“And all the cities of the plain, and all the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites, which reigned in Heshbon, whom Moses smote with the princes of Midian, Evi, and Rekem, and Zur, and Hur, and Reba, which were dukes of Sihon, dwelling in the country.”
Context:To understand Joshua 13:21, we need to consider the broader context. The book of Joshua details the conquest of the Promised Land by the Israelites under Joshua’s leadership after the death of Moses. In this particular chapter, the division of the conquered land among the tribes of Israel is being described.
Historical Background:Before entering the Promised Land, the Israelites had encountered various nations and kings. The Amorites, led by King Sihon, were one such group. Moses had fought against King Sihon and his allies, including Evi, Rekem, Zur, Hur, and Reba, who were dukes or chiefs under Sihon’s authority.
Divine Judgment:Joshua 13:21 mentions that Moses “smote” these kings or chiefs. This refers to the defeat and conquest of Sihon and his allies by the Israelites. It is important to note that throughout the conquest, the Israelites were acting under God’s command, as He had promised to give them the land of Canaan. This event highlights God’s judgment upon the Amorites and their kings for their wickedness and idolatry.
God’s Faithfulness:The mention of this victory over the Amorite kings in Joshua 13:21 serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness to His covenant with the Israelites. God had promised to give them the land of Canaan, and He was fulfilling His promise by allowing them to conquer the nations that inhabited it. The defeat of Sihon and his allies was evidence of God’s presence and power with the Israelites.
Historical Significance:This verse carries historical significance as it marks a significant milestone in the Israelites’ journey to possess the Promised Land. It emphasizes the territorial extent of their conquests, specifically referencing the cities in the plain and the kingdom of Sihon.
Spiritual Lessons:While this verse primarily provides historical information, it can also teach us valuable spiritual lessons. It reminds us of the consequences of disobedience and idolatry, as the Amorites and their kings faced divine judgment for their actions. It also reinforces the importance of trusting in God’s promises and relying on His faithfulness.
In conclusion:Joshua 13:21 recounts the defeat of the Amorite kings by Moses and the Israelites as part of their conquest of the Promised Land. It serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness to His covenant, His judgment upon the wicked, and the historical significance of the events that unfolded during the Israelites’ possession of the land.
