King James Version
Deuteronomy 3
29 verses with commentary
Victory over Og
Then we turned, and went up the way to Bashan: and Og the king of Bashan came out against us, he and all his people, to battle at Edrei.
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
The phrase 'we turned, and went up the way to Bashan' marks forward movement toward the Transjordan conquest. Og king of Bashan's aggressive response ('Og came out against us') provoked defensive warfare. Unlike Edom and Moab (which Israel was forbidden to attack), Bashan wasn't under divine protection. God sometimes allows enemies to initiate conflict to justify necessary battles. Og's aggression...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
III.
(1) **Then.**—In the Hebrew, a simple *And. *The history of this movement is given in Numbers 21:32-33. For *Edrei, *see Numbers 21:33, from which this whole verse is repeated.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**3-5. your south quarter--**The line which bounded it on the south is the most difficult to trace. According to the best biblical geographers, the leading points here defined are as follows: The southwest angle of the southern boundary should be where the wilderness of Zin touches the border of Edom, so that the southern boundary should extend eastward from the extremity of the Dead Sea, wind aro...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 3
Chapter Outline
The conquest of Og king of Bashan.(1-11)
The land of Gilead and Bashan.(12-20)
Moses encourages Joshua.(21-29)
**Verses 1-11**
Og was very powerful, but he did not take warning by the ruin of Sihon, and desire conditions of peace. He trusted his own strength, and so was hardened to his destruction. Those not awakened by the judgments of God on others...
Read full commentary →And the LORD said unto me, Fear him not: for I will deliver him, and all his people, and his land, into thy hand; and thou shalt do unto him as thou didst unto Sihon king of the Amorites, which dwelt at Heshbon.
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
God's encouragement 'Fear him not' addresses the natural intimidation of facing Og, one of the last Rephaim (giants). The promise 'I will deliver him... into thy hand' assures victory before battle, removing uncertainty. Referencing the previous victory over Sihon ('as thou didst unto Sihon') builds faith through remembering God's recent faithfulness. Past victories become fuel for present faith—G...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(2) **And the Lord said unto me. . . .**—This verse repeats Numbers 21:34.
**For I will deliver him** should be rather read thus, *for into thy hand have I delivered him.*
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**3-5. your south quarter--**The line which bounded it on the south is the most difficult to trace. According to the best biblical geographers, the leading points here defined are as follows: The southwest angle of the southern boundary should be where the wilderness of Zin touches the border of Edom, so that the southern boundary should extend eastward from the extremity of the Dead Sea, wind aro...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 3
Chapter Outline
The conquest of Og king of Bashan.(1-11)
The land of Gilead and Bashan.(12-20)
Moses encourages Joshua.(21-29)
**Verses 1-11**
Og was very powerful, but he did not take warning by the ruin of Sihon, and desire conditions of peace. He trusted his own strength, and so was hardened to his destruction. Those not awakened by the judgments of God on others...
Read full commentary →So the LORD our God delivered into our hands Og also, the king of Bashan, and all his people: and we smote him until none was left to him remaining.
View commentary (3 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
The statement 'So the LORD our God delivered into our hands Og also' attributes victory entirely to divine action. Israel fought physically, but theologically they understood God as the true source of triumph. The comprehensive defeat ('we smote him until none was left to him remaining') demonstrates total victory when God fights for His people. This isn't cruelty but complete fulfillment of God's...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**3-5. your south quarter--**The line which bounded it on the south is the most difficult to trace. According to the best biblical geographers, the leading points here defined are as follows: The southwest angle of the southern boundary should be where the wilderness of Zin touches the border of Edom, so that the southern boundary should extend eastward from the extremity of the Dead Sea, wind aro...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 3
Chapter Outline
The conquest of Og king of Bashan.(1-11)
The land of Gilead and Bashan.(12-20)
Moses encourages Joshua.(21-29)
**Verses 1-11**
Og was very powerful, but he did not take warning by the ruin of Sihon, and desire conditions of peace. He trusted his own strength, and so was hardened to his destruction. Those not awakened by the judgments of God on others...
Read full commentary →And we took all his cities at that time, there was not a city which we took not from them, threescore cities, all the region of Argob, the kingdom of Og in Bashan.
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
The taking of 'all his cities at that time' (threescore cities - 60 total) demonstrates the comprehensive scope of victory. The description 'fenced with high walls, gates, and bars' emphasizes the humanly impenetrable nature of these fortifications, yet they fell before God's power. This proves that no human stronghold can withstand divine purposes. Material defenses are meaningless when God deter...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(4, 5) These details are not given in Numbers. Professor Porter, in the *Griant Cities of Bashan, *has well described the impression made upon him by verifying this description in detail. “The whole of Bashan,” he says, “is not larger than an ordinary English county.” That “sixty walled cities, ‘besides unwalled towns a great many,’ should exist in a small province, at such a remote age, far from ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**6. the western border--**There is no uncertainty about this boundary, as it is universally allowed to be the Mediterranean, which is called "the great sea" in comparison with the small inland seas or lakes known to the Hebrews.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 3
Chapter Outline
The conquest of Og king of Bashan.(1-11)
The land of Gilead and Bashan.(12-20)
Moses encourages Joshua.(21-29)
**Verses 1-11**
Og was very powerful, but he did not take warning by the ruin of Sihon, and desire conditions of peace. He trusted his own strength, and so was hardened to his destruction. Those not awakened by the judgments of God on others...
Read full commentary →All these cities were fenced with high walls, gates, and bars; beside unwalled towns a great many.
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KJV Study Commentary
The distinction between 'fenced cities' and 'unwalled towns' shows the totality of conquest—both fortified urban centers and rural villages came under Israel's control. The phrase 'beside unwalled towns a great many' indicates extensive territorial possession. This comprehensive victory provided economic resources and strategic security for the tribes settling east of Jordan. God's gifts are often...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**7-9. north border--**The principal difficulty in understanding the description here arises from what our translators have called mount Hor. The Hebrew words, however, Hor-ha-Hor, properly signify "the mountain of the mountain," or "the high double mountain," which, from the situation, can mean nothing else than the mountain Amana (So 4:8), a member of the great Lebanon range (Jos 13:5).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 3
Chapter Outline
The conquest of Og king of Bashan.(1-11)
The land of Gilead and Bashan.(12-20)
Moses encourages Joshua.(21-29)
**Verses 1-11**
Og was very powerful, but he did not take warning by the ruin of Sihon, and desire conditions of peace. He trusted his own strength, and so was hardened to his destruction. Those not awakened by the judgments of God on others...
Read full commentary →And we utterly destroyed them, as we did unto Sihon king of Heshbon, utterly destroying the men, women, and children, of every city.
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
The phrase 'we utterly destroyed them, as we did unto Sihon' indicates the fulfillment of herem (devoted to destruction), applied consistently across conquered territories. The comprehensive nature—'utterly destroying the men, women, and children, of every city'—reflects God's judgment on deeply corrupted Canaanite culture. This severe measure prevented the moral and spiritual contamination that w...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(6) **We utterly destroyed them.**—Devoted them, made them *chêrem, *as above (Deuteronomy 2:34).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**7-9. north border--**The principal difficulty in understanding the description here arises from what our translators have called mount Hor. The Hebrew words, however, Hor-ha-Hor, properly signify "the mountain of the mountain," or "the high double mountain," which, from the situation, can mean nothing else than the mountain Amana (So 4:8), a member of the great Lebanon range (Jos 13:5).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 3
Chapter Outline
The conquest of Og king of Bashan.(1-11)
The land of Gilead and Bashan.(12-20)
Moses encourages Joshua.(21-29)
**Verses 1-11**
Og was very powerful, but he did not take warning by the ruin of Sihon, and desire conditions of peace. He trusted his own strength, and so was hardened to his destruction. Those not awakened by the judgments of God on others...
Read full commentary →But all the cattle, and the spoil of the cities, we took for a prey to ourselves.
View commentary (3 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
The exception clause 'But all the cattle, and the spoil of the cities, we took for a prey to ourselves' shows that while human life was judged, material resources were preserved for Israel's use. This distinction reveals that herem targeted moral corruption, not economic destruction. God's provision included utilizing the enemy's resources to bless His people—turning judgment on evil into blessing...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**7-9. north border--**The principal difficulty in understanding the description here arises from what our translators have called mount Hor. The Hebrew words, however, Hor-ha-Hor, properly signify "the mountain of the mountain," or "the high double mountain," which, from the situation, can mean nothing else than the mountain Amana (So 4:8), a member of the great Lebanon range (Jos 13:5).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 3
Chapter Outline
The conquest of Og king of Bashan.(1-11)
The land of Gilead and Bashan.(12-20)
Moses encourages Joshua.(21-29)
**Verses 1-11**
Og was very powerful, but he did not take warning by the ruin of Sihon, and desire conditions of peace. He trusted his own strength, and so was hardened to his destruction. Those not awakened by the judgments of God on others...
