Deuteronomy 2:36
From Aroer, which is by the brink of the river of Arnon, and from the city that is by the river, even unto Gilead, there was not one city too strong for us: the Lord our God delivered all unto us:
Deuteronomy 2:36 (KJV)
Context
This verse belongs to Moses’ farewell addresses to Israel, delivered on the plains of Moab before the people entered the Promised Land. Moses recounts the journey through the wilderness, reminding the Israelites of God’s covenant faithfulness, their history, and the commandments they are to follow.
In the preceding account, Moses describes Israel’s encounter with Sihon the Amorite. God commanded Israel to engage Sihon, and the LORD delivered him and his people into their hands. The geographical extent of the victory—from Aroer on the edge of the Arnon Valley, through the city in the valley, as far as Gilead—shows the completeness of what God accomplished for Israel.
Meaning
The Hebrew phrase often rendered “too strong” or “too high” refers to fortified cities with high walls that would normally be inaccessible or impregnable. Yet none of these could withstand Israel because God gave them the victory. The verse attributes the triumph entirely to the LORD, not to Israel’s military strength or strategy.
Israel took all of Sihon’s cities, utterly destroying the inhabitants while sparing the livestock and plunder. The account also notes that Israel did not enter lands God forbade, such as Ammon, demonstrating obedience to God’s specific commands. The victory was complete, yet it was governed by the boundaries God set.
Biblical connections
The territory Israel possessed east of the Jordan was later allotted to the tribes of Reuben and Gad (Deuteronomy 3:12). This historical record shows God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Israel, and it serves as a pattern of divine provision and the importance of obedience to God’s guidance.
Application
This verse emphasizes God’s faithfulness to fulfill His promises to the Israelites. It serves as a reminder of God’s provision and protection throughout their journey. The victories they experienced were not solely due to their own military strength or strategies but ultimately because of the Lord their God.
Trust in God’s deliverance: The Israelites’ victories were not accomplished by their own power but by the hand of God. It reminds us that when we face challenges, we can trust in God’s ability to deliver us.
God’s faithfulness: The verse highlights God’s faithfulness to fulfill His promises. Just as He was faithful to the Israelites, we can trust that God will be faithful to His promises in our lives.
God’s strength in our weakness: The Israelites faced cities that seemed insurmountable, but with God’s help, they were victorious. This reminds us that God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness, and He can overcome any obstacle we face.
Reflection
Deuteronomy 2:36 recounts the victories of the Israelites as they journeyed towards the Promised Land, emphasizing God’s faithfulness and His role in their triumphs. It encourages us to trust in God’s deliverance, rely on His faithfulness, and recognize His strength in our weaknesses.
