Deuteronomy 3:10

KJV

All the cities of the plain, and all Gilead, and all Bashan, unto Salchah and Edrei, cities of the kingdom of Og in Bashan.

KJV (with Strong's)

All the cities {H5892} of the plain {H4334}, and all Gilead {H1568}, and all Bashan {H1316}, unto Salchah {H5548} and Edrei {H154}, cities {H5892} of the kingdom {H4467} of Og {H5747} in Bashan {H1316}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"all the cities of the plain, all Gil'ad and all Bashan, as far as Salkhah and Edre'i, cities of the kingdom of 'Og in Bashan."

Berean Standard Bible

all the cities of the plateau, all of Gilead, and all of Bashan as far as the cities of Salecah and Edrei in the kingdom of Og.

American Standard Version

all the cities of the plain, and all Gilead, and all Bashan, unto Salecah and Edrei, cities of the kingdom of Og in Bashan.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 3:10 meticulously catalogues the vast territory conquered from King Og of Bashan, encompassing the fertile plains, the mountainous region of Gilead, and the rich lands of Bashan, stretching from Salchah to Edrei. This verse serves as a precise geographical summary within Moses' recount of Israel's decisive victories east of the Jordan, underscoring God's unwavering faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises and demonstrating His formidable power in securing the land for His people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within Moses' final address to the Israelites on the plains of Moab, just before they enter the Promised Land. Chapters 2 and 3 of Deuteronomy detail the wilderness wanderings and, crucially, the recent, divinely-empowered victories over the Amorite King Sihon and the Bashanite King Og. Following the account of Og's defeat in [Deuteronomy 3:1-9](/deuteronomy/3-1 "Deuteronomy 3:1-9 - Defeat of Og"), verse 10 provides a concise geographical summary of the extent of the conquered territory. This summary serves to emphasize the totality of the conquest and to prepare the ground for the subsequent discussion of the land's distribution among the Transjordanian tribes in [Deuteronomy 3:12-17](/deuteronomy/3-12 "Deuteronomy 3:12-17 - Allotment of Land East of Jordan"). It reinforces the narrative of God's active involvement in Israel's military success and the fulfillment of His promises.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Israelites stood on the threshold of Canaan, having spent forty years in the wilderness. The defeat of Sihon and Og, two powerful kings controlling strategically important and agriculturally rich territories east of the Jordan River, was a monumental achievement. King Og, specifically, was described as a remnant of the Rephaim, a race of giants ([Deuteronomy 3:11](/deuteronomy/3-11 "Deuteronomy 3:11 - Og's Iron Bedstead")), making his defeat an even greater testament to God's power. The "cities of the plain" refer to the fertile plateau east of the Jordan, while Gilead was known for its balm and rich pasturelands, and Bashan for its sturdy oaks, strong cattle, and exceptional fertility. These regions were highly desirable and strategically vital, controlling key trade routes. The meticulous listing of these regions and their boundaries (Salchah and Edrei) provided a clear, verifiable record of Israel's divinely granted inheritance, crucial for tribal land allotments and future claims.

* **Key Themes:** Deuteronomy 3:10 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Deuteronomy and the broader Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Faithfulness and Power**, showcasing God's unwavering commitment to His covenant with Abraham ([Genesis 15:18-21](/genesis/15-18 "Genesis 15:18-21 - God's Covenant with Abraham")) and His ability to overcome any obstacle for His people, as Moses reminds them that "the Lord your God is he who fights for you" ([Deuteronomy 3:22](/deuteronomy/3-22 "Deuteronomy 3:22 - The Lord Your God Fights for You")). Secondly, it exemplifies the **Fulfillment of Promise**, as the conquest of these vast lands directly actualized God's pledge to give Israel a land of their own. Thirdly, the detailed geographical enumeration serves as a **Historical Record and Legal Claim**, solidifying Israel's divinely sanctioned right to the conquered territories and providing a tangible reminder of God's mighty acts for future generations. This verse, therefore, is not merely a geographical note but a profound theological statement about God's character and His relationship with Israel.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Plain (Hebrew, _mishor'_):** This term refers to the level, fertile plateau region east of the Jordan River, often associated with the territory of Moab and Ammon. Its inclusion signifies the conquest of the productive, arable land that was often contested. The "cities of the plain" indicates the urban centers within this valuable agricultural zone, underscoring the comprehensive nature of the victory.
* **Gilead (Hebrew, _Gil'ad'_):** A significant mountainous and fertile region south of the Yarmuk River, known for its rich pasturelands and its famous "balm of Gilead" (Jeremiah 8:22). This area was initially part of Sihon's kingdom but is here mentioned alongside Bashan, indicating that the full Transjordanian conquest included both the southern (Gilead) and northern (Bashan) regions.
* **Bashan (Hebrew, _Bashan'_):** The northernmost and arguably the most fertile region of the Transjordan, renowned for its sturdy oak trees, strong cattle, and rich agricultural produce. It was the primary domain of King Og and was considered a formidable stronghold. Its inclusion here emphasizes the extent and value of the territory Israel acquired.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"All the cities of the plain":** This phrase denotes the complete subjugation of the urban centers located within the flat, fertile plateau east of the Jordan River. It signifies that Israel's dominion extended beyond mere open land to include the strategic and populated areas, indicating a thorough and comprehensive conquest.
* **"and all Gilead":** This clause specifies the inclusion of the entire region of Gilead in the conquered territory. Gilead, known for its rugged terrain and rich resources, was a significant acquisition, adding a substantial portion of land to Israel's inheritance. Its mention alongside Bashan highlights the broad sweep of the victory across the Transjordan.
* **"and all Bashan":** This part of the verse emphasizes the conquest of the entirety of Bashan, the northern kingdom of Og. Bashan's reputation for fertility and the formidable nature of its king make its total acquisition a powerful testament to God's might and Israel's success. The repetition of "all" underscores the completeness of the victory.
* **"unto Salchah and Edrei":** These two cities serve as geographical markers, defining the boundaries of the conquered territory. Edrei was the site of the decisive battle where Og was defeated ([Deuteronomy 3:1](/deuteronomy/3-1 "Deuteronomy 3:1 - Battle at Edrei")), while Salchah (modern Salkhad) was a significant city at the easternmost frontier of Og's kingdom, often associated with the Hauran region. Together, they delineate the full extent of the captured land.
* **"cities of the kingdom of Og in Bashan":** This concluding phrase explicitly identifies the defeated king and his dominion, reinforcing that the detailed list of regions constitutes the former territory of King Og. It firmly links the geographical description to the specific historical event of Og's defeat, attributing the vast conquest to the victory over this particular formidable adversary.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 3:10 employs several literary devices to convey its message effectively. **Enumeration** and **Cataloging** are prominent, as the verse lists specific geographical regions ("cities of the plain," "Gilead," "Bashan") and boundary markers ("Salchah and Edrei"). This detailed listing serves to emphasize the vastness and completeness of the conquered territory, providing a concrete and verifiable record of the divine gift of land. The repeated use of "all" ("all the cities," "all Gilead," "all Bashan") functions as **Repetition for Emphasis**, underscoring the comprehensive nature of the conquest—nothing was left unconquered within Og's domain. Furthermore, the mention of "Salchah and Edrei" acts as a **Merism**, where two extreme points are named to represent the entire expanse between them, effectively defining the full breadth of Og's kingdom. This **Geographical Specificity** lends credibility to Moses' account and provides a precise historical and legal record for the Israelites, reinforcing the tangible fulfillment of God's promises.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 3:10 is far more than a mere geographical listing; it is a profound theological statement about God's unwavering faithfulness and omnipotent power. The conquest of such a vast and formidable territory, belonging to a king like Og who was a giant of the Rephaim, stands as undeniable proof that God fights for His people and fulfills His covenant promises. This victory over seemingly insurmountable odds serves as a foundational narrative for Israel's identity, reminding them that their inheritance is a divine gift, not a result of their own strength. It reinforces the theme that God is actively involved in the affairs of His people, clearing the way for their destiny and providing for their needs in tangible ways. This historical account becomes a theological anchor, encouraging future generations to trust in God's ability to overcome any "giants" in their path.

* [Numbers 21:33-35](/numbers/21-33 "Numbers 21:33-35 - Defeat of Og")
* [Joshua 12:4-5](/joshua/12-4 "Joshua 12:4-5 - Summary of Og's Kingdom")
* [Psalm 135:10-12](/psalms/135-10 "Psalm 135:10-12 - God's Defeat of Kings and Granting of Land")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 3:10, though detailing an ancient military conquest, offers timeless principles for contemporary believers. It is a powerful reminder that God is faithful to His promises and possesses the power to overcome any obstacle, no matter how formidable. Just as He empowered Israel to conquer the vast kingdom of Og, He is able to equip us to face the "giants" in our own lives—whether they be spiritual strongholds, overwhelming challenges, or personal weaknesses. This verse calls us to remember God's past victories, both in biblical history and in our personal experiences, as a source of confidence and hope. When we feel overwhelmed by the scale of our challenges, we can look to this account and be assured that the God who delivered the entire kingdom of Bashan into Israel's hands is more than capable of delivering us. It encourages us to trust in His active presence and power, knowing that our inheritance in Christ is secured by His ultimate victory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does remembering God's past faithfulness, as demonstrated in this verse, strengthen your faith in current challenges?**
* **What "giants" or seemingly insurmountable obstacles are you facing, and how can the account of Og's defeat encourage you?**
* **In what ways can you actively acknowledge and celebrate God's past victories in your own life?**

