Psalm 135:11

Sihon king of the Amorites, Og king of Bashan, and all the kings of Canaan.

Study Bible

Sihon king of the Amorites
Sihon was a significant Amorite king whose territory was east of the Jordan River. The Amorites were a powerful group in the ancient Near East, often mentioned in the context of Israel's conquest of the Promised Land. Sihon's defeat is recorded in Numbers 21:21-31 and Deuteronomy 2:24-37. This victory was crucial for Israel as it marked the beginning of their conquest of the land promised to them by God. The defeat of Sihon demonstrated God's power and faithfulness to Israel, fulfilling His promise to give them the land. Sihon's kingdom included the city of Heshbon, which became a symbol of Israel's triumph over their enemies.

Og king of Bashan
Og was another formidable king whose defeat is recounted in Numbers 21:33-35 and Deuteronomy 3:1-11. He ruled over Bashan, a region known for its fertile land and strong cities. Og is described as one of the last of the Rephaim, a group of giants, which added to the significance of his defeat. The victory over Og further solidified Israel's claim to the land east of the Jordan and demonstrated God's might in overcoming seemingly insurmountable foes. The conquest of Og's territory was a testament to God's promise and power, as well as a foreshadowing of the ultimate victory over all spiritual enemies through Christ.

and all the kings of Canaan
The phrase "all the kings of Canaan" refers to the numerous city-states and their rulers that inhabited the land west of the Jordan River. The conquest of Canaan is detailed in the Book of Joshua, where God led Israel to victory over these kings, fulfilling His covenant with Abraham to give his descendants the land (Genesis 15:18-21). The defeat of these kings symbolized the establishment of God's kingdom on earth and His sovereignty over all nations. This conquest is a type of the spiritual victory believers have in Christ, who conquers sin and death and establishes His reign in the hearts of His people. The historical and archaeological evidence of these city-states provides insight into the complex and diverse culture of ancient Canaan, highlighting the miraculous nature of Israel's victories.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Sihon, King of the Amorites
Sihon was a powerful Amorite king who ruled over a significant territory east of the Jordan River. His defeat by the Israelites, as they journeyed to the Promised Land, is a testament to God's power and faithfulness to His promises.

2. Og, King of Bashan
Og was another formidable king whose kingdom was located in Bashan, north of Sihon's territory. Known for his great size and strength, Og's defeat further demonstrated God's might and the fulfillment of His covenant with Israel.

3. Kings of Canaan
The term refers collectively to the various rulers of the Canaanite city-states. Their defeat was crucial for the Israelites to take possession of the land God had promised to their ancestors.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Power
The defeat of mighty kings like Sihon and Og illustrates God's supreme power over all earthly rulers. Believers can trust in God's ability to overcome any obstacle in their lives.

Faithfulness to Promises
God's actions in delivering these kings into Israel's hands demonstrate His unwavering faithfulness to His promises. Christians are encouraged to hold fast to God's promises, knowing He is faithful to fulfill them.

Spiritual Warfare
Just as Israel faced physical battles, Christians face spiritual battles. The victories over Sihon and Og remind believers that God equips and empowers them to overcome spiritual adversaries.

Historical Remembrance
The recounting of these victories serves as a reminder of God's past faithfulness, encouraging believers to remember and recount God's work in their own lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the defeat of Sihon and Og demonstrate God's power and faithfulness in your own life today?

2. In what ways can the victories over these kings encourage you in facing your current spiritual battles?

3. How do the accounts of Sihon and Og in Numbers and Deuteronomy deepen your understanding of God's promises?

4. What are some practical ways you can remember and recount God's faithfulness in your life, similar to how Israel remembered these victories?

5. How can the concept of God's sovereignty, as seen in these victories, influence your perspective on current world events and personal challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 21:21-35
This passage details the Israelites' encounters and victories over Sihon and Og, emphasizing God's direct intervention and support for His people.

Deuteronomy 3:1-11
Provides a more detailed account of the battle against Og, highlighting the miraculous nature of Israel's victory and God's assurance to Moses.

Joshua 12:1-24
Lists the defeated kings, including Sihon and Og, as part of the broader account of Israel's conquest of Canaan, underscoring God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises.