King James Version
What Does Deuteronomy 2:32 Mean?
“Then Sihon came out against us, he and all his people, to fight at Jahaz.”
Deuteronomy 2:32 · KJV
Context
30
But Sihon king of Heshbon would not let us pass by him: for the LORD thy God hardened his spirit, and made his heart obstinate, that he might deliver him into thy hand, as appeareth this day.
31
And the LORD said unto me, Behold, I have begun to give Sihon and his land before thee: begin to possess, that thou mayest inherit his land.
32
Then Sihon came out against us, he and all his people, to fight at Jahaz.
33
And the LORD our God delivered him before us; and we smote him, and his sons, and all his people.
34
And we took all his cities at that time, and utterly destroyed the men, and the women, and the little ones, of every city, we left none to remain: the men: Heb. every city of men, and women, and little ones
Commentary
KJV Study CommentarySihon's mobilization of 'all his people to battle' demonstrates total commitment to resist Israel. The specific location 'at Jahaz' allows historical verification. The phrase 'came out against us' emphasizes that Sihon initiated hostilities—Israel's warfare was defensive and divinely authorized. This distinction matters theologically and ethically—God's people don't seek conquest for conquest's sake but defend themselves and claim what God has given.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Jahaz's location in southern Transjordan placed it strategically between Moab and Sihon's kingdom. The battle's decisiveness meant total Israelite victory despite Sihon fielding his entire military force. Numbers 21:24 adds that Israel 'smote him with the edge of the sword, and possessed his land,' fulfilling God's promise exactly.
Reflection Questions
- How do you distinguish between godly defense and ungodly aggression in your conflicts?
- What assurance do you have that your battles align with God's purposes rather than personal ambition?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 8 wordsוַיֵּצֵא֩1 of 8
“came out”
H3318to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim
לִקְרָאתֵ֜נוּ3 of 8
“against”
H7125an encountering, accidental, friendly or hostile (also adverbially, opposite)
ה֧וּא4 of 8
H1931he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
וְכָל5 of 8
H3605properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
עַמּ֛וֹ6 of 8
“us he and all his people”
H5971a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
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 2:32 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 2:32 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge