Deuteronomy 2:27

KJV

Let me pass through thy land: I will go along by the high way, I will neither turn unto the right hand nor to the left.

KJV (with Strong's)

Let me pass {H5674} through thy land {H776}: I will go {H3212} along by the high way {H1870}{H1870}, I will neither turn {H5493} unto the right hand {H3225} nor to the left {H8040}.

Complete Jewish Bible

'Let me pass through your land. I will keep to the road, turning neither right nor left.

Berean Standard Bible

“Let us pass through your land; we will stay on the main road. We will not turn to the right or to the left.

American Standard Version

Let me pass through thy land: I will go along by the highway, I will turn neither unto the right hand nor to the left.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 2:27 records Moses' diplomatic overture to King Sihon of the Amorites, requesting peaceful passage for the Israelites through his territory. This plea, delivered as Israel approached the Promised Land, emphasizes their sincere intention to travel strictly along the established "King's Highway" without deviating, thereby assuring Sihon of their non-aggressive posture and respect for his sovereign boundaries. It highlights Israel's initial desire for a peaceful resolution, even as the narrative foreshadows the eventual conflict.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within Moses' second major discourse in the book of Deuteronomy, a retrospective recounting of Israel's forty-year wilderness journey. Following their successful navigation around Edom and Moab, who had denied them passage (as detailed in [Deuteronomy 2:1-25](/deuteronomy/2-1-25 "Deuteronomy 2:1-25 - Israel's Journey Around Edom and Moab")), Moses now describes sending messengers to King Sihon of Heshbon with a similar, carefully worded request. This plea serves as a crucial narrative pivot, setting the stage for the first major military confrontation and conquest recounted in Deuteronomy, demonstrating God's sovereign hand in clearing the way for His people. The detailed recounting of these diplomatic efforts underscores Israel's adherence to divine instruction to avoid conflict where possible.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The "high way" mentioned in the verse refers to the ancient and strategically vital trade route known as the King's Highway (Hebrew: *derekh ha-melekh*). This major north-south artery traversed the Transjordan plateau, connecting Egypt to Mesopotamia. For any nation, controlling or granting passage along such a route was a significant geopolitical matter. The request for passage was a common practice in the ancient Near East, often accompanied by assurances of non-aggression, as seen in Moses' promise to stay on the main road and avoid infringing on private lands or resources. King Sihon ruled the Amorite kingdom from Heshbon, a powerful city-state that had recently expanded its territory by conquering land from Moab ([Numbers 21:26](/numbers/21-26 "Numbers 21:26 - Sihon's Conquest of Heshbon")), making him a formidable and cautious ruler.

* **Key Themes:** The verse powerfully articulates several key themes. Firstly, it underscores Israel's **peaceful intent and non-aggression**, demonstrating a commitment to diplomacy before resorting to conflict, aligning with broader biblical principles of seeking peace ([Romans 12:18](/romans/12-18 "Romans 12:18 - Live Peaceably with All")). Secondly, it highlights **respect for sovereignty and boundaries**, as Israel explicitly sought permission and promised to adhere to the public road, acknowledging Sihon's territorial rights. This reflects a divine order that respects the established boundaries of nations. Thirdly, the commitment to "neither turn unto the right hand nor to the left" signifies **discipline and focused adherence** to a declared path. This idiom is a recurring motif in the Old Testament, symbolizing unwavering obedience to God's commands and staying true to His appointed way, as seen in Moses' later exhortation to Israel in [Deuteronomy 5:32](/deuteronomy/5-32 "Deuteronomy 5:32 - Do Not Turn Aside from God's Commands") and Joshua's instructions in [Joshua 1:7](/joshua/1-7 "Joshua 1:7 - Do Not Turn from the Law").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Pass (Hebrew, _ʻâbar'_):** from a primitive root; to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in copulation); alienate, alter, [idiom] at all, beyond, bring (over, through), carry over, (over-) come (on, over), conduct (over), convey over, current, deliver, do away, enter, escape, fail, gender, get over, (make) go (away, beyond, by, forth, his way, in, on, over, through), have away (more), lay, meddle, overrun, make partition, (cause to, give, make to, over) pass(-age, along, away, beyond, by, -enger, on, out, over, through), (cause to, make) [phrase] proclaim(-amation), perish, provoke to anger, put away, rage, [phrase] raiser of taxes, remove, send over, set apart, [phrase] shave, cause to (make) sound, [idiom] speedily, [idiom] sweet smelling, take (away), (make to) transgress(-or), translate, turn away, (way-) faring man, be wrath.
* In Deuteronomy 2:27, `ʻâbar` signifies a request for peaceful transit, emphasizing the Israelites' desire to simply move *through* Sihon's territory without establishing a permanent presence or engaging in conflict. It highlights their intention for a temporary, non-invasive passage.

* **Way (Hebrew, _derek'_):** from דָּרַךְ; a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb; along, away, because of, [phrase] by, conversation, custom, (east-) ward, journey, manner, passenger, through, toward, (high-) (path-) way(-side), whither(-soever).
* Here, `derek` refers specifically to the "King's Highway" (derekh ha-melekh), a well-established public road. Moses' commitment to this `derek` indicates Israel's intention to adhere strictly to the recognized thoroughfare, avoiding private lands and respecting the sovereignty of Sihon's kingdom. It denotes a defined, non-deviating route.

* **Turn (Hebrew, _çûwr'_):** or שׂוּר; (Hosea 9:12), a primitive root; to turn off (literal or figurative); be(-head), bring, call back, decline, depart, eschew, get (you), go (aside), [idiom] grievous, lay away (by), leave undone, be past, pluck away, put (away, down), rebel, remove (to and fro), revolt, [idiom] be sour, take (away, off), turn (aside, away, in), withdraw, be without.
* The verb `çûwr` is crucial in the phrase "I will neither turn unto the right hand nor to the left." It conveys the idea of deviating or turning aside from a set path. Moses' pledge not to `çûwr` emphasizes Israel's disciplined resolve to maintain a straight course, assuring Sihon of their non-aggressive intentions and their commitment to avoid any actions that could be perceived as hostile or encroaching.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Let me pass through thy land":** This opening clause represents Moses' direct and diplomatic request to King Sihon. It is a formal appeal for permission, acknowledging Sihon's authority and sovereignty over his territory. The tone is one of respectful petition, seeking a peaceful and authorized transit rather than a forceful invasion.
* **"I will go along by the high way":** This clause specifies the exact route Israel intends to take. By committing to the "King's Highway," Moses assures Sihon that Israel will stick to the well-defined, public thoroughfare, avoiding any private lands, cultivated fields, or populated areas that might be sensitive or provoke conflict. It is a concrete demonstration of their stated peaceful intentions.
* **"I will neither turn unto the right hand nor to the left":** This concluding clause reinforces the previous assurance with a powerful idiom. It emphasizes Israel's unwavering commitment to their declared path, promising absolute non-deviation. This signifies that they would not engage in any plundering, raiding, or territorial encroachment. It is a pledge of disciplined, focused movement, leaving no room for suspicion of ulterior motives or opportunistic expansion.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 2:27 primarily employs **Plea/Supplication** as Moses directly addresses King Sihon with a formal request. This highlights the diplomatic and respectful approach Israel initially takes. The phrase "neither turn unto the right hand nor to the left" is a prominent **Idiom**, a common Hebrew expression signifying strict adherence and unwavering focus. Its use here serves to powerfully convey Israel's commitment to non-aggression and their disciplined movement. Furthermore, the entire request carries **Symbolism**, representing Israel's journey not just geographically, but also spiritually. Their desire to stay on the "high way" and not deviate can be seen as a metaphor for their commitment to God's path and commands, even when facing human resistance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 2:27 reveals a profound theological tension between human agency and divine sovereignty. While Israel, under divine guidance, genuinely sought peaceful passage, their efforts were ultimately thwarted by King Sihon's hardened heart, which the text later attributes to God's purpose to deliver Sihon into Israel's hand ([Deuteronomy 2:30](/deuteronomy/2-30 "Deuteronomy 2:30 - God Hardened Sihon's Heart")). This demonstrates that even when God's people act with integrity and seek peace, circumstances may unfold according to a larger divine plan that involves conflict. The verse also underscores the importance of clear communication and integrity in our dealings, reflecting God's character of truthfulness. It reminds us that while we are called to pursue peace and respect boundaries, God's ultimate purposes for His people will prevail, sometimes requiring a path different from our initial peaceful intentions.