Read full commentary →And we took at that time out of the hand of the two kings of the Amorites the land that was on this side Jordan, from the river of Arnon unto mount Hermon;
View commentary (3 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
Moses' summary—'we took at that time out of the hand of the two kings of the Amorites the land'—emphasizes the transfer of territorial control from Amorite to Israelite hands. The geographical markers 'from the river of Arnon unto mount Hermon' define the full extent of the Transjordan conquest. Specific boundaries demonstrate that God's promises involve concrete, measurable fulfillments, not vagu...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**10-12. east border--**This is very clearly defined. Shepham and Riblah, which were in the valley of Lebanon, are mentioned as the boundary line, which commenced a little higher than the sources of the Jordan. Ain is supposed to be the source of that river; and thence the eastern boundary extended along the Jordan, the sea of Chinnereth (Lake of Tiberias), the Jordan; and again terminated at the ...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 3
Chapter Outline
The conquest of Og king of Bashan.(1-11)
The land of Gilead and Bashan.(12-20)
Moses encourages Joshua.(21-29)
**Verses 1-11**
Og was very powerful, but he did not take warning by the ruin of Sihon, and desire conditions of peace. He trusted his own strength, and so was hardened to his destruction. Those not awakened by the judgments of God on others...
Read full commentary →( Which Hermon the Sidonians call Sirion; and the Amorites call it Shenir;)
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
<strong>(Which Hermon the Sidonians call Sirion; and the Amorites call it Shenir;)</strong> This parenthetical note provides geographical and linguistic detail about Mount Hermon, demonstrating Moses' comprehensive knowledge of the region Israel would inherit. The Hebrew word <em>Siryon</em> (שִׂרְיֹן) means "breastplate" or "coat of mail," possibly referencing the mountain's snow-covered appearan...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(9) **Sirion.**—(*Sion*,Deut.448.) Sirion, or Shirion, and Shenir, are thought to have similar meanings. But the Targum inteprets Shenir as the “rock of snow.” Shirion, according to Gesenius, means “glittering like a breastplate.” It would not be safe to assert that the mention of the *Sidonian *name of Hermon makes this verse an addition after Israel was in Palestine, though it might be so. The J...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**10-12. east border--**This is very clearly defined. Shepham and Riblah, which were in the valley of Lebanon, are mentioned as the boundary line, which commenced a little higher than the sources of the Jordan. Ain is supposed to be the source of that river; and thence the eastern boundary extended along the Jordan, the sea of Chinnereth (Lake of Tiberias), the Jordan; and again terminated at the ...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 3
Chapter Outline
The conquest of Og king of Bashan.(1-11)
The land of Gilead and Bashan.(12-20)
Moses encourages Joshua.(21-29)
**Verses 1-11**
Og was very powerful, but he did not take warning by the ruin of Sihon, and desire conditions of peace. He trusted his own strength, and so was hardened to his destruction. Those not awakened by the judgments of God on others...
Read full commentary →All the cities of the plain, and all Gilead, and all Bashan, unto Salchah and Edrei, cities of the kingdom of Og in Bashan.
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
The comprehensive description 'All the cities of the plain, and all Gilead, and all Bashan' emphasizes totality of conquest. Listing specific territories (the plain, Gilead, Bashan) documents the full extent of possession. Mentioning the northern border cities 'Salchah and Edrei' provides concrete verification. This detailed record serves as testimony to God's faithfulness—specific names and place...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(10) **Salchah.**—“The present large town *Salkhâd, *east of Bashan” (*Conder*)*. *(See also *Giant Cities of Bashan, *p. 75.)
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**10-12. east border--**This is very clearly defined. Shepham and Riblah, which were in the valley of Lebanon, are mentioned as the boundary line, which commenced a little higher than the sources of the Jordan. Ain is supposed to be the source of that river; and thence the eastern boundary extended along the Jordan, the sea of Chinnereth (Lake of Tiberias), the Jordan; and again terminated at the ...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 3
Chapter Outline
The conquest of Og king of Bashan.(1-11)
The land of Gilead and Bashan.(12-20)
Moses encourages Joshua.(21-29)
**Verses 1-11**
Og was very powerful, but he did not take warning by the ruin of Sihon, and desire conditions of peace. He trusted his own strength, and so was hardened to his destruction. Those not awakened by the judgments of God on others...
Read full commentary →For only Og king of Bashan remained of the remnant of giants; behold, his bedstead was a bedstead of iron; is it not in Rabbath of the children of Ammon? nine cubits was the length thereof, and four cubits the breadth of it, after the cubit of a man.
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
The parenthetical note about Og's bedstead—'only Og king of Bashan remained of the remnant of giants'—highlights his exceptional size and the magnitude of Israel's victory. The iron bedstead measuring 'nine cubits... in length' (13.5 feet) was preserved in Rabbath as physical evidence. Archaeological detail grounds the narrative in history, showing this wasn't mythology but actual events. God's po...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(11) **Of the remnant of giants**—i.e., of the nation of Rephaim in these parts. (See Note on Genesis 14:5.)
