Joshua 13:21

all the cities of the plateau and all the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites, who reigned in Heshbon until Moses killed him and the chiefs of Midian (Evi, Rekem, Zur, Hur, and Reba), the princes of Sihon who lived in the land.

Study Bible

all the cities of the plain
This phrase refers to the fertile and expansive region known as the plains of Moab, located east of the Jordan River. Historically, this area was significant for its agricultural productivity and strategic location. The Hebrew word for "plain" (מִישׁוֹר, mishor) often denotes a level or flat area, emphasizing the vastness and accessibility of the land. This region was crucial for the Israelites as it provided a staging ground for their entry into the Promised Land.

the entire kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites
Sihon was a powerful Amorite king whose territory extended over a significant portion of the Transjordan. The Amorites were a prominent Canaanite people known for their fortified cities and military prowess. The Hebrew root for "Amorites" (אֱמֹרִי, Emori) suggests a people of renown or prominence. The conquest of Sihon's kingdom by the Israelites, under Moses' leadership, was a pivotal moment in their journey, symbolizing God's promise and faithfulness in delivering the land to His people.

who reigned in Heshbon
Heshbon was the capital city of Sihon's kingdom, strategically located and heavily fortified. The name "Heshbon" (חֶשְׁבּוֹן, Cheshbon) is derived from a root meaning "to devise" or "to plan," possibly indicating its role as a center of administration and strategy. The city's capture demonstrated the Israelites' growing strength and God's providential guidance in their conquest of the land.

were conquered by Moses
This phrase underscores the leadership of Moses in the conquest of the Transjordan territories. The Hebrew verb for "conquered" (נָכָה, nakah) implies a decisive victory, often with divine assistance. Moses, as God's chosen leader, was instrumental in securing these victories, which were foundational for the subsequent settlement of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh in these lands.

along with the chiefs of Midian—Evi, Rekem, Zur, Hur, and Reba
The Midianites were a nomadic people often in conflict with Israel. The mention of these chiefs highlights the comprehensive nature of the victory. Each name carries significance: "Evi" (אֵוִי) may mean "desire," "Rekem" (רֶקֶם) could mean "variegation," "Zur" (צוּר) means "rock," "Hur" (חוּר) might mean "white," and "Reba" (רֶבַע) means "fourth." These names reflect the diverse leadership and influence of the Midianites, which were effectively neutralized by the Israelites.

the princes of Sihon who lived in the land
This phrase indicates the political structure under Sihon's rule, with princes or leaders governing various regions. The Hebrew term for "princes" (נְשִׂיאִים, nesi'im) suggests individuals of high rank and authority. Their defeat signifies the dismantling of Sihon's power and the transfer of control to the Israelites, fulfilling God's promise to give them the land. This victory serves as a testament to God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His covenant with Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Sihon, King of the Amorites
Sihon was a powerful Amorite king who ruled in Heshbon. His defeat by Moses marked a significant victory for the Israelites as they journeyed to the Promised Land.

2. Heshbon
This was the capital city of King Sihon. It became a significant location for the Israelites after their conquest.

3. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who led them out of Egypt and through the wilderness. He was instrumental in defeating Sihon and the Midianite chiefs.

4. Midianite Chiefs (Evi, Rekem, Zur, Hur, and Reba)
These were leaders allied with Sihon. Their defeat was part of the broader conquest of the land east of the Jordan.

5. The Cities of the Plain
These refer to the territories conquered by the Israelites, which were part of the land promised to them by God.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Fulfillment of Promises
The defeat of Sihon and the acquisition of his land demonstrate God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Israel. Believers can trust in God's promises in their own lives.

Divine Strategy and Leadership
Moses' leadership and obedience to God's commands were crucial in the victory over Sihon. This teaches the importance of seeking and following God's guidance in our endeavors.

The Consequences of Opposition to God
Sihon's resistance to Israel, and thus to God's plan, led to his downfall. This serves as a warning against opposing God's will.

The Role of Remembrance in Faith
The recounting of these victories in Scripture serves to remind believers of God's past faithfulness, encouraging trust in His future provision.

Unity and Cooperation in God's Mission
The collaboration between Moses and the Israelites in these battles underscores the importance of unity in achieving God's purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the defeat of Sihon illustrate God's faithfulness to His promises, and how can this encourage us in our personal faith journey?

2. In what ways can we seek and follow God's guidance in our own lives, as Moses did in leading the Israelites?

3. What lessons can we learn from the consequences faced by those who oppose God's plans, such as Sihon and the Midianite chiefs?

4. How can remembering God's past faithfulness, as seen in the victories over Sihon and others, strengthen our trust in Him today?

5. What role does unity play in fulfilling God's mission, and how can we foster greater cooperation within our faith communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 21:21-35
This passage details the initial encounter and battle between the Israelites and King Sihon, providing context for the victory mentioned in Joshua 13:21.

Deuteronomy 2:24-37
Here, God commands Moses to engage Sihon in battle, emphasizing the divine mandate behind the conquest.

Psalm 135:10-12
This psalm praises God for His mighty acts, including the defeat of Sihon, highlighting the enduring significance of these victories in Israel's history.