Deuteronomy 3:5
All these cities were fenced with high walles, gates and barres, beside vnwalled townes a great many. Deuteronomy 3:5 (KJV)
In this verse Moses is recounting the cities that were taken during the Israelite conquest of the region of Bashan, the land of King Og. The narrative follows earlier reminders of Israel’s victories over Sihon, king of the Amorites, and sets the stage for the final battles against Og. The verse records that the cities were fenced, mentioning high walls, gates, and bars, though it does not provide further detail about their fortifications beyond this brief description.
The broader context (Deuteronomy 3:1‑2) shows that God enabled the Israelites to overcome these strongholds despite their formidable defenses. Their success fulfilled the promise God had made to give the Israelites the land of Canaan (cf. Deuteronomy 1:8). The passage therefore highlights God’s faithfulness in keeping His word and providing assistance to His people.
For believers today the passage offers several clear lessons. First, it calls us to trust in God’s promises. Just as the Israelites witnessed God’s fulfillment of the promise to give them the land, we can have confidence that God will honor the commitments He makes to us. Second, the fortified cities symbolize the obstacles and challenges we encounter in life. The Israelites’ victory was not achieved by their own strength but by reliance on God’s power; likewise, we are reminded to depend on divine strength rather than our own abilities. Third, the presence of both fortified and unwalled towns illustrates that challenges vary in intensity, yet we are called to persevere through all levels of opposition, trusting in God’s guidance and provision.
In conclusion, Deuteronomy 3:5 records the capture of cities that were fenced with high walls, gates, and bars, underscoring God’s faithful assistance in the Israelites’ conquest. The passage encourages believers to trust God’s promises, rely on His strength, and persevere amid the varied obstacles of the spiritual journey.
