But Sihon King of Heshbon would not let vs passe by him: for the Lord thy God hardened his spirit, and made his heart obstinate, that hee might deliuer him into thy hand, as appeareth this day. Deuteronomy 2:30 (KJV)
This verse is part of Moses’ retelling of the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness, recounting their encounters with various kings and nations as they approached the Promised Land. Moses specifically refers to the encounter with Sihon, the king of Heshbon.
Resistance from Sihon: The text states that Sihon would not allow the Israelites to pass through his territory. Earlier passages record that the Israelites sought a peaceful passage and requested it, but Sihon refused.
Divine Intervention: The verse explains that the LORD hardened Sihon’s spirit and made his heart obstinate. This divine action indicates that God influenced Sihon’s disposition, leading to his refusal to grant passage.
Divine Purpose: The hardening of Sihon’s heart and spirit served a specific purpose—to deliver him into the hands of the children of Israel. The outcome was the victory of the Israelites over Sihon and his kingdom, fulfilling God’s promise to His people.
Theological Reflection: The passage raises important questions about God’s involvement in hardening a person’s heart. Scripture also records similar instances, such as God hardening Pharaoh’s heart during the Exodus, highlighting God’s sovereignty and His ability to use even resistant hearts for divine purposes.
Human Responsibility: While God’s hardening is presented, the texts also affirm human responsibility. Individuals retain free will and the ability to make choices; God’s hardening often responds to an existing disposition and serves to bring about His purposes.
Covenantal Faithfulness: In the case of Sihon, the hardening allowed God to deliver him into the hands of the Israelites, reminding believers of God’s faithfulness to His covenant and His commitment to fulfill His promises.
In summary, Deuteronomy 2:30 illustrates God’s sovereign control over human affairs. Though it raises questions about divine hardening, it ultimately emphasizes that God can work through human resistance to accomplish His purposes, and that His plans will prevail even in the face of opposition.