**His bedstead.**—The word may mean either bedstead or coffin. Both the word for “bedstead” and the word for “iron” have given rise to some discussion and difficulty. An iron bedstead and an iron coffin are almost equally improbable. *Basalt *has been suggested as an alternative. But though...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**13-15. The two tribes and the half-tribe have received their inheritance on this side Jordan--**The conquered territories of Sihon and Og, lying between the Arnon and mount Hermon, were allotted to them--that of Reuben in the most southerly part, Gad north of it, and the half Manasseh in the northernmost portion.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 3
Chapter Outline
The conquest of Og king of Bashan.(1-11)
The land of Gilead and Bashan.(12-20)
Moses encourages Joshua.(21-29)
**Verses 1-11**
Og was very powerful, but he did not take warning by the ruin of Sihon, and desire conditions of peace. He trusted his own strength, and so was hardened to his destruction. Those not awakened by the judgments of God on others...
Read full commentary →Land Divided East of the Jordan
And this land, which we possessed at that time, from Aroer, which is by the river Arnon, and half mount Gilead, and the cities thereof, gave I unto the Reubenites and to the Gadites.
View commentary (3 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
Moses' distribution of the conquered land 'at that time' shows prompt fulfillment of God's promises. Giving territory 'unto the Reubenites and to the Gadites' honored these tribes' request (Numbers 32) while ensuring they fulfilled military obligations. The specific boundaries 'from Aroer... by the river Arnon, and half mount Gilead' provide clear property lines. Just land distribution reflects Go...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**13-15. The two tribes and the half-tribe have received their inheritance on this side Jordan--**The conquered territories of Sihon and Og, lying between the Arnon and mount Hermon, were allotted to them--that of Reuben in the most southerly part, Gad north of it, and the half Manasseh in the northernmost portion.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 12-20**
This country was settled on the Reubenites, Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh: see Nu 32. Moses repeats the condition of the grant to which they agreed. When at rest, we should desire to see our brethren at rest too, and should be ready to do what we can towards it; for we are not born for ourselves, but are members one of another.
And the rest of Gilead, and all Bashan, being the kingdom of Og, gave I unto the half tribe of Manasseh; all the region of Argob, with all Bashan, which was called the land of giants.
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
The allocation 'unto the Reubenites and unto the Gadites I gave from Gilead even unto the river Arnon' establishes clear tribal boundaries. The phrase 'half the valley, and the border' provides precise demarcation to prevent future disputes. The mention of 'even unto the river Jabbok, which is the border of the children of Ammon' respects the boundaries God set for other nations. Proper boundaries...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(13-17) Comp. Numbers 32:33-42, and Notes thereon,
(13) **The land of giants**—i.e., of Rephaim.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**13-15. The two tribes and the half-tribe have received their inheritance on this side Jordan--**The conquered territories of Sihon and Og, lying between the Arnon and mount Hermon, were allotted to them--that of Reuben in the most southerly part, Gad north of it, and the half Manasseh in the northernmost portion.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 12-20**
This country was settled on the Reubenites, Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh: see Nu 32. Moses repeats the condition of the grant to which they agreed. When at rest, we should desire to see our brethren at rest too, and should be ready to do what we can towards it; for we are not born for ourselves, but are members one of another.
Jair the son of Manasseh took all the country of Argob unto the coasts of Geshuri and Maachathi; and called them after his own name, Bashanhavothjair , unto this day.
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
The description 'all Bashan, being the kingdom of Og' going to 'half the tribe of Manasseh' shows substantial inheritance for this half-tribe. The alternative names for the region ('Argob... called... the land of giants') connect geography with history. The naming 'after his own name, Bashanhavothjair' preserves Jair's legacy, showing that faithful service leaves lasting impact. God allows His peo...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(14) **Jair took . . . unto this day.**—The last words of this chapter seem to point to a later hand, as of Joshua, describing the completion of the conquest. The expression “unto this day” is characteristically common in Joshua, or in the editorial notes inserted throughout that book. (See *Introduction *to Joshua, “On the Style of the Book.”)
**Geshuri and Maachathi**—*i.e., *the Geshurite and t...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**16-29. names of the men ... which shall divide the land--**This appointment by the Lord before the Jordan tended not only to animate the Israelites faith in the certainty of the conquest, but to prevent all subsequent dispute and discontent, which might have been dangerous in presence of the natives. The nominees were ten princes for the nine and a half tribes, one of them being selected from th...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 12-20**
This country was settled on the Reubenites, Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh: see Nu 32. Moses repeats the condition of the grant to which they agreed. When at rest, we should desire to see our brethren at rest too, and should be ready to do what we can towards it; for we are not born for ourselves, but are members one of another.
And I gave Gilead unto Machir.
View commentary (3 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
The simple statement 'I gave Gilead unto Machir' allocates prime territory to Machir, Manasseh's son (Numbers 32:39-40). Gilead was known for balm (Jeremiah 8:22) and became synonymous with healing and prosperity. This gift represents God's generous provision—the best lands to faithful families. God delights in blessing His people abundantly, not grudgingly.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**16-29. names of the men ... which shall divide the land--**This appointment by the Lord before the Jordan tended not only to animate the Israelites faith in the certainty of the conquest, but to prevent all subsequent dispute and discontent, which might have been dangerous in presence of the natives. The nominees were ten princes for the nine and a half tribes, one of them being selected from th...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 12-20**
This country was settled on the Reubenites, Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh: see Nu 32. Moses repeats the condition of the grant to which they agreed. When at rest, we should desire to see our brethren at rest too, and should be ready to do what we can towards it; for we are not born for ourselves, but are members one of another.
And unto the Reubenites and unto the Gadites I gave from Gilead even unto the river Arnon half the valley, and the border even unto the river Jabbok, which is the border of the children of Ammon;
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
The detailed boundary description for Reuben and Gad—'from Gilead unto the river Arnon half the valley, and the border even unto the river Jabbok'—provides clear property rights. The phrase 'the middle of the river' as a border shows practical wisdom in boundary-setting. Clear boundaries prevent disputes and preserve peace. God values both generosity in giving and clarity in defining what's given.
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(16, 17) **And unto the Reubenites and unto the Gadites I gave.**—The circumstances are detailed in Numbers 32. They desired the land for their cattle.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**16-29. names of the men ... which shall divide the land--**This appointment by the Lord before the Jordan tended not only to animate the Israelites faith in the certainty of the conquest, but to prevent all subsequent dispute and discontent, which might have been dangerous in presence of the natives. The nominees were ten princes for the nine and a half tribes, one of them being selected from th...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 12-20**
This country was settled on the Reubenites, Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh: see Nu 32. Moses repeats the condition of the grant to which they agreed. When at rest, we should desire to see our brethren at rest too, and should be ready to do what we can towards it; for we are not born for ourselves, but are members one of another.
The plain also, and Jordan, and the coast thereof, from Chinnereth even unto the sea of the plain, even the salt sea, under Ashdothpisgah eastward. Ashdothpisgah; or, the springs of Pisgah, or, the hill
View commentary (3 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
The description 'The plain also, and Jordan, and the coast thereof' details the western boundary along the Jordan River valley. Mentioning specific locations 'from Chinnereth even unto the sea of the plain... Ashdothpisgah' provides precise geographical markers. The 'salt sea' (Dead Sea) marks the southern extreme. These details ensure accurate inheritance understanding and demonstrate God's atten...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**16-29. names of the men ... which shall divide the land--**This appointment by the Lord before the Jordan tended not only to animate the Israelites faith in the certainty of the conquest, but to prevent all subsequent dispute and discontent, which might have been dangerous in presence of the natives. The nominees were ten princes for the nine and a half tribes, one of them being selected from th...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 12-20**
This country was settled on the Reubenites, Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh: see Nu 32. Moses repeats the condition of the grant to which they agreed. When at rest, we should desire to see our brethren at rest too, and should be ready to do what we can towards it; for we are not born for ourselves, but are members one of another.
And I commanded you at that time, saying, The LORD your God hath given you this land to possess it: ye shall pass over armed before your brethren the children of Israel, all that are meet for the war. meet: Heb. sons of power
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
Moses' charge to the Transjordan tribes—'I commanded you at that time'—establishes their obligation despite receiving inheritance first. God's promise that He 'hath given you this land to possess it' came with responsibility: 'ye shall pass over armed before your brethren.' Blessing brings duty. Those who receive first must help others obtain their inheritance. This principle of serving others fro...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(18, 19) This is a summary of the agreement made and described in Numbers 32:20—-32. (See also Note on Joshua 1:12.)
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**16-29. names of the men ... which shall divide the land--**This appointment by the Lord before the Jordan tended not only to animate the Israelites faith in the certainty of the conquest, but to prevent all subsequent dispute and discontent, which might have been dangerous in presence of the natives. The nominees were ten princes for the nine and a half tribes, one of them being selected from th...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 12-20**
This country was settled on the Reubenites, Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh: see Nu 32. Moses repeats the condition of the grant to which they agreed. When at rest, we should desire to see our brethren at rest too, and should be ready to do what we can towards it; for we are not born for ourselves, but are members one of another.
But your wives, and your little ones, and your cattle, ( for I know that ye have much cattle,) shall abide in your cities which I have given you;
View commentary (3 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
The exception 'But your wives, and your little ones, and your cattle... shall abide in your cities' shows compassionate provision. God doesn't require impossible burdens—families could stay in security while fighting men fulfilled their obligation. The parenthetical acknowledgment '(for I know that ye have much cattle)' recognizes their specific circumstances. God's commands account for practical ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**16-29. names of the men ... which shall divide the land--**This appointment by the Lord before the Jordan tended not only to animate the Israelites faith in the certainty of the conquest, but to prevent all subsequent dispute and discontent, which might have been dangerous in presence of the natives. The nominees were ten princes for the nine and a half tribes, one of them being selected from th...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 12-20**
This country was settled on the Reubenites, Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh: see Nu 32. Moses repeats the condition of the grant to which they agreed. When at rest, we should desire to see our brethren at rest too, and should be ready to do what we can towards it; for we are not born for ourselves, but are members one of another.
Until the LORD have given rest unto your brethren, as well as unto you, and until they also possess the land which the LORD your God hath given them beyond Jordan: and then shall ye return every man unto his possession, which I have given you.
View commentary (3 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
The promise 'Until the LORD have given rest unto your brethren, as well as unto you' establishes the time limit for military service—until all tribes possess their inheritance. The phrase 'they also possess the land which the LORD your God hath given them' emphasizes corporate blessing—everyone receives what God promised. The release 'then shall ye return every man unto his possession' assures the...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**16-29. names of the men ... which shall divide the land--**This appointment by the Lord before the Jordan tended not only to animate the Israelites faith in the certainty of the conquest, but to prevent all subsequent dispute and discontent, which might have been dangerous in presence of the natives. The nominees were ten princes for the nine and a half tribes, one of them being selected from th...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 12-20**
This country was settled on the Reubenites, Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh: see Nu 32. Moses repeats the condition of the grant to which they agreed. When at rest, we should desire to see our brethren at rest too, and should be ready to do what we can towards it; for we are not born for ourselves, but are members one of another.
And I commanded Joshua at that time, saying, Thine eyes have seen all that the LORD your God hath done unto these two kings: so shall the LORD do unto all the kingdoms whither thou passest.
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KJV Study Commentary
Moses' encouragement to Joshua—'Thine eyes have seen all that the LORD your God hath done'—grounds future faith in past evidence. Joshua witnessed Egypt's plagues, Red Sea crossing, Sinai revelation, and recent Transjordan victories. The promise 'so shall the LORD do unto all the kingdoms whither thou passest' assures consistent divine faithfulness. God's character doesn't change with circumstance...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(21, 22) **I commanded Joshua at that time. . . . Thine eyes have seen.**—“Thine eyes are the witnesses of all,” &c. The conquest of Sihon and Og, as well as that of Amalek, was to be impressed upon Joshua (comp. Exodus 17:14) as a precedent for his encouragement, and also for his instruction. It is remarkable that no details are given us of the battles against Sihon and Og, or of the capture of t...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**16-29. names of the men ... which shall divide the land--**This appointment by the Lord before the Jordan tended not only to animate the Israelites faith in the certainty of the conquest, but to prevent all subsequent dispute and discontent, which might have been dangerous in presence of the natives. The nominees were ten princes for the nine and a half tribes, one of them being selected from th...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 21-29**
Moses encouraged Joshua, who was to succeed him. Thus the aged and experienced in the service of God, should do all they can to strengthen the hands of those who are young, and setting out in religion. Consider what God has done, what God has promised. If God be for us, who can be against us, so as to prevail? We reproach our Leader if we follow him trembling. Moses prayed, th...
Read full commentary →Ye shall not fear them: for the LORD your God he shall fight for you.
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KJV Study Commentary
The command 'Ye shall not fear them' directly addresses the natural human response to overwhelming opposition. The reason—'for the LORD your God he shall fight for you'—shifts focus from human weakness to divine strength. This isn't denial of difficulty but recognition that ultimate power doesn't rest with us. When God commits to fighting for His people, the outcome is certain regardless of appare...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**16-29. names of the men ... which shall divide the land--**This appointment by the Lord before the Jordan tended not only to animate the Israelites faith in the certainty of the conquest, but to prevent all subsequent dispute and discontent, which might have been dangerous in presence of the natives. The nominees were ten princes for the nine and a half tribes, one of them being selected from th...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 21-29**
Moses encouraged Joshua, who was to succeed him. Thus the aged and experienced in the service of God, should do all they can to strengthen the hands of those who are young, and setting out in religion. Consider what God has done, what God has promised. If God be for us, who can be against us, so as to prevail? We reproach our Leader if we follow him trembling. Moses prayed, th...
Read full commentary →Moses Forbidden to Cross the Jordan
And I besought the LORD at that time, saying,
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KJV Study Commentary
Moses' personal plea—'I besought the LORD at that time'—reveals his deep longing to enter Canaan. Despite 40 years of faithful leadership, Moses desperately wanted to complete the journey with his people. The timing 'at that time' (after Transjordan victories) shows that even seeing partial fulfillment intensified his desire for full completion. Godly leaders care deeply about finishing well, not ...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(23) Here begins the second section according to the Jewish division, called “And I besought” (*vaeth channân*)*.*
(23-28) **And I besought the Lord at that time.**—Two things Moses is recorded to have asked *for himself *in the story of the exodus. The first is written in Exodus 33:18, “I beseech thee shew me thy glory;” the second is before us here. “O Lord GOD (Adonai Jehovah), thou hast begun ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**16-29. names of the men ... which shall divide the land--**This appointment by the Lord before the Jordan tended not only to animate the Israelites faith in the certainty of the conquest, but to prevent all subsequent dispute and discontent, which might have been dangerous in presence of the natives. The nominees were ten princes for the nine and a half tribes, one of them being selected from th...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 21-29**
Moses encouraged Joshua, who was to succeed him. Thus the aged and experienced in the service of God, should do all they can to strengthen the hands of those who are young, and setting out in religion. Consider what God has done, what God has promised. If God be for us, who can be against us, so as to prevail? We reproach our Leader if we follow him trembling. Moses prayed, th...
Read full commentary →O Lord GOD, thou hast begun to shew thy servant thy greatness, and thy mighty hand: for what God is there in heaven or in earth, that can do according to thy works, and according to thy might?
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KJV Study Commentary
Moses's prayer reveals profound theology and personal anguish. The address <strong>אֲדֹנָי יְהוִה</strong> (Adonai YHWH, 'Lord GOD') combines two divine titles—sovereign master and covenant name—expressing both reverence and intimacy. The phrase <strong>אַתָּה הַחִלּוֹתָ</strong> (attah hachilota, 'You have begun') is significant—God initiated revealing His greatness to Moses, suggesting there's i...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**16-29. names of the men ... which shall divide the land--**This appointment by the Lord before the Jordan tended not only to animate the Israelites faith in the certainty of the conquest, but to prevent all subsequent dispute and discontent, which might have been dangerous in presence of the natives. The nominees were ten princes for the nine and a half tribes, one of them being selected from th...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 21-29**
Moses encouraged Joshua, who was to succeed him. Thus the aged and experienced in the service of God, should do all they can to strengthen the hands of those who are young, and setting out in religion. Consider what God has done, what God has promised. If God be for us, who can be against us, so as to prevail? We reproach our Leader if we follow him trembling. Moses prayed, th...
Read full commentary →I pray thee, let me go over, and see the good land that is beyond Jordan, that goodly mountain, and Lebanon.
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KJV Study Commentary
Moses' specific request—'I pray thee, let me go over, and see the good land that is beyond Jordan'—expresses humble petitionary prayer. Describing it as 'that goodly mountain, and Lebanon' shows Moses' genuine appreciation for the land's beauty and God's promise. The phrase 'I pray thee' demonstrates that even after 40 years of intimate communion with God, Moses approached Him with reverence and h...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**16-29. names of the men ... which shall divide the land--**This appointment by the Lord before the Jordan tended not only to animate the Israelites faith in the certainty of the conquest, but to prevent all subsequent dispute and discontent, which might have been dangerous in presence of the natives. The nominees were ten princes for the nine and a half tribes, one of them being selected from th...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 21-29**
Moses encouraged Joshua, who was to succeed him. Thus the aged and experienced in the service of God, should do all they can to strengthen the hands of those who are young, and setting out in religion. Consider what God has done, what God has promised. If God be for us, who can be against us, so as to prevail? We reproach our Leader if we follow him trembling. Moses prayed, th...
Read full commentary →But the LORD was wroth with me for your sakes, and would not hear me: and the LORD said unto me, Let it suffice thee; speak no more unto me of this matter.
