Topical Encyclopedia Og, the king of Bashan, is a prominent figure in the Old Testament, known for his extraordinary size and strength. He is often remembered as one of the last of the Rephaim, a group of ancient giants mentioned in the Bible. Og's narrative is primarily found in the books of Numbers and Deuteronomy, where his encounter with the Israelites is detailed.Biblical References and Historical Context Og's kingdom was located in Bashan, a fertile region east of the Jordan River. The Bible describes him as a formidable adversary due to his gigantic stature. In Deuteronomy 3:11, it is noted, "For only Og king of Bashan remained of the remnant of the Rephaim. His bed was made of iron; it is nine cubits long and four cubits wide, by the standard cubit." This description emphasizes his immense size, with his bed measuring approximately 13.5 feet long and 6 feet wide, suggesting that Og himself was of extraordinary height. The Rephaim, to which Og belonged, are mentioned in several biblical passages as a race of giants. Their presence in the land posed a significant challenge to the Israelites during their conquest of Canaan. Og's defeat is a testament to God's power and faithfulness in delivering His people from seemingly insurmountable foes. The Battle Against Og The Israelites, under the leadership of Moses, encountered Og during their journey to the Promised Land. In Numbers 21:33-35, the confrontation is described: "Then they turned and went up along the road to Bashan, and Og king of Bashan came out against them with his whole army to fight at Edrei. But the LORD said to Moses, 'Do not fear him, for I have delivered him into your hand, along with all his people and his land. Do to him as you did to Sihon king of the Amorites, who lived in Heshbon.' So they struck him down, along with his sons and his whole army, until no remnant was left to him. And they took possession of his land." This victory over Og and his forces was significant for the Israelites, as it demonstrated God's continued support and the fulfillment of His promises. The defeat of such a mighty king reassured the Israelites of their divine mandate to conquer the land of Canaan. Og's Legacy Og's legacy is one of both fear and awe. His defeat is recounted in later biblical texts as a reminder of God's might and the deliverance He provided to His people. In Psalm 135:11 and Psalm 136:20, Og is mentioned alongside Sihon, king of the Amorites, as examples of God's victories on behalf of Israel: "Sihon king of the Amorites, Og king of Bashan, and all the kings of Canaan—He gave their land as an inheritance, an inheritance to His people Israel." The account of Og serves as a powerful illustration of the challenges faced by the Israelites and the divine intervention that enabled their success. His defeat is a testament to the belief that no earthly power, regardless of its size or strength, can withstand the will of God. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 21:33And they turned and went up by the way of Bashan: and Og the king of Bashan went out against them, he, and all his people, to the battle at Edrei. Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 3:11 Joshua 12:4 Joshua 13:12 Library The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Resources How tall was Adam? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh want to live on the east of the Jordan? | GotQuestions.org Is there any evidence for the giants mentioned in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |