Deuteronomy 3:7

But all the livestock and plunder of the cities we carried off for ourselves.

Study Bible

But all the livestock
In the context of ancient Near Eastern warfare, livestock was a valuable asset. It provided food, clothing, and labor. The Israelites, as a nomadic people transitioning to a settled life in the Promised Land, would have found livestock essential for their survival and economic stability. This phrase highlights the practical needs of the Israelites and God's provision for them through the conquest.

and plunder of the cities
The term "plunder" refers to the goods and valuables taken from the defeated cities. In the ancient world, plundering was a common practice after a military victory. It served as a reward for the victors and a means to sustain the community. This action was part of God's judgment on the Canaanite nations, fulfilling His promise to give the land to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

we carried off for ourselves.
This phrase indicates that the Israelites took possession of the goods as their own, signifying God's blessing and provision. It also reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to provide for His people as they entered the land He had sworn to give them. This act of taking possession is a precursor to the eventual settlement in the Promised Land, where the Israelites would establish their own society under God's law. The carrying off of plunder can also be seen as a type of the spiritual inheritance believers receive in Christ, who has won the ultimate victory over sin and death.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Israelites
The people of God, who are journeying through the wilderness and conquering lands as they approach Canaan.

3. Og, King of Bashan
The king whose territory was conquered by the Israelites, as described in the surrounding context of Deuteronomy 3.

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

5. The Conquest of Bashan
The event where the Israelites defeated King Og and took possession of his land, including the livestock and plunder.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Provision
The Israelites' ability to carry off livestock and plunder demonstrates God's provision and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people.

The Importance of Obedience
The Israelites' success in battle was contingent upon their obedience to God's commands. This underscores the importance of following God's guidance in our own lives.

Stewardship of God's Blessings
The plunder and livestock were resources given by God. Believers are called to be good stewards of the blessings and resources God provides.

Trust in God's Timing
The conquest of Bashan was part of God's plan and timing. Trusting in God's timing is crucial, even when the path seems uncertain.

Victory Through God's Power
The Israelites' victories were not by their own strength but through God's power. This reminds us to rely on God's strength in our battles.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the conquest of Bashan demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises made to Abraham?

2. In what ways can we see God's provision in our own lives, similar to how the Israelites received livestock and plunder?

3. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' obedience in battle that apply to our spiritual battles today?

4. How can we practice good stewardship with the resources and blessings God has given us?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to trust in God's timing. How did that experience strengthen your faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 21
Provides additional context on the battles against King Og and the Amorites, showing the continuity of God's promise to give Israel the land.

Joshua 12
Lists the kings defeated by the Israelites, including Og, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promises.

Genesis 15
God's covenant with Abraham, promising land to his descendants, which is being fulfilled in these conquests.

Psalm 136
Celebrates God's enduring love and mighty acts, including the defeat of Og, as part of Israel's history.