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KJV Study Commentary
God's response—'the LORD was wroth with me for your sakes'—reveals that Moses' consequences resulted from Israel's provocation. The command 'would not hear me' shows even persistent, passionate prayer doesn't guarantee the answer we desire. God's refusal 'speak no more unto me of this matter' establishes boundaries—some decisions are final. Submission to God's 'no' is as important as faith for His...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(26) **For your sakes.**—Because “I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me, and before all the people I will be glorified” (Leviticus 10:3; Numbers 20:12-13); And also because the death of Moses and the succession of Joshua were “for a testimony of things to be spoken after,” a figure of things to come. Moses, like Ezekiel (Deuteronomy 24:15-22), was made a sign.
(26) **Let it suffice thee.*...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**16-29. names of the men ... which shall divide the land--**This appointment by the Lord before the Jordan tended not only to animate the Israelites faith in the certainty of the conquest, but to prevent all subsequent dispute and discontent, which might have been dangerous in presence of the natives. The nominees were ten princes for the nine and a half tribes, one of them being selected from th...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 21-29**
Moses encouraged Joshua, who was to succeed him. Thus the aged and experienced in the service of God, should do all they can to strengthen the hands of those who are young, and setting out in religion. Consider what God has done, what God has promised. If God be for us, who can be against us, so as to prevail? We reproach our Leader if we follow him trembling. Moses prayed, th...
Read full commentary →Get thee up into the top of Pisgah, and lift up thine eyes westward, and northward, and southward, and eastward, and behold it with thine eyes: for thou shalt not go over this Jordan. Pisgah: or, the hill
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
God's alternative provision—'Get thee up into the top of Pisgah'—offers Moses something rather than nothing. Though he couldn't enter, he could see the land from 'westward, and northward, and southward, and eastward.' The comprehensive view from Pisgah allowed Moses to witness the fulfillment of God's promise, even if he couldn't personally possess it. God's grace provides meaningful alternatives ...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(27) **Northward, and southward.**—Southward, literally, *Teman-ward. *The *negeb, *or “south” of Palestine, is not named here.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**16-29. names of the men ... which shall divide the land--**This appointment by the Lord before the Jordan tended not only to animate the Israelites faith in the certainty of the conquest, but to prevent all subsequent dispute and discontent, which might have been dangerous in presence of the natives. The nominees were ten princes for the nine and a half tribes, one of them being selected from th...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 21-29**
Moses encouraged Joshua, who was to succeed him. Thus the aged and experienced in the service of God, should do all they can to strengthen the hands of those who are young, and setting out in religion. Consider what God has done, what God has promised. If God be for us, who can be against us, so as to prevail? We reproach our Leader if we follow him trembling. Moses prayed, th...
Read full commentary →But charge Joshua, and encourage him, and strengthen him: for he shall go over before this people, and he shall cause them to inherit the land which thou shalt see.
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KJV Study Commentary
God's command to Moses—'charge Joshua, and encourage him, and strengthen him'—shifts focus from personal disappointment to investing in the next generation. Moses must actively prepare his successor through specific charge (instruction), encouragement (emotional support), and strengthening (confidence-building). The reason 'for he shall go over before this people... cause them to inherit' emphasiz...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(28) **For he shall go over.**—Emphatic, *he it is that shall go over, and he it is that shall make them to inherit; *not Moses.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 21-29**
Moses encouraged Joshua, who was to succeed him. Thus the aged and experienced in the service of God, should do all they can to strengthen the hands of those who are young, and setting out in religion. Consider what God has done, what God has promised. If God be for us, who can be against us, so as to prevail? We reproach our Leader if we follow him trembling. Moses prayed, th...
Read full commentary →So we abode in the valley over against Bethpeor.
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KJV Study Commentary
The geographical note 'So we abode in the valley over against Bethpeor' marks Israel's location during Moses' farewell address. Bethpeor's mention (site of Baal-peor incident, Numbers 25) serves as a sobering reminder of past failure, making Moses' warnings more poignant. Staying 'in the valley' suggests a period of waiting and preparation before the next phase. God often uses waiting periods to t...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(29) **So we abode in the valley over against Beth-peor.**—Moses’ burial-place, as appears by Deuteronomy 34:6. It is a significant finishing touch to the scene described above. This verse also concludes the recapitulation of Israel’s journey from Horeb (Deuteronomy 1:6) to the banks of Jordan, with which this first discourse of Moses begins. The remainder, contained in Deut. Iv., is the practical...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 21-29**
Moses encouraged Joshua, who was to succeed him. Thus the aged and experienced in the service of God, should do all they can to strengthen the hands of those who are young, and setting out in religion. Consider what God has done, what God has promised. If God be for us, who can be against us, so as to prevail? We reproach our Leader if we follow him trembling. Moses prayed, th...
Read full commentary →