruction, as we had done to Sihon king of Heshbon, utterly destroying the men, women, and children of every city.

Study Bible

We devoted them to destruction
This phrase refers to the practice of "herem," a term meaning to devote something to God by completely destroying it. This was a common practice in ancient warfare, especially in the context of the Israelites' conquest of Canaan. It was seen as a way to purify the land from idolatry and pagan practices, ensuring that the Israelites would not be led astray by the customs of the conquered peoples. This act was also a form of divine judgment against the Canaanites for their sins, as described in Genesis 15:16.

as we had done to Sihon king of Heshbon
Sihon was the king of the Amorites, and his defeat is recounted in Numbers 21:21-31. The Israelites' victory over Sihon was significant because it marked the beginning of their conquest of the Transjordan region. This victory demonstrated God's power and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Israel. The defeat of Sihon served as a precedent for the conquest of other territories, showing that God was with Israel in their battles.

utterly destroying the men, women, and children of every city
The complete destruction of the inhabitants of these cities was commanded by God as part of the herem. This was intended to prevent the Israelites from being influenced by the idolatrous practices of the Canaanites. While this command is difficult to understand from a modern perspective, it reflects the seriousness with which God viewed the threat of idolatry and the need for Israel to remain a holy people. This act also prefigures the final judgment, where sin and rebellion against God will be completely eradicated.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who is recounting the events of their conquest as they journey towards the Promised Land.

2. Og, King of Bashan
The ruler of Bashan, whose kingdom was defeated by the Israelites under God's command.

3. Sihon, King of Heshbon
Another Amorite king previously defeated by the Israelites, serving as a precedent for the destruction of Og's kingdom.

4. Bashan
A region east of the Jordan River, known for its fortified cities and strong warriors.

5. The Israelites
God's chosen people, who are executing His judgment on the nations occupying the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Judgment
The destruction of Og's kingdom demonstrates God's sovereign authority over nations and His right to execute judgment.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' complete destruction of their enemies reflects their obedience to God's specific instructions, emphasizing the importance of following God's will fully.

The Seriousness of Sin
The total destruction of these cities serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin and the consequences of living in opposition to God.

Trust in God's Promises
The victory over Og reinforces the reliability of God's promises, encouraging believers to trust in His faithfulness in their own lives.

Spiritual Warfare
Just as the Israelites faced physical battles, Christians are engaged in spiritual warfare, requiring vigilance and reliance on God's strength.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of the destruction of Og's kingdom illustrate God's sovereignty and justice?

2. In what ways can we apply the Israelites' obedience to God's commands in our own lives today?

3. How does the complete destruction of these cities challenge our understanding of God's character and the seriousness of sin?

4. What parallels can we draw between the Israelites' conquest of the Promised Land and our spiritual battles as Christians?

5. How can we strengthen our trust in God's promises, as demonstrated by the Israelites' victories over their enemies?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 21:33-35
This passage provides the initial account of the battle against Og, King of Bashan, highlighting God's command and promise of victory.

Joshua 12:4-5
Lists Og among the defeated kings, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel.

Psalm 135:10-12
Celebrates God's mighty acts in giving the land of these kings to Israel as an inheritance.

Hebrews 11:30-31
Reflects on the faith required to conquer the Promised Land, drawing parallels to the faith of the Israelites in following God's commands.