### FAQ
**Why is such a detailed geographical list important in this verse?**

Answer: The detailed geographical list in Deuteronomy 3:10 serves several crucial purposes. Firstly, it provides concrete evidence of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promise to give Abraham's descendants a land of their own. The specificity verifies the extent of the inheritance. Secondly, it acted as a historical and legal record for the Israelites, essential for the subsequent tribal land allotments east of the Jordan. It clearly defined the boundaries of the land they had conquered and now possessed. Thirdly, the vastness of the territory, especially from a formidable king like Og, emphasizes the immense power of God at work on Israel's behalf. It wasn't a small skirmish, but a comprehensive conquest of a significant region, demonstrating that God was truly fighting for them.

**Who was King Og, and why was his defeat particularly significant?**

Answer: King Og was the king of Bashan, a powerful and formidable ruler. He is notably described in [Deuteronomy 3:11](/deuteronomy/3-11 "Deuteronomy 3:11 - Og's Iron Bedstead") as one of the last of the Rephaim, a race of giants. His iron bedstead, measuring over thirteen feet long, was preserved as a testament to his immense stature. His defeat was particularly significant because it demonstrated God's ability to overcome even the most physically imposing and seemingly invincible human adversaries. For the Israelites, facing the challenges of conquering Canaan, Og's defeat was a powerful object lesson that no enemy, no matter how great or fearsome, could stand against the Lord. It instilled confidence in God's power to clear the way for their inheritance and removed a major obstacle to their settlement in the Transjordan.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 3:10, with its detailed account of the vast land conquered and inherited by Israel, finds its ultimate and spiritual fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The physical inheritance of the Promised Land, secured through divine power and the defeat of formidable enemies like Og, foreshadows the far greater spiritual inheritance granted to believers through Christ's victory over sin, death, and the powers of darkness. Just as Israel received a tangible kingdom, believers in Christ receive "every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places" ([Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Ephesians 1:3 - Blessed with Every Spiritual Blessing")) and an "inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading" ([1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Imperishable Inheritance")). Jesus is the ultimate conqueror, not merely of earthly kings, but of the spiritual "giants" that enslave humanity. Through His death and resurrection, He "disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him" ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). The rest and security Israel found in their land point to the true Sabbath rest found in Christ ([Hebrews 4:9-10](/hebrews/4-9 "Hebrews 4:9-10 - The Sabbath Rest for God's People")), and the earthly kingdom of Og's Bashan gives way to the eternal kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ ([Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Becomes the Kingdom of Our Lord")). Thus, Deuteronomy 3:10, while historically significant, ultimately serves as a shadow pointing to the comprehensive and eternal victory and inheritance secured for us by the Lamb of 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

Joshua 13:31

And half Gilead, and Ashtaroth, and Edrei, cities of the kingdom of Og in Bashan, [were pertaining] unto the children of Machir the son of Manasseh, [even] to the one half of the children of Machir by their families.

Joshua 13:11

And Gilead, and the border of the Geshurites and Maachathites, and all mount Hermon, and all Bashan unto Salcah;

Joshua 13:12

All the kingdom of Og in Bashan, which reigned in Ashtaroth and in Edrei, who remained of the remnant of the giants: for these did Moses smite, and cast them out.

Numbers 21:33

And they turned and went up by the way of Bashan: and Og the king of Bashan went out against them, he, and all his people, to the battle at Edrei.

Joshua 12:4

And the coast of Og king of Bashan, [which was] of the remnant of the giants, that dwelt at Ashtaroth and at Edrei,

Joshua 12:5

And reigned in mount Hermon, and in Salcah, and in all Bashan, unto the border of the Geshurites and the Maachathites, and half Gilead, the border of Sihon king of Heshbon.

Deuteronomy 4:49

And all the plain on this side Jordan eastward, even unto the sea of the plain, under the springs of Pisgah.