Thou art to passe ouer thorow Ar, the coast of Moab, this day. Deuteronomy 2:18 (KJV)
The book of Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Old Testament and is attributed to Moses. It consists mainly of Moses’ speeches to the Israelites as they stand on the brink of entering the Promised Land. Chapter 2 records their journey from the wilderness toward Canaan, describing how they skirted the territories of Edom and Moab. Verse 18 focuses on the Israelites’ approach to Moab and gives them a precise instruction for that day.
“Thou art to pass over through Ar, the coast of Moab, this day.” The phrase “pass over” denotes a purposeful movement across a region, indicating a transition from one area to another. “Through Ar” identifies the city of Ar, which lay within Moabite territory, as the specific point of passage. “The coast of Moab” refers to the border or frontier of Moab, not a seacoast, and signals that the Israelites were to travel along the edge of that nation. The addition of “this day” stresses the immediacy of the command; the people were to begin the journey without delay.
The verse is immediately followed by a warning concerning the neighboring Ammonites: “When thou comest nigh over against the children of Ammon, thou shalt not meddle with them, nor fight with them; for I will not give thee of the land of the children of Ammon any possession; for I have given it unto the children of Lot for a possession.” This instruction reinforces the boundaries set by God, directing Israel to avoid conflict with the Ammonites whose inheritance had already been allotted to the descendants of Lot.
From a broader perspective, Deuteronomy 2:18 reminds the Israelites of the exact route they were to take as they drew near to Moab. It highlights the sovereignty of God’s guidance in their journey and underscores the importance of obedience to divine direction. By studying this passage we can reflect on the themes of trust and reliance on God’s leading in our own lives. Just as the Israelites were encouraged to follow God’s specific instructions through transitions and challenges, we too can find confidence that God provides direction and wisdom for every step of our journey.
Overall, this verse captures a pivotal moment in the march toward the Promised Land, emphasizing divine guidance, respect for allotted boundaries, and the faithful adherence required of God’s people as they move forward in faith.
