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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Numbers 21:21–35. His four-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
We have here an account of the victories obtained by Israel over Sihon and Og, which must be distinctly considered, not only because they are here distinctly related, but because long afterwards the memorial of them is distinctly celebrated, and they are severally assigned as instances of everlasting mercy. He slew Sihon king of the Amorites, for his mercy endureth for ever, and Og the king of Bashan, for his mercy endureth for ever, Psa 136:19, Psa 136:20.
I.Israel sent a peaceable message to Sihon king of the Amorites (Num 21:21), but received an unpeaceable return, worse than that of the Edomites to the like message, Num 20:18, Num 20:20. For the Edomites only refused them a passage, and stood upon their own defence to keep them out; but Sihon went out with his forces against Israel in the wilderness, out of his own borders, without any provocation given him (Num 21:23), and so ran himself upon his own ruin. Jephtha intimates that he was prompted by his politics to do this (Jdg 11:20), Sihon trusted not Israel to pass through his coast; but his politics deceived him, for Moses says, God hardened his spirit and made his heart obstinate, that he might deliver him into the hand of Israel, Deu 2:30. The enemies of God's church are often infatuated in those very counsels which they think most wisely taken. Sihon's army was routed, and not only so, but all his country came into the possession of Israel, Num 21:24, Num 21:25. This seizure is justified,
1.Against the Amorites themselves, for they were the aggressors, and provoked the Israelites to battle; and yet, perhaps, that would not have been sufficient to entitle Israel to their land, but that God himself, the King of nations, the Lord of the whole earth, had given them a grant of it. The Amorites formed one of the devoted nations whose land God had promised to Abraham and his seed, which promise should be performed when the iniquity of the Amorites should be full, Gen 15:16. Jephtha insists upon this grant as their title, Jdg 11:23, Jdg 11:24. The victory which God gave them over the Amorites put them in possession, and then, the promise made to their fathers having given them a right, by virtue of that they kept possession.
2.Against the Moabites, who had formerly been the lords-proprietors of this country. If they should ever lay claim to it, and should plead that God himself had provided that none of their land should be given to Israel for a possession (Deu 2:9), Moses here furnishes posterity with a replication to their plea, and Jephtha makes use of it against the Amorites 260 years afterwards, when Israel's title to this country was questioned.
(1.)The justification itself is that though it was true this country had belonged to the Moabites, yet the Amorites had taken it from them some time before, and were now in full and quiet possession of it, Num 21:26. The Israelites did not take it out of the hands of the Moabites, they had before lost it to the Amorites, and were constrained to give up their pretensions to it; and, when Israel had taken it from the Amorites, they were under no obligation to restore it to the Moabites, whose title to it was long since extinguished. See here the uncertainty of worldly possessions, how often they change their owners, and how soon we may be deprived of them, even when we think ourselves most sure of them; they make themselves wings. It is our wisdom therefore to secure the good part which cannot be taken away from us. See also the wisdom of the divine Providence and its perfect foresight, by which preparation is made long before for the accomplishment of all God's purposes in their season. This country being designed in due time for Israel, it is beforehand put into the hand of the Amorites, who little think that they have it but as trustees till Israel come of age, and then must surrender it. We understand not the vast reaches of Providence, but known unto God are all his works, as appears in this instance, that he set the bounds of the people according to the number of the children of Israel, Deu 32:8. All that land which he intended for his chosen people he put into the possession of the devoted nations, that were to be driven out.
(2.)For proof of the allegation, he refers to the authentic records of the country, for so their proverbs or songs were, one of which he quotes some passages out of (Num 21:27-30), which sufficiently proves what is vouched for, namely,
[1.]That such and such places that are here named, though they had been in the possession of the Moabites, had by right of war become the dominion of Sihon king of the Amorites. Heshbon had become his city, and he obtained such a quiet possession of it that it was built and prepared for him (Num 21:27), and the country to Dibon and Nophah was likewise subdued, and annexed to the kingdom of the Amorites, Num 21:30,
[2.]That the Moabites were utterly disabled ever to regain the possession. Even Ar of Moab, though not taken or attempted by Sihon, but still remaining the metropolis of Moab, yet was so wasted by this loss that is would never be able to make head, Num 21:28. The Moabites were undone, and even Chemosh their god had given them up, as unable to rescue them out of the hands of Sihon, Num 21:29. By all this it appears that the Moabites' claim to this country was barred for ever. There may be a further reason for inserting this Amorite poem, namely, to show that the triumphing of the wicked is short. Those that had conquered the Moabites, and insulted over them, were now themselves conquered and insulted over by the Israel of God. It is very probable that the same Sihon, king of the Amorites, that had got this country from the Moabites, now lost it to the Israelites; for, though it is said to be taken from a former king of Moab (Num 21:26), yet not by a former king of the Amorites; and then it shows how sometimes justice makes men to see the loss of that which they got by violence, and were puffed up with the gain of. They are exalted but for a little while, Job 24:24.
II.Og king of Bashan, instead of being warned by the fate of his neighbours to make peace with Israel, is instigated by it to make war with them, which proves in like manner to be his destruction. Og was also an Amorite, and therefore perhaps thought himself better able to deal with Israel than his neighbours were, and more likely to prevail, because of his own gigantic strength and stature, which Moses takes notice of, Deu 3:11, where he gives a more full account of this story. Here observe,
1.That the Amorite begins the war (Num 21:33): He went out to battle against Israel. His country was very rich and pleasant. Bashan was famous for the best timber (witness the oaks of Bashan), and the best breed of cattle, witness the bulls and kine of Bashan, and the lambs and rams of that country, which are celebrated, Deu 32:14. Wicked men do their utmost to secure themselves and their possessions against the judgments of God, but all in vain, when their day comes, on which they must fall.
2.That God interests himself in the cause, bids Israel not to fear this threatening force, and promises a complete victory: "I have delivered him into thy hand (Num 21:34); the thing is as good as done already, it is all thy own, enter and take possession." Giants are but worms before God's power.
3.That Israel is more than a conqueror, not only routs the enemies' army, but gains the enemies' country, which afterwards was part of the inheritance of the two tribes and a half that were first seated on the other side Jordan. God gave Israel these successes, while Moses was yet with them, both for his comfort (that he might see the beginning of that glorious work, which he must not live to see the finishing of) and for the encouragement of the people in the war of Canaan under Joshua. Though this was to them in comparison but as the day of small things, yet it was an earnest of great things.
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Summary
Numbers 21:35 records the decisive and complete victory of the Israelites over King Og of Bashan, a formidable ruler whose kingdom lay east of the Jordan River. This verse marks the total annihilation of Og, his family, and his people, ensuring no survivors, and culminates in Israel's successful acquisition and permanent possession of his land. This triumph, divinely ordained and enabled, represents a significant step in the fulfillment of God's covenant promise to grant Israel territory and secure their path towards the Promised Land, demonstrating His unwavering faithfulness and power.
Context
Literary Context
Numbers 21:35 serves as the climactic conclusion to the narrative of Israel's second major military engagement in the Transjordan region, immediately following their equally decisive victory over Sihon, King of the Amorites, detailed in Numbers 21:21-26. As the Israelites continued their divinely guided journey towards the Promised Land, King Og of Bashan, without any provocation from Israel, chose to confront them in battle at Edrei. The preceding verse, Numbers 21:34, is foundational, as it records God's explicit command to Moses not to fear Og, promising to deliver him and his entire kingdom into Israel's hand. This divine assurance sets the stage for the swift and total victory described in verse 35, highlighting God's faithfulness and active participation in Israel's conquest. The narrative then transitions to the plains of Moab, leading into the significant account of Balaam and the subsequent preparations for entering Canaan.
Historical & Cultural Context
The victory over King Og occurred as the Israelites were nearing the end of their forty-year wilderness wandering, strategically positioned to enter the Promised Land from the east. King Og was a legendary figure, famously described in Deuteronomy 3:11 as the last of the Rephaim, a race of giants, whose massive iron bedstead was a remarkable relic preserved as a testament to his formidable stature. His kingdom, Bashan, was a fertile and strategically important region known for its rich pastures, strong cities, and a reputation for producing strong, mighty warriors. The complete destruction of Og and his people, leaving "none left him alive," aligns with the ancient Near Eastern concept of herem, or "devotion to destruction." This practice, often applied to enemies in holy war, signified a total eradication as an act of divine judgment. While appearing harsh, this was part of God's plan to purify the land of its deeply entrenched idolatrous and morally corrupt inhabitants, preparing it for the establishment of His holy nation and preventing the spread of pagan practices among Israel.
Key Themes
The defeat of King Og powerfully reinforces several major theological and narrative themes central to the book of Numbers and the broader Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of Divine Victory and God's Faithfulness. The swift and comprehensive defeat of such a formidable ruler as Og underscores that this was not merely a human military triumph but a direct divine intervention, showcasing God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises to Israel, as promised in Deuteronomy 3:2. This victory also highlights the theme of Conquest and Possession, serving as a tangible fulfillment of God's long-standing promise to give the Israelites the land flowing with milk and honey. The phrase "and they possessed his land" marks the initial stages of Israel's territorial acquisition before crossing the Jordan, setting a precedent for the subsequent conquests of Canaan. Furthermore, the complete destruction of Og and his people aligns with the theme of Judgment on Wickedness, reflecting God's righteous judgment against the inhabitants of Canaan due to their extreme moral depravity and idolatry, as articulated in passages like Leviticus 18:24-25.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This verb (H5221) signifies a decisive and often destructive blow, indicating a complete military rout. In biblical contexts, nakah frequently implies divine agency or enablement behind the action, as seen here where God had already promised to deliver Og into Israel's hands. It conveys the totality and effectiveness of the Israelite assault, demonstrating God's power working through His people.
This noun (H8300) refers to one who escapes or remains after a catastrophe. The phrase "none left him alive" is a translation of a construction involving this word (along with H1115, biltîy, meaning "not," and H7604, shâʼar, meaning "to leave"). The emphasis is on the absolute and utter annihilation of Og's forces and people, meaning "not a survivor was left to him." This idiom in ancient Near Eastern conquest narratives and biblical accounts of holy war signifies a thorough and complete eradication, leaving no remnants or future threats.
This verb (H3423) means "to inherit, to take possession of, to dispossess." It implies not just a temporary occupation but a permanent and rightful acquisition of the land by driving out previous tenants. In the context of Israel's covenant with God, yarash underscores that their taking of the land was a fulfillment of divine promise, establishing their legitimate claim and permanent settlement in the territory east of the Jordan.
Verse Breakdown
"So they smote him, and his sons, and all his people"
This clause describes the comprehensive nature of the Israelite victory. The target of the assault was not merely King Og himself, but also his lineage ("his sons") and his entire populace ("all his people"). This signifies the complete dismantling of Og's kingdom, power structure, and potential for future resistance. It underscores the thoroughness of the military operation and the extent of the divine judgment executed through Israel, leaving no part of Og's dominion untouched.
"until there was none left him alive"
This phrase emphasizes the absolute totality of the destruction. It means that no one from Og's kingdom, including his family, soldiers, or civilians, survived the battle. This level of annihilation, while stark, is consistent with the concept of herem often associated with the conquest narratives, ensuring the eradication of a threat and the purification of the land from its idolatrous inhabitants, as commanded by God. It highlights the divine judgment upon a wicked people.
"and they possessed his land"
This final clause articulates the culmination and purpose of the military action. The defeat of Og and the annihilation of his people directly led to Israel's successful acquisition and permanent occupation of his territory. This act was a tangible fulfillment of God's long-standing promise to give Israel land, establishing their presence east of the Jordan River and setting the stage for the broader conquest of Canaan. It signifies the transition from military victory to territorial inheritance and the faithfulness of God to His covenant.
Literary Devices
Numbers 21:35 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message. The use of Hyperbole or Total Annihilation in the phrase "until there was none left him alive" emphasizes the completeness and decisiveness of the victory. While it might not imply the literal extinction of every single individual in the kingdom, it certainly communicates the utter defeat of Og's military and political power, leaving no organized resistance or future threat. This is typical of ancient Near Eastern conquest narratives and biblical accounts of divine judgment, aiming to convey the overwhelming nature of the triumph. The narrative also uses Foreshadowing, as this victory over a formidable enemy east of the Jordan foreshadows the greater, divinely enabled conquests that await Israel west of the Jordan, particularly the taking of Jericho and the broader Canaanite land. Furthermore, there is an Implied Divine Passive; although the verse states "they smote," the preceding verse (Numbers 21:34) makes it clear that God "delivered" Og into their hands, indicating that Israel's victory was not merely by their own strength but by divine enablement. This subtly reinforces the theme of God fighting for His people. Finally, the verse contributes to the Repetition of Theme concerning God's faithfulness in granting land, building upon earlier promises and the recent victory over Sihon.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Numbers 21:35 stands as a powerful testament to God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises and His active involvement in the history of His people. The complete and decisive victory over King Og, a seemingly insurmountable foe, underscores the principle that the battle belongs to the Lord. This event is not merely a military conquest but a divinely orchestrated act of judgment against the wickedness of the land's inhabitants and a significant step in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan to establish His holy nation in the promised territory. It demonstrates that when God commands, He also empowers, providing the means for His people to overcome obstacles and inherit their destiny. This victory served to build Israel's faith and confirm God's presence among them as they prepared for the greater challenges of conquering Canaan, reminding them that their success was contingent upon His power and presence.
Reflection and Application
The account of Israel's victory over King Og of Bashan in Numbers 21:35 offers profound lessons for believers today. Just as God delivered Og and his kingdom into Israel's hands, enabling them to overcome a seemingly insurmountable giant and possess his land, so too can we trust that God will empower us to overcome the "giants" and obstacles in our own lives. This narrative reminds us that our battles, whether spiritual, emotional, or circumstantial, are ultimately God's to fight. We are called to obey His commands and step forward in faith, knowing that His power is made perfect in our weakness. The complete annihilation of Og's kingdom also serves as a stark reminder of God's justice against wickedness and His ultimate plan to establish His righteous kingdom. This should inspire us to live in holiness, to stand against the spiritual forces of evil, and to trust in His sovereign plan for history, which includes both righteous judgment and the ultimate redemption of His people and creation. Our inheritance in Christ is secured by His decisive victory over all opposing powers.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was King Og specifically targeted for complete destruction?
King Og was targeted for complete destruction for several key reasons, demonstrating God's sovereign judgment and strategic plan for Israel. Firstly, he was a formidable and aggressive adversary who, without provocation, marched out to fight Israel, directly opposing God's chosen people on their journey to the Promised Land. Secondly, Og is identified in Deuteronomy 3:11 as the last of the Rephaim, a race of giants, making him a symbol of the formidable pagan powers that God intended to dispossess from the land. His destruction, therefore, served as a powerful demonstration of God's ability to overcome even the most intimidating foes. Lastly, his kingdom, Bashan, was part of the broader Canaanite territory whose inhabitants were marked for judgment due to their deep-seated idolatry and moral corruption, as God sought to purify the land for His holy nation. This act was part of God's divine judgment and His plan to clear the way for Israel's inheritance of the land.
How does this victory relate to Israel's overall journey to the Promised Land?
The victory over King Og of Bashan, immediately following the defeat of Sihon, King of the Amorites, was profoundly significant for Israel's overall journey to the Promised Land. These two victories secured the entire Transjordan region (east of the Jordan River), providing a crucial staging ground and initial territory for the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh, as detailed in Joshua 13:12. More importantly, these triumphs served as powerful affirmations of God's continued presence, faithfulness, and power with His people after decades of wilderness wandering. They bolstered Israel's faith and confidence in God's ability to fulfill His promises, preparing them psychologically and militarily for the greater challenges of crossing the Jordan River and conquering the central and western parts of Canaan. It demonstrated that God was indeed fighting for them and would deliver the land into their hands, fulfilling His ancient covenant with Abraham.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
The decisive victory of Israel over King Og in Numbers 21:35, where a formidable enemy is utterly defeated and his land possessed, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate and complete triumph of Jesus Christ. Just as Og represented a seemingly insurmountable obstacle to Israel's inheritance, so too did sin, death, and the spiritual powers of darkness stand as insurmountable foes to humanity's true inheritance. Yet, Christ, the true King, engaged these enemies not with physical weaponry but through His sacrificial death and glorious resurrection. On the cross, He "disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross" (Colossians 2:15). Through His victory, Jesus has not only "smote" the dominion of sin and death but has also secured for His people a spiritual inheritance, a "land" of eternal life and fellowship with God, which no enemy can take away (Ephesians 1:11). He is the true "King of kings and Lord of lords" (Revelation 19:16), who will ultimately establish His eternal kingdom, where all enemies will be put under His feet (1 Corinthians 15:25), and His people will possess the new heavens and new earth, a land of perfect righteousness and peace (Revelation 21:1-4).