Deuteronomy 4:47
And they possessed his land, and the land of Og king of Bashan, two kings of the Amorites, which were on this side Iordan toward the sun rising, Deuteronomy 4:47 (KJV)
Moses, as he prepares the people to enter the Promised Land, recalls the victories over the Amorite kings Sihon and Og. In this brief quotation he reminds the Israelites of the concrete results of God’s leading and the tangible lands that now belong to them.
Throughout Deuteronomy Moses emphasizes divine providence. The verse underscores that it was God who enabled the Israelites to possess the land of Og king of Bashan, highlighting divine intervention in the conquest of Canaan. This reminder of God’s guiding hand reinforces the theme that every success in the journey is rooted in His protection and purpose.
The capture of Og’s territory also illustrates the fulfillment of the covenantal promise made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. By taking possession of these lands, the people see the tangible outworking of God’s pledge to give their descendants an inheritance, confirming that God remains faithful to His word and acts in His appointed timing.
The mention of defeating Og king of Bashan serves as a vivid illustration of Israel’s military victories under Moses’ leadership. It points to God’s power in delivering the nation from formidable foes and encourages the people to trust in His continued strength against future opposition.
Understanding the historical background enriches interpretation. The Amorites were among the peoples inhabiting Canaan, and their kings presented a significant obstacle to Israel’s settlement. Overcoming Sihon and Og demonstrates both the Israelites’ martial capability and their reliance on God’s covenantal guarantee.
The phrase “this side Jordan toward the sunrise” provides a precise geographical marker, locating the conquered territory east of the Jordan River. This detail helps readers situate the events within a real landscape, adding credibility to the narrative.
Overall, the passage—found in Deuteronomy 2:36‑37 and related verses—serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness, provision, and active role in Israel’s victories. It calls believers to remember past divine interventions as a source of encouragement and confidence for future challenges.