* [Proverbs 3:5-6](/proverbs/3-5-6 "Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the Lord with All Your Heart")
* [Romans 12:18](/romans/12-18 "Romans 12:18 - Live Peaceably with All")
* [Psalm 119:105](/psalm/119-105 "Psalm 119:105 - Your Word is a Lamp Unto My Feet")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 2:27 offers timeless principles for navigating life's journey, both personally and communally. It calls us to cultivate integrity in our interactions, ensuring our words are clear, our intentions transparent, and our commitments reliable. Just as Israel sought to respect Sihon's territorial boundaries, we are challenged to honor the boundaries of others—whether in relationships, personal space, or professional dealings—demonstrating humility and respect rather than presumption or encroachment. Most profoundly, the imagery of not turning "to the right hand nor to the left" serves as a powerful spiritual metaphor for our walk with God. It encourages a disciplined, focused adherence to God's revealed will, avoiding the myriad distractions, temptations, or competing desires that seek to pull us off the "highway" of His commands and purposes. Our spiritual journey demands unwavering commitment and a clear-eyed pursuit of Christ, resisting the urge to deviate from the path He has laid out for us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Israel's initial peaceful approach challenge our default reactions to perceived obstacles or opposition in our own lives?**
* **In what areas of your life are you tempted to "turn to the right hand or to the left" from God's clear path or commands?**
* **How can we better demonstrate integrity and respect for others' boundaries in our daily interactions, both within the church and in the wider world?**

### FAQ

**Why did Sihon refuse Israel's peaceful request, and what was the outcome?**

Answer: Despite Israel's sincere and peaceful overture in [Deuteronomy 2:27](/deuteronomy/2-27 "Deuteronomy 2:27 - Moses' Request to Sihon"), King Sihon of Heshbon refused passage. The biblical text explicitly states that "the Lord your God hardened his spirit and made his heart obstinate, that he might give him into your hand" ([Deuteronomy 2:30](/deuteronomy/2-30 "Deuteronomy 2:30 - God Hardened Sihon's Heart")). This indicates a divine purpose behind Sihon's refusal; God intended to deliver Sihon and his land into Israel's possession as part of their inheritance. Consequently, Sihon mustered his army and attacked Israel at Jahaz, but the Lord gave Israel victory, and they conquered all of Sihon's territory, from Aroer to the Jabbok River ([Deuteronomy 2:31-37](/deuteronomy/2-31-37 "Deuteronomy 2:31-37 - Israel Conquers Sihon")). This conquest was a significant step in Israel's journey towards the Promised Land.

**Is the "King's Highway" still relevant today?**

Answer: While not a modern highway in the contemporary sense, the ancient King's Highway remains historically and archaeologically significant. Its route, or remnants of it, can still be traced through modern-day Jordan. It was a crucial artery for trade and communication in the ancient Near East for millennia, connecting civilizations from Egypt to Mesopotamia. Today, modern roads often follow parts of its ancient course, and archaeological sites along its path continue to reveal insights into the history and cultures of the region, making it a point of interest for historians, archaeologists, and biblical scholars.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 2:27, with its depiction of Israel's journey and their commitment to a specific path, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment. Israel's wilderness wanderings and their ultimate destination in the Promised Land foreshadow the believer's spiritual pilgrimage towards the heavenly inheritance, a journey made possible only through Christ. Jesus Himself declares, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Me" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). He is the ultimate "high way" to God, the singular path of salvation and righteousness. Furthermore, the idiom "neither turn unto the right hand nor to the left" perfectly describes Christ's unwavering obedience to the Father's will. Unlike Israel, who often strayed, Jesus perfectly fulfilled the Father's commands, even to the point of death on a cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience to Death")). He never deviated from His mission, even when facing opposition and rejection, embodying the peaceful, non-aggressive posture of the "Lamb of God" ([Isaiah 53:7](/isaiah/53-7 "Isaiah 53:7 - He Was Oppressed and Afflicted"); [1 Peter 2:23](/1_peter/2-23 "1 Peter 2:23 - When He Was Reviled")). Ultimately, the "highway of holiness" prophesied by Isaiah ([Isaiah 35:8](/isaiah/35-8 "Isaiah 35:8 - The Highway of Holiness")) is paved by Christ's perfect life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection, inviting all who believe to walk a straight path to eternal life with God.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Judges 11:19

And Israel sent messengers unto Sihon king of the Amorites, the king of Heshbon; and Israel said unto him, Let us pass, we pray thee, through thy land into my place.

Numbers 21:21

¶ And Israel sent messengers unto Sihon king of the Amorites, saying,

Numbers 21:23

And Sihon would not suffer Israel to pass through his border: but Sihon gathered all his people together, and went out against Israel into the wilderness: and he came to Jahaz, and fought against Israel.

Deuteronomy 2:6

Ye shall buy meat of them for money, that ye may eat; and ye shall also buy water of them for money, that ye may drink.