Deuteronomy 3:4

And we tooke all his cities at that time, there was not a citie which wee tooke not from them; threescore cities, all the region of Argob, the kingdome of Og in Bashan. Deuteronomy 3:4 (KJV)

The book of Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Pentateuch, traditionally attributed to Moses. It consists primarily of Moses’ farewell address to the Israelites before they entered the Promised Land. In this verse, Moses recounts the victories of the Israelites over King Og of Bashan and the conquest of his cities.

Prior to this verse, Moses records how the Israelites defeated Sihon, the king of the Amorites, and took possession of his land (Deuteronomy 2:24‑36). After that triumph they turned their attention to Og, the king of Bashan, who ruled a region east of the Jordan River.

In Deuteronomy 3:1‑3 Moses describes the battle with Og and the Israelites’ decisive victory. Verse 4 states that during that time the Israelites captured sixty cities in the region of Argob, which formed part of Og’s kingdom. The expression “threescore cities” confirms the number sixty and demonstrates the great extent of the Israelites’ conquest and the land they gained.

While Deuteronomy 3:4 primarily records a historical event, it also points to spiritual truths. The capture of these cities symbolizes the fulfillment of God’s promise to give the Israelites the land east of the Jordan as part of their inheritance, underscoring God’s faithfulness to the covenant made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The victory highlights the importance of trusting in God’s strength and provision when facing challenges; the Israelites overcame seemingly unconquerable cities because they relied on God’s power rather than their own. This reminds believers to depend on God’s promises, confident that He will supply the strength and resources needed for their battles.

The passage also stresses obedience to God’s commands. The Israelites were victorious because they followed God’s instructions and remained faithful to His covenant. This serves as a lesson to be obedient to God’s Word, knowing that He rewards those who diligently seek Him and walk in His ways.

In summary, Deuteronomy 3:4 recounts the conquest of sixty cities in the region of Argob as part of the Israelites’ triumph over King Og of Bashan. Though it describes a historical event, it offers enduring spiritual lessons: trust in God’s strength, rely on His provision, and obey His commands.