King James Version
What Does Deuteronomy 2:18 Mean?
“Thou art to pass over through Ar, the coast of Moab, this day:”
Deuteronomy 2:18 · KJV
Context
16
So it came to pass, when all the men of war were consumed and dead from among the people,
17
That the LORD spake unto me, saying,
18
Thou art to pass over through Ar, the coast of Moab, this day:
19
And when thou comest nigh over against the children of Ammon, distress them not, nor meddle with them: for I will not give thee of the land of the children of Ammon any possession; because I have given it unto the children of Lot for a possession.
20
(That also was accounted a land of giants: giants dwelt therein in old time; and the Ammonites call them Zamzummims;
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThe geographical marker 'Thou art to pass over through Ar, the coast of Moab, this day' provides specific direction for Israel's movement. The precision of 'this day' emphasizes the immediacy of obedience—when God says 'now,' delayed response equals disobedience. The route through Ar (Moabite territory) required continued restraint despite approaching the promised land. God's paths sometimes lead through territories we must respect but not claim.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Ar was a major Moabite city in the region. Passing through required diplomatic navigation—Israel couldn't conquer Moab but needed passage rights. This tested Israel's obedience to distinguish between what God gave them (Transjordan Amorite lands) and what He reserved for others (Moab, Edom, Ammon). Selective conquest demonstrated divine direction, not merely opportunistic expansion.
Reflection Questions
- What territories in your life require passage through but not possession?
- How do you maintain restraint when opportunity presents itself but God hasn't granted permission?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 8 wordsעֹבֵ֥ר2 of 8
“Thou art to pass over”
H5674to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in
הַיּ֛וֹם3 of 8
“this day”
H3117a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
אֶת4 of 8
H853properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
גְּב֥וּל5 of 8
“the coast”
H1366properly, a cord (as twisted), i.e., (by implication) a boundary; by extension the territory inclosed
אֶת7 of 8
H853properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Deuteronomy. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Deuteronomy 2:18 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Deuteronomy 2:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge