Psalms 135:11

Sihon king of the Amorites, and Og king of Bashan, and all the kingdoms of Canaan:

Psalms 135:11 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 135 is a hymn of praise that celebrates the Lord’s mighty acts and His superiority over the gods of the nations. This verse belongs to a section that recounts God’s judgments and deliverance for Israel, specifically recalling the defeat of Sihon, king of the Amorites, and Og, king of Bashan, along with all the kingdoms of Canaan.

Meaning

Sihon ruled the Amorites from Heshbon, east of the Jordan River. He had previously conquered the king of Moab, but when Israel asked to pass peacefully through his land, he refused and attacked. Under Moses’ leadership, Israel defeated him and took his territory. Og ruled Bashan, a region east of the Jordan known for its rich pastures and cattle, from the city of Ashtaroth. These two kings were the most powerful of the Amorite rulers east of the Jordan, and their defeat was a decisive demonstration of God’s power. The phrase “all the kingdoms of Canaan” points to the thirty-one kings conquered under Joshua’s leadership, showing that the psalmist is summarizing a long history of God’s victories on behalf of His people.

Biblical connections

The defeat of Sihon and Og is recorded in Numbers 21:21-35, and it is later recalled in other psalms as a sign of God’s enduring faithfulness. By naming these specific kings, the psalmist grounds praise in real history, reminding Israel that God keeps His promises and overcomes mighty rulers.

Application

These kings and kingdoms represent the obstacles that God’s people face on their journey of faith. They can be physical enemies, but they also picture spiritual battles, temptations, and challenges in our walk with God. The psalmist does not focus on the power of the enemies, but on the Lord’s supremacy over them. When we face opposition, personal struggles, or pressures that seem overwhelming, this verse encourages us to trust in God’s sovereignty and power. Just as He delivered Israel from Sihon, Og, and the Canaanite kings, He is faithful to deliver us. Victory belongs to God, and we can find strength and assurance in Him.

Reflection

God’s past faithfulness is a firm foundation for present trust. The same Lord who defeated the mightiest kings of the Amorites and the kingdoms of Canaan has not changed. We can praise Him confidently, knowing that no obstacle stands beyond His